​Overview 

​Cloud has long been the fastest path for startups to build and scale. But as data-intensive workloads grow and cloud pricing models evolve, many founders are discovering that cloud spend can quickly shift from enabler to liability, impacting burn rate, margins, and long-term flexibility.

​Hosted at the Schwartz Reisman Innovation Campus in partnership with Telehouse Canada, this fireside discussion explores the new economics of cloud. Together, we’ll unpack how rising costs, usage-based pricing, AI-driven workloads, and growing expectations around data sovereignty are reshaping infrastructure decisions for early-stage startups  

​Drawing on Telehouse Canada’s experience at the intersection of cloud platforms, AI workloads, and data centre infrastructure, this session reframes infrastructure not just as a technical choice—but as a strategic business and trust decision. 

​Who Should Attend 

• ​Early-stage startup founders

• ​Student entrepreneurs building cloud-based or AI-enabled products 

• ​Members of the university incubator or accelerator community 

• ​Founders responsible for technology, cost, or infrastructure decisions  

​No deep cloud or AI expertise required. 

​Key Takeaways 

​You’ll leave with: 

• ​A clear understanding of why cloud spend, especially with AI-driven applications, can become a liability  

• ​Insight into how cloud economics impact burn rate, margins, and scalability  

• ​A founder-friendly breakdown of data centre taxonomy (hyperscale, colocation, enterprise) and why it matters  

• ​Clarity on cloud-only vs. hybrid infrastructure trade-offs  

• ​An understanding of how data residency and sovereignty considerations are shaping infrastructure strategy in Canada  

• ​Better questions to ask early so you can avoid costly infrastructure missteps 

​The session includes a live panel and Q&A, giving founders space to discuss their own cloud, AI, and infrastructure challenges  

​Speakers 

​Guest Speakers 

​Andy Fenton: Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Telehouse Canada

​Alexander Ngai: Director of Product and Strategy, Telehouse Canada 

​Moderated by 

​Gwen Yasinski: Senior Business Development Executive, Telehouse Canada 

​Event Details 

​Date: March 25, 2026  

​Time: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM  

​Location: Schwartz Reisman Innovation Campus, 108 College St., 7th Floor Winter Garden 

​Light lunch and refreshments provided. 

​Register

​Cloud decisions made early can shape your margins, flexibility, and growth for years to come. 

​If you’re building with cloud or AI, and want to ensure your infrastructure supports your scale rather than constrains it, secure your spot today. 

​Limited spots available. 

​Register now.