Global professionals, technology leaders, investors, creatives, and technophiles, clear your calendars! Friday, September 21st marks the highly anticipated kickoff of Elevate 2018, Toronto’s premiere technology and innovation festival, and it is not to be missed. This week-long, city-wide festival features a deep dive into riveting content, experiential programming, and engaging keynote speakers, all celebrating Toronto’s exploding technology ecosystem. Here is a look at what you can expect:

Elevate Hackathon , September 21- 23

During the first three days of Elevate, 500 internationally-based students and early-career professionals will converge upon the MaRS Discovery District, all vying for a chance at over $18,000 in cash and prizes. This diverse tribe of developers, creative designers, civic innovators and technical experts will showcase their talents as they take on the challenge of reimagining Toronto as a Smart City.

ElevateR Pitch, September 25

Pitch your AI startup to 6,000 people for the chance at becoming one of the selected finalists to share in over $1 Million in funding! Finalists have the opportunity to pitch live on the Elevate Main Stage, just prior to Al Gore’s keynote presentation.

Elevate Main Stage, September 25

Take you seat at the Sony Centre’s Main Stage to absorb the insights and observations of world-class leaders in tech and innovation. Throughout this full-day session, acclaimed speakers the likes of Al Gore, Galen Weston, Whitney Wolfe Herd, and Julie Rice will discuss the impact of technology on our future, and what it will mean for the next generation of leaders.

The Sony Centre also plays host to additional events, including the Corporate Buyer Zone, the Investor Zone, ElevateR Pitch, and the Access Lounge.

Elevate Educate, September 26

Today’s most cutting-edge topics and technologies will be disseminated and discussed by thought-leaders in 15 content tracks throughout Toronto’s downtown core. These tracks include retail, AI, cannabis, health, social impact and more, including the exclusive Exec2Exec Masterclass.