Lisa Zarzeczny
CEO & Cofounder
Elevate
Lisa is a passionate advocate of Canada’s tech and innovation economy. She is the Co-Founder and CEO of Elevate, a mission-driven not for profit organization at the intersection of technology, arts and social innovation. In 2017, Lisa was instrumental in launching Elevate Festival, growing it from 5,000 attendees to over 20,000 in three short years. Overseeing Festival programming, Lisa worked to welcome speakers including Former First Lady Michelle Obama, VP Al Gore, Eric Schmidt, Martha Stewart and more. Under Lisa’s leadership, Elevate launched an innovation arm and flagship accelerator program and several new programs designed to support women-identified and non-binary founders.
Previously, Lisa oversaw marquee events and educational programs at MaRS Discovery District, one of the world’s largest urban innovation hubs. She graduated from McGill University with a B.A Honours in History & Political Science and completed a post-graduate diploma for Project Management from Sheridan College.
Schedule
10 mins
Meridian Hall - Main Stage
The Future of Canada with Kids Help Phone, Elevate & MaRS
There is a youth mental health crisis in this country, now more than ever. Much of the same does not, and will not, work for the future. Kids Help Phone, Elevate and MaRS join forces to transform the e-mental health ecosystem for young people in Canada. The innovation and startup community is essential to the transformation. The future of Canada depends on us succeeding.
5 mins
Meridian Hall - Main Stage
Women+ Investment Announcement
It’s time for the big reveal, join us as we announce the winner of the $100,000 Women+ investment live. This announcement is the culmination of a week long selection process, where ten angel investors heard pitches from over 100 Start Up founders.
10 mins
Meridian Hall - Main Stage
Elevate Opening Night Kickoff
It all starts here. We’re kicking off Elevate Festival 2023 with an intimate evening of curated speakers and performances. Start your festival journey with transformative ideas that will bring you up close and personal with today’s top thought leaders and take you to the forefront of Canada’s tech and innovation industry.
