Pizza Hut Canada has recently announced a three-year partnership with Startup Canada, aimed at creating greater opportunities for Canadian entrepreneurs. This collaborative effort is supported by Pizza Hut’s Equal Slice Program, which has been successfully removing barriers and fostering employability in communities served by Pizza Hut for the past five years. As part of this partnership, Pizza Hut and Startup Canada will be distributing $300,000 in cash grants and valuable educational resources to empower early-stage entrepreneurs across the country.
Over the next three years, the Startup Canada Equal Slice Pitch Competitions will offer business coaching, educational workshops, and significant enhancements to Startup Canada’s Business Owner’s Toolbox “Powered By” Pizza Hut Equal Slice. This initiative is designed to help entrepreneurs navigate challenges, unlock new opportunities, and provide them with the necessary resources to succeed in the competitive business landscape.
Kayla Isabelle, CEO of Startup Canada, expressed her excitement about the partnership, stating, “At Startup Canada, we’re unwavering in our mission to empower every early-stage entrepreneur in the country. Through this game-changing collaboration with Pizza Hut, we’re not just opening doors – we’re tearing down the systemic barriers that have held too many back for too long. In times of economic uncertainty, bold action is critical. Integrating Equal Slice into our programming isn’t just important – it’s urgent. We’re driving real change by not only dismantling obstacles but actively forging new pathways, arming entrepreneurs with easy-to-access funding, tools, resources, and support they need not just to survive, but to dominate and redefine the future of Canadian business.”
Daniel Meynen, general manager of Pizza Hut Canada, highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship to the Pizza Hut brand. He stated, “Entrepreneurship is at the heart of Pizza Hut’s story. What started 63 years ago as two brothers with a dream has grown into a globally recognized brand, powered by a strong network of passionate franchise partners. In Canada, our 640 and growing Pizza Hut locations are more than just restaurants – they’re thriving businesses owned by local entrepreneurs and families who create jobs and give back to their communities. By partnering with Startup Canada through the Equal Slice Program, we’re expanding our impact and empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs with the resources, funding, and support they need to succeed.”
The 2025 Startup Canada Tour is set to kick off in Calgary on April 29, marking the beginning of a series of events aimed at supporting and promoting entrepreneurship across the country. This tour will provide entrepreneurs with the opportunity to network, learn from industry experts, and gain valuable insights to help them grow their businesses.
Overall, the partnership between Pizza Hut Canada and Startup Canada represents a significant commitment to supporting and empowering Canadian entrepreneurs. By providing financial assistance, educational resources, and ongoing support, both organizations are working together to create a more inclusive and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Canada. Through initiatives like the Equal Slice Program and the Startup Canada Tour, they are helping to pave the way for the next generation of successful business leaders in the country.
