What Canadian Tech Leaders Need to Know About Hiring in 2026

​Hiring in Canadian tech is entering a new phase.

​As we head into 2026, founders and leadership teams are navigating a very different environment than even a few years ago. Market conditions have tightened, expectations around efficiency are higher, AI is starting to change how teams think about roles and productivity, and the regulatory landscape in Canada continues to evolve.

​In this session, BrightIron's Rebecca Graham (Partner, head of HR services) will be joined by Artemis Canada's Kristina McDougall (Founder and Managing Partner) to focus specifically on what these shifts mean for Canadian tech startups. Together, they’ll unpack how current market forces are influencing talent availability and compensation, where AI is realistically augmenting — or replacing — certain roles, and what new or upcoming legislation tech employers need to factor into their hiring plans.

​This conversation is designed for founders, operators, and People leaders who want to approach hiring in 2026 with intention — balancing growth, cost, compliance, and long-term team health in an increasingly complex Canadian tech landscape.