WELCOME TO
YOUR STARTUP CANADA TOUR HOME BASE
Startup Canada is the national convener, voice, and champion for Canada’s entrepreneurs. Through programs, events, and resources, they connect entrepreneurs with the support they need to start and scale their businesses. The Startup Canada Tour will be visiting Mississauga on October 21, a full day of networking, expert-led sessions, and collaboration with founders, partners, and industry leaders from across the country.
We’re proud to welcome the Startup Canada Tour to Mississauga, a dynamic, diverse city where entrepreneurship, innovation, and community thrive. As founders, partners, and ecosystem leaders come together to spark ideas and make meaningful connections, Mississauga is more than just the host; it’s your launchpad for growth and collaboration.
From vibrant neighbourhoods and global cuisine to waterfront views and cultural landmarks, Mississauga offers the perfect setting to connect, explore, and recharge between sessions. Whether you’re here to pitch, learn, or build your next big idea, you’ll find the energy and support to move your business forward.
EXPLORE MISSISSAUGA WITH OUR INTERACTIVE MAP
From must-try restaurants to unforgettable team-building experiences, this map highlights all the featured spots across Mississauga. Whether you’re looking for a place to connect over great food or break the ice with your team, you’ll find everything you need to make the most of your time in the city — all just a short trip from your home base.
SIP & SHOP
Discover Mississauga’s thriving community of small businesses, cozy cafés, and artisan markets. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee between sessions or looking for something unique to take home, these local spots offer authentic experiences and thoughtful finds.
Coffee Culture Across the City
Mississauga is home to an array of independent cafés where you can connect, unwind, or catch up on work:
Halo Espresso Bar – A modern downtown café known for its minimalist design, excellent espresso, and welcoming atmosphere. Great for casual meetings or solo breaks.
Back Road Coffee Roasters – A local roaster offering small-batch coffee with a focus on sustainability and quality. Located in the south end of the city.
Studio.89 – A nonprofit café and community hub in north Mississauga offering fair-trade drinks, baked goods, and a creative atmosphere for events and co-working.
Café Demetre – For those with a sweet tooth, this café blends dessert culture with a laid-back coffeehouse vibe.
Explore Local Makers at Square One
Square One Shopping Centre is not only one of Canada’s largest malls but also a destination for discovering local vendors. Seasonal pop-ups and artisan markets often appear in the Grand Rotunda, featuring handcrafted goods, art, and specialty items from small businesses.
Plus, visitors from out of town (65+ KM away) are eligible to receive a $25 Square One Gift Card when they present their combined, same-day receipts totalling $500 or more before tax along with their I.D. showing home address to the Guest Services Desk, located near Wilfred.
Maker Market Collective
Located in south Mississauga, the Maker Market Collective brings together over 70 local artisans under one roof. From handmade candles and ceramics to jewelry, prints, and home goods, this space highlights Mississauga’s creative talent and entrepreneurial spirit.
Whether you’re sipping, browsing, or gifting, these local experiences offer a memorable way to explore Mississauga while supporting its vibrant small business community.
BREAK THE ICE: TEAM BUILDING EXPERIENCES
Forge meaningful connections with fellow BFUTR delegates through these fun, interactive, and team-focused activities in Mississauga.
BRKFREE
BRKFREE is Mississauga’s one-of-a-kind social gaming experience, featuring 35+ high-tech challenge rooms that test your physical, mental, and problem-solving skills. Teams of 2 to 4 race against the clock in themed rooms like “Submarine” and “The Heist,” with live scoring and immersive sound and lighting. After the games, unwind at the self-pour tap wall with local craft beers, ciders, and cocktails, plus a great menu of shareable eats. Ideal for casual hangouts or large team events.
Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue
Step into the world of Minecraft like never before with this in-person, story-driven adventure at Square One. Work together through seven themed biomes to gather resources, battle mobs, and complete challenges to rescue the villagers. Perfect for groups looking for something playful and collaborative. Book during regular hours or join an Adult Night (Wednesdays & Thursdays, 7–10 p.m.) for trivia, themed drinks, and a grown-up twist on the game.
The Rec Room
Located at Square One, The Rec Room is a go-to for casual team-building fun. From ping-pong and axe throwing to arcade games and virtual reality, there’s something for everyone. Group packages and tournament options are available, including medal ceremonies and private event space for large teams.
FLAVOURS OF THE CITY - JUST STEPS AWAY
- The Food District – A combination of your local baker, juicery and restaurants all rolled into one curated market. With more than 25 artisans, merchants and eateries offering dine-in experiences and to-go options, there is definitely something for everyone at The Food District.
- Hibachi Teppanyaki & Bar Mississauga – They’ve ignited the dining
scene in Mississauga with the sizzle of the grill and the art of teppanyaki! With their skilled chefs mastering every slice, flip, and flame, they’ve crafted an unforgettable experience that celebrates the flavours and traditions of Japanese cuisine — one fiery performance at a time.
- Bar6ix Mississauga – Casual dining in an upscale atmosphere with top-notch food, delicious drinks and plenty of high-def TVs to catch your favorite teams in action.
- Alioli Ristorante – A passion for authentic Italian cuisine, Alioli has thrived in Mississauga since 1996! A family-run establishment, that prides themselves on creating a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for gatherings of all kinds.
- Befikre – Vogue-inspired dining with a modernist approach to Indian cuisine, it showcases innovative bites by complementing the flavors and traditions of India with global ingredients and techniques.
- MADO – Square One – With enormous breakfasts, appetizing lunches and exquisite dinners, Mado is the place of extraordinary tastes – one of the best Turkish restaurants in Mississauga!
MICHELIN RECOGNIZED DINING
Awaken your palate at Mississauga’s finest, recently acknowledged in the 2024 Michelin Guide:
Guru Lukshmi – Earned a Bib Gourmand for outstanding South Indian vegetarian fare at approachable prices. Highly praised for dosas, vadas, and flavorful chutneys.
Tamarind Modern Indian Bistro – Rated Michelin Recommended for its elevated Indian dishes and inventive twists like paneer and Chettinad tacos in a chic setting.