Holidays are a great time to pause and reflect on the startup journey. This downtime can be used to plan, strategize, and prepare for the new year. As we wrap up this year, here are some of the top stories that made waves in the tech ecosystem. These stories capture the innovation, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped the landscape over the past year. From viral memes and funding milestones to groundbreaking startups and industry-shifting trends, here’s a look at the highlights that defined 2024.
12. Startup Meme of the Year
Which startup memes got the most views? Check out this one that highlights the Canadian tech ecosystem. Some recurring themes in the ecosystem include “Bronze Mentality,” “Slack Socks,” “Bagged Milk,” “Raising a Seed Round,” “SHRED,” and more.
11. TikTok Shuts Down Its Office in Canada
Every platform comes with its risks, but ultimately, it’s up to users to decide. With Canada’s economy facing challenges, retaining every job in the country is crucial. TikTok office shut down came in as a real disappointment to the ecosystem.
10. Canada’s Top 100 Startup Accelerators
What are some top startup programs to for founders in Canada? Check out the complete guide to startup programs in Canada.
9. Calgary Tech on the Rise
Two Calgary companies to keep on the radar would be: ZayZoon and Motiv. Both companies have gained significant traction in the last year.
8. Top Women-Led Startups at Collision Toronto
This story highlights the top women-led startups featured at this year’s Collision conference. Some standout names include Poly Careers, Part3, Toast, and many others.
7. Equivesto Reaches $100 Million in Raised Funds for Canadian Businesses
Startup funding in Canada is notoriously tough. It’s inspiring to see innovators bringing more support to small businesses and startups. Check out the full story here.
6. Top Real Estate Companies
What trends are shaping the real estate market? Key developments include the rise of Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and the growth of PropTech. Explore the list of companies driving these innovations, such as Bidmii, Kompas, and SingleKey.
5. 600-Pound Beaver in the Canadian Ecosystem
Mainstream media spun a story from the Elevate Conference, claiming Canadian founders lack ambition. The reality is that the ecosystem needs better support. This spark a massive reaction in the Canadian tech community. This viral opinion piece offers a different perspective.
4. Top AI Startups to Watch
AI continues to dominate the startup landscape, with more companies entering the space. In fact, a majority of this year’s batch from top accelerators like Y Combinator consisted of AI startups. Check out the complete list of AI startups to watch. Companies such as Gambit, Binoloop, and 409.ai are some to keep an eye on.
3. Top 16 HR Tech Companies on the Rise
The HR tech space is primed for more innovation in 2025. From payroll software companies such as Wagepoint to employee rewards platforms like Tenure, discover the top companies making significant strides in this field.
2. Top 50 Hottest Companies at Collision Conference Toronto
Collision in Toronto was absolutely epic as it concluded. The conference is moving to Vancouver for next year. Airfairness tops the list of the companies along with Bidmii, Maple, and more.
1. FoundersBeta’s Top 100 Companies to Watch
Earlier this year, FoundersBeta released its annual Top 100 Companies to Watch. The 2025 edition will be out soon. Founders or team members can nominate directly.
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