Jumpstart Your Startup

Investor Bootcamp & Pitch Competition

An immersive 1.5-day bootcamp designed to equip early-stage startups in rural Nova Scotia with the knowledge, tools, and investor connections needed to secure funding and scale their businesses.

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Jumpstart Your Startup is a collaborative initiative by the Centre for Entrepreneurship, Education, and Development (CEED), Foresight Canada, Volta, and Invest Nova Scotia. This program is designed to empower early-stage founders in Bridgewater, Truro, and the Valley with practical investment knowledge, hands-on pitch development, and exposure to investors.

Over 1.5 days, participants will engage in expert-led workshops and interactive training, culminating in a pitch competition where the winner will receive a cash prize and direct exposure to emerging regional angel investors in Bridgewater, Truro, and the Valley.

Mentorship and support are key aspects of this bootcamp—participants will receive 1:1 Executive-in-Residence (EIR) mentorship to prepare for their pitch, along with insights from a cleantech expert.

Why Jumpstart Your Startup?

This program is designed for early-stage startups from all industries—no prior investment experience required. Here's what you'll gain:

Essential Investment Knowledge

Learn the fundamentals of venture capital and angel investment to confidently engage investors.

Pitch Development

Refine your pitch with guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs and industry experts. 

Networking & Exposure

Connect with fellow founders, industry leaders, and angel investors actively building networks in Truro, The Valley, and Bridgewater.

Pitch Competition & Cash Prize

Compete for funding and gain valuable visibility among investors.

Mentorship & Support

Get insights for a cleantech expert & prepare for your pitch with 1:1 EIR mentorship.

Support for Rural Innovation

Strengthen Nova Scotia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and accelerate your business growth.

Dates and Locations

Jumpstart Your Startup will be hosted in two locations in Nova Scotia:

  • Truro, NS: March 21 - 22 (Truro Library)
  • Bridgewater, NS: March 28 - 29 (Best Western Plus Bridgewater Hotel)

The final pitch competition date and location will be determined based on participant feedback after the bootcamps.

Spaces are limited—apply now to secure your spot!

Apply Now

Our Partners

Jumpstart Your Startup is a collaborative initiative by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the Centre for Entrepreneurship, Education, and Development (CEED), Volta, Invest Nova Scotia, Foresight Canada, and regional angel networks.