FilAfrik events

LIFT 3.0: Beyond the Hustle

Building Businesses that Outlast Us · August 8, 2026 · Ronald D. Schmeichel Building for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Western University

Two speakers in conversation at a FilAfrik event

LIFT moved to Western University for its third edition: a full day of keynotes, panels, masterclasses, a founders’ marketplace and the first LIFT Pitch Lab, with federal and municipal leaders in the room.

Founders and guests: 120+
Pitch Lab prize pool: CA$3,500
Pitch Lab finalists: 6
Attendee rating: 4.9 / 5

The story.

MP Arielle Kayabaga attended and brought remarks from the Government of Canada. Trevor Fowler spoke on behalf of the City of London, and City Councillor Corrine Rahman attended. MPs Peter Fragiskatos and Kurt Holman sent video messages.

Read the full story ↗

Highlights.

Your Business Is a G.I.F.T. by Adekunle Obebe
The Money Code · The AI Economy · Roots to Revenue
Pricing Right: Price Like You Mean It · Show Up: Permission to Build It Your Way
Legal Foundations: Protect Your Business IP and Legacy · From Invisible to Inevitable · Pitch Perfect
Founders’ marketplace, professional headshots and childcare
First place: The Blank Room Inc., CA$1,500 · Second: Blessinglicious, CA$1,000 · Third: NATRL Collective, CA$500 · Audience Choice: Xenvia.io, CA$500, powered by FilAfrik. Prize pool sponsored by Pesa.

What attendees said.

Rich programme and calibre of speakers.

TheVirtualSoulClinic Inc. · LIFT 3.0

Patrick, I just wanted to personally congratulate you and the entire FilAfrik team on an incredible LIFT 3.0. The vision, planning and energy behind the event were evident, and you created a meaningful space for learning, connection and important conversations. Thank you again for giving me the opportunity to be part of it as a moderator. I truly enjoyed the experience and was honoured to contribute. You should be very proud of what you and the team accomplished. Congratulations on a job exceptionally well done.

Nadia · LIFT 3.0