funding: Up to 50% of travel costs covered
location: Los Angeles, California (LA Tech Week, Oct 12–16)
host: Consulate General of Canada in LA / The Daraja Collective
source-url: https://opportunitydesk.org/2026/06/26/socal-canadian-black-tech-express-2026/
apply-url: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd0yWVg7NUfCWYhY2ATMwr8XPfkQF1WMO0E1MMwHV6K7PZqcw/viewform
The Canadian Black Tech Express 2026 is an initiative by the Consulate General of Canada in Los Angeles, in partnership with The Daraja Collective, that connects early-stage Canadian tech companies led by Black or BIPOC entrepreneurs with business development opportunities and investor contacts in Southern California. The programme joins during LA Tech Week, one of the biggest weeks in the L.A. tech ecosystem, and will support up to 5 weeks of virtual prep programming. The programme is specifically designed for companies with at least $100K in annual recurring revenue.
Overview
The Canadian Black Tech Express 2026 is the fifth cohort of an initiative by the Consulate General of Canada in Los Angeles, in partnership with The Daraja Collective.
- Connects early-stage, tech-focused Canadian companies with business development opportunities and investor contacts in Southern California
- Joins during LA Tech Week (October 12–16)
- Priority given to companies seeking Seed–Series A funding in October 2026
- 5 weeks of virtual prep programming (1–2 hrs/week, Aug 24–Sep 30)
- In-person programming at LA Tech Week
- Direct access to SoCal investors, mentors, strategic partners, and potential clients
Eligibility
The programme is open to early-stage Canadian tech companies led or operated by a Black entrepreneur (or at least one Black member in the management team).
- Already generating revenue or has raised venture funding (preferred ARR of CAD $100,000+)
- Must attend all in-person programming at LA Tech Week and all 5 weeks of virtual prep (Aug 24–Sep 30)
- Actively seeking SoCal opportunities with a well-defined MVP or Service
Benefits
- Up to 50% of travel costs covered
- Pitch deck reviewed by General Partners from Black Ops Ventures, DVRGNT Ventures, and MUSA Capital
- 5 weeks of virtual prep programming (1–2 hrs/week, Aug 24–Sep 30) plus in-person programming at LA Tech Week
- Direct access to SoCal investors, mentors, strategic partners, and potential clients
How to Apply
To apply, complete the application form via Google Forms before July 31, 2026.
- Include pitch deck (reviewed by GPs from Black Ops Ventures, DVRGNT Ventures, and MUSA Capital)
- Submit application before the deadline of July 31, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Canadian Black Tech Express 2026?
The Canadian Black Tech Express 2026 is an initiative by the Consulate General of Canada in Los Angeles, in partnership with The Daraja Collective, that connects early-stage Canadian tech companies led by Black or BIPOC entrepreneurs with business development opportunities and investor contacts in Southern California.
Who is eligible to apply for the Canadian Black Tech Express 2026?
The programme is open to early-stage Canadian tech companies led or operated by a Black entrepreneur (or at least one Black member in the management team) that are already generating revenue or have raised venture funding.
What are the benefits of participating in the Canadian Black Tech Express 2026?
Participating companies can receive up to 50% of travel costs covered, have their pitch deck reviewed by General Partners from Black Ops Ventures, DVRGNT Ventures, and MUSA Capital, and access virtual prep programming and in-person events during LA Tech Week.
How do I apply for the Canadian Black Tech Express 2026?
To apply, complete the application form via Google Forms before July 31, 2026, and include a pitch deck that will be reviewed by General Partners from Black Ops Ventures, DVRGNT Ventures, and MUSA Capital.
What is the deadline to apply for the Canadian Black Tech Express 2026?
The deadline to apply is July 31, 2026.
What type of funding is available for participants?
Up to 50% of travel costs are covered for eligible companies.