As Startup Ecosystem Canada launches its City Programs initiative, Montréal becomes the first city to join the growing national network. Recognized as one of Canada's leading innovation hubs, Montréal is home to world-class research institutions, a thriving AI ecosystem, and a collaborative community of founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders.

Leading the Montréal chapter is Michelle Lingham, whose career has focused on helping founders, entrepreneurs, researchers, and exceptional talent connect with opportunities around the world. We spoke with Michelle about what excites her most about Montréal, her vision for the chapter, and how the community can get involved.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what led you to Startup Ecosystem Canada?

I have spent more than 18 years working in the global talent and innovation space, helping founders, entrepreneurs, researchers, and high-impact professionals navigate opportunities across international markets. Throughout my career, I've worked closely with ambitious founders and innovative organizations, which has given me a deep appreciation for the role strong startup ecosystems play in helping people succeed.

Joining Startup Ecosystem Canada felt like a natural fit because it aligns with my passion for connecting people, strengthening innovation communities, and helping founders access the networks and opportunities they need to grow.

What excites you most about leading Startup Ecosystem Canada's Montréal chapter?

What excites me most is the opportunity to represent Startup Ecosystem Canada in a city that already has an extraordinary concentration of talent, innovation, and ambition.

Since arriving in Montréal, I have been incredibly impressed by the openness and generosity of the ecosystem leaders and community here. I genuinely believe the rest of Canada, and even the world, can learn from what is happening in Montréal. There is a real willingness to collaborate, support one another, and create opportunities for others.

That culture of collaboration is one of Montréal's greatest competitive advantages, and I'm excited to help strengthen those connections even further.

What makes Montréal such an important city for Canada's startup ecosystem?

There is an undeniable vibrancy and diversity in Montréal's ecosystem. The city is home to some of Canada's leading universities, world-class research institutions, exceptional founders, strong investor interest, and an increasingly global talent pool.

The opportunity isn't about creating something from scratch. It's about connecting the incredible people, organizations, and resources that already exist. Montréal has already proven it can build companies that compete globally, and I believe there's tremendous opportunity to strengthen those connections even further.

What opportunities do you see for founders and innovators in Montréal?

Montréal has a rare combination of strengths that are difficult to replicate.

It has deep expertise in AI and advanced technologies, a strong creative and design culture, and a multilingual talent base with a global outlook. It also strikes an incredible balance between commercial ambition and quality of life, which is becoming increasingly important for attracting and retaining exceptional talent.

Combined with the city's collaborative spirit across founders, institutions, government, and industry, Montréal is incredibly well positioned for continued innovation and growth.

What does success look like for the Montréal chapter?

Success would mean Montréal becomes a destination where talented, ambitious people feel they have a community that's genuinely invested in their success.

I want founders, investors, operators, and builders to know they have a place where they can connect, learn from one another, and receive support throughout every stage of their journey. The strongest startup ecosystems are built by people who show up for each other, and that's exactly the kind of community we want to continue building.

How can people get involved?

It's simple. Just reach out.

Whether you're a founder, investor, operator, student, researcher, or someone passionate about Canada's innovation ecosystem, we'd love to connect. Join us at an upcoming event, follow Startup Ecosystem Canada, or reach out directly.

The best way to become part of the community is simply to show up, engage, and help us build something meaningful together.