In the fast-moving world of AI, building a company requires more than just great technology—it requires a strong network of peers who understand your unique challenges. That’s why we’re thrilled to launch the AI Founders Forum, a new peer group designed to connect and support entrepreneurs at the cutting edge of AI innovation.

Registration Details

Join us on Wednesday, August 21st, 2024, from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM ET, for our official kickoff! We’ll be gathering in person at Innovation Factory in Hamilton, setting the stage for a truly collaborative community. This launch event is timed perfectly to lead right into our iF Summer Social, offering an ideal opportunity to double-down on networking.

The session will feature a critical discussion on Intellectual Property (IP) for AI companies, led by experts from Marks & Clerk, providing foundational knowledge for safeguarding your innovations.

We’ll also unveil our vision for the peer group and, most importantly, open the floor to get YOUR feedback, ensuring this group is built by and for the members. This is your chance to build a supportive, specialized community from the ground up, all under the roof of the thriving Innovation Factory ecosystem.

What to Expect

This kickoff is more than just an introduction; it’s an interactive session designed to spark connections and provide immediate value. Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Essential IP Knowledge for AI Companies: Gain invaluable insights from the experts at Marks & Clerk on the nuances of protecting your intellectual property in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. This is a foundational topic for any founder building a technology-driven company.
• Shape the Future of the Forum: This is your chance to have a voice. We’ll present our initial ideas for the peer group’s structure, topics, and activities, and then we’ll listen to your feedback, ensuring the forum meets the needs of its members.
• Meaningful Peer-to-Peer Networking: The best part of any community is the people. We’ll dedicate significant time to get to know one another and begin the process of building a network of mutual support. Come ready to answer questions like:
  • What is a unique strength of my business that I can share with others?
  • What is the biggest challenge I need help with right now?
  • How would I like to collaborate with other members in this group?
  • What resources am I willing to share, and what resources am I looking for?

Who Should Attend

This forum is designed for founders, entrepreneurs, and leaders of early-stage startups that are actively building or leveraging AI. If your company’s core technology is powered by AI, if you’re a founder trying to navigate the unique business and technical hurdles of an AI company, or if you’re passionate about connecting with like-minded peers who understand the intricacies of this space, this event is for you. This is a community for those who want to share knowledge, seek honest advice, and build lasting, collaborative relationships that will help scale their ventures.

Accessibility Information

Innovation Factory is committed to hosting inclusive events. Our venue is wheelchair accessible, and we strive to accommodate all attendees. If you have any specific accessibility requirements or need special accommodations to participate fully in this in-person event, please do not hesitate to contact our team in advance at info@innovationfactory.ca. We are dedicated to ensuring a comfortable and welcoming experience for everyone.

Meet the Speakers

We are pleased to welcome Marks & Clerk, a leading firm specializing in intellectual property, providing strategic advice and support to innovators worldwide. Their team will share their expertise on how AI companies can best protect their valuable IP, a crucial step for any startup’s long-term success.