Where to Find a Technical Co-Founder in Toronto: Expert Tips from the Startup Ecosystem
In this episode of the Startup Talk Podcast (https://torontostarts.com/startup-talk-toronto-startup-podcast/) , we delve deep into the burning question for many aspiring entrepreneurs: “Where can I find a technical co-founder in Toronto?” We explore strategies that range from in-person networking at events like Startup Investor Drinks (https://startupdrinksto.com/) to leveraging online communities such as Founders Beta and Co-Founders Lab. The episode features insights from startup experts, offering practical advice on finding the right technical partner to help bring your vision to life.
Speaker List and Contact Information
• John Irwin
Preferred Contact: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-irwin/)
Canadian companies can also book a free assessment for Government Funding through John.
• Jeff Hoedeman
Preferred Contact: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com)
• Alex Morsink
Preferred Contact: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com)
More resources available at the Equivesto Learning Center (https://equivesto.com/learning-center) .
• Graeme Barlow
Social Platforms: @Graemebarlow on all social platforms (https://www.linkedin.com) , Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/graemebarlow) , X (https://twitter.com/graemebarlow)
Website: GraemeBarlow.com (https://graemebarlow.com)
Where to find a technical co-founder in Toronto: In-Person Networking in Toronto’s Thriving Startup Community
According to John Irwin, one of the best places to start is attending Startup Investor Drinks (https://startupdrinksto.com/) . This event brings together Toronto’s startup ecosystem, providing a perfect opportunity to meet potential technical co-founders. Irwin emphasizes the importance of building relationships with like-minded individuals at these events. Another excellent resource is the online community Founders Beta, and more specifically, Co-Founders Beta, a platform dedicated to matching entrepreneurs with technical co-founders. If you’re in Toronto, John highly recommends exploring these avenues to find the right technical partner.
Graeme Barlow also highlights the value of in-person meetups, including tech meetups where developers and entrepreneurs can connect. Bodan Zabwaski’s CTO group in Toronto is another excellent option for finding skilled tech talent. He points out that tech layoffs have created an influx of highly qualified developers looking for new opportunities, so now might be the perfect time to meet potential co-founders at these events.
Barlow also mentions Antler, an in-person program that matches founders and technical talent. Though challenging to get into, Antler is a renowned incubator that helps you connect with potential partners while benefiting from structured guidance and mentorship.
Online Resources for Finding a Technical Co-Founder in Toronto
For those who prefer online networking, platforms like Co-Founders Lab offer an extensive database of individuals seeking partners for their startups. Irwin suggests tapping into these platforms to meet a wider pool of candidates, including those outside Toronto who may be open to relocation or remote collaboration.
Alex Morsink, an experienced investor and founder, agrees that online platforms are an invaluable resource but emphasizes that finding a co-founder requires more than just technical skills. Building a startup is like entering a marriage; it’s crucial to find someone whose vision aligns with yours, and reverse vesting arrangements can help protect both parties.
Sales First, Co-Founder Later
Interestingly, Graeme Barlow advises a different approach for some founders. He suggests that if your startup is already built and you’re looking for someone to help finalize development, it might be better to focus on sales first. Building traction through sales can help attract a stronger technical co-founder down the line, rather than rushing to bring someone on board solely to complete your project. This approach allows you to prove your ability to generate revenue and demonstrates the viability of your product, which is often more appealing to potential co-founders.
Barlow reminds us that finding a co-founder is much more than a business transaction. Bringing someone on board after much of the project is complete can be tricky, so taking steps like reverse vesting can help ensure that equity is distributed fairly and incentivizes long-term commitment.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
The conversation also touches on common challenges when bringing in a technical co-founder later in the game. According to Morsink, most of his portfolio companies had co-founders from the outset, and adding one afterward is rare. If you’re trying to bring in a co-founder after significant progress has been made, be prepared for potential complicat…