Building Bridges Between Innovation, Industry, and Opportunity.
This year marks the 5th anniversary of the Hamilton–Niagara Bootcamp, a program proudly organized by Global Startups in partnership with the Niagara Economic Development Department and Invest Hamilton. Over the past five years, the Bootcamp has become a cornerstone initiative connecting international tech founders with Ontario’s thriving regional innovation corridors.
A Journey of Growth and Resilience
The first two years of the Bootcamp coincided with the global pandemic—a time when international travel was impossible. Despite the challenges, Global Startups quickly adapted, moving sessions online to ensure continuity. Yet, as many founders have shared, “it’s never the same as visiting the cities and innovation hubs in person.”
Since then, each edition has evolved to blend virtual preparation with immersive, on-the-ground experiences—allowing founders to see first-hand the business ecosystems, industrial strengths, and welcoming communities that make Hamilton and Niagara such strategic entry points for scaling into Canada and North America.
A Dynamic Program Across Three Cities
Every year, participating startups begin their journey at Global Startups’ headquarters in Toronto, where they take part in training sessions on market entry, investment readiness, and sales strategy. They also attend the Toronto Global Economic Forum, gaining valuable exposure and networking opportunities with industry leaders, investors, and policy makers.
From there, the cohort travels to Hamilton and Niagara, where they meet with local economic development teams, innovation hubs, and potential partners. The visits are designed to go beyond business matchmaking—immersing founders in the cultural and economic fabric of each city.
What Founders Say
Over the years, founders have shared powerful reflections about their experience:
“Apart from tourism, the city benefits from its agro industry. The Economic Development Office wants to leverage its serene surroundings to attract new businesses through innovation hubs and soft landing programs.”
“Hamilton is an old industrial town, and the vintage look throughout the city has its own attraction. It houses one of the top universities—McMaster—and Mohawk College. The innovation hubs and runway programs are very attractive for startup owners.”
“It was fantastic and very insightful for new business owners and potential business immigrants who came on an exploratory visit.”
“Niagara is a huge food-producing region in North America. It was very pleasing to see that the region’s sustainability policy is aimed at growing qualifications and competitiveness in this sector.”
“Hamilton was personally interesting because of its focus on technology, design, and large-scale production. The regional policy makes it easy for companies not only to start a business but to relocate with their teams and families.”
“It was a real pleasure to participate in this event, and the satisfaction has remained to this day! Thank you! – CoolMail Team”
These testimonials reflect the diversity of insights and industries represented in each Bootcamp—ranging from healthtech and agri-innovation to advanced manufacturing and AI.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we celebrate five years of success, we look forward to continuing to promote this vibrant economic region for companies that align with the growth priorities of Hamilton and Niagara. Each year, a limited number of startups are selected to participate free of charge, gaining access to unique opportunities to explore partnerships, investment, and market expansion.
Looking ahead to 2026, we’re planning new activities and collaborations to strengthen ties between Ontario and emerging economies worldwide. The Hamilton–Niagara Bootcamp will remain a launchpad for global founders ready to make their mark in Canada’s innovation ecosystem.
