INNOVATE AND CELEBRATE @ THE BIG DiF 2026. Please join the Innovation Factory on Thursday May 14, 2026 from 4PM-8PM. Celebrate BIG ideas that make an even BIGGER impact by joining Innovation Factory on Thursday, May 14, 2026, for the 16th Annual The BIG DiF, where this 200+ attendee event returns!

About The Big DiF

The Big DiF is Innovation Factory’s annual open house and client showcase that brings the start-up community together to celebrate entrepreneurship and innovation in our region, as well as recognize our valued partners who help make what we do at iF possible!

What You’ll Experience

• Startup & client exhibits showcasing emerging companies and technologies
• Networking opportunities with founders, partners, investors, and community leaders
• A vibrant evening celebrating the strength of our regional innovation ecosystem

Special Recognition

During the event, we will present the Mark Chamberlain DiFizen of the Year Award, recognizing an individual who goes above and beyond to support the entrepreneurial community.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, ecosystem partner, investor, or innovation enthusiast, The BIG DiF is your chance to connect with our community and meet some of our most exciting up-and-coming innovators.

What are the parking options at the event?

This event takes place at McMaster Innovation Park. McMaster Innovation Park currently has a parking capacity of 500 vehicles. All lots are clearly signed regarding permits and rates to ensure clarity for all visitors.

Visitor parking payment is required from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday. Exact change, Mastercard or Visa, are the payment options. Visitor parking is FREE after 5:00 p.m. Visit the McMaster Innovation Park website to learn more about the designated visitor parking areas.

Accessibility Accommodation Services Offered:

• Accessible parking
• Ramp to building
• Accessible bathrooms

Accessibility Request:

If you require specific accommodations, please contact us at info@innovationfactory.ca to discuss your needs

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

No, you do not need to bring a printed ticket to the event. When you arrive, simply check in at our registration desk with your name.

Questions?

Please contact our events team at events@innovationfactory.ca

About Innovation Factory

Innovation Factory is a not-for-profit business accelerator and a regional innovation centre, serving as the catalyst for technology innovation in Southern Ontario since 2010.

Providing business advisory services, training, mentorship, and strategic connections, Innovation Factory helps drive market adoption, revenues, investment, jobs and leverage of intellectual property. Innovators can also access sector-specific resources including exclusive smart transportation test environments and data and formal life science and health innovation ecosystems.

Funded by the Government of Ontario, Innovation Factory helps Ontario-based innovators and entrepreneurs clear commercialization hurdles — accelerating the growth of companies so that they can compete and succeed globally and create high-quality jobs in our province.

Your entry to this event constitutes implied consent to be photographed and to have those photos published.