Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Startupfest's Inclusion Initiative Boosts Women Speakers to 48%

3/1/2025

28 2

Summary

Story summary

Startupfest introduced the Inclusion Initiative in 2011, setting a precedent for corporate DEI efforts.
In 2018, it focused on enhancing diversity at the FWD50 tech conference in Ottawa.
A new rule required that 50% of sponsor-nominated speakers be women.
This initiative raised the percentage of women speakers from 19% to 48%.
CEO Philippe Telio expressed concern over the neglect of DEI initiatives.

1 of 1

Story summary

Startupfest introduced the Inclusion Initiative in 2011, setting a precedent for corporate DEI efforts.
In 2018, it focused on enhancing diversity at the FWD50 tech conference in Ottawa.
A new rule required that 50% of sponsor-nominated speakers be women.
This initiative raised the percentage of women speakers from 19% to 48%.
CEO Philippe Telio expressed concern over the neglect of DEI initiatives.