Why Y Combinator cut Canada out

Why Y Combinator cut Canada out

From The BetaKit Podcast Channel by BetaKit Podcast Network

February 2, 2026 · 1h 6m

About this episode

The episode discusses Y Combinator's decision to stop investing in Canadian startups and its implications for the Canadian tech landscape.

"It's important for the success of Y Combinator to see people investing at a very, very early stage. And if it means, to keep them happy so that they're investing in YC companies, they will do what it takes." Globally recognized tech accelerator Y Combinator will no longer directly invest in Canadian-domiciled startups. Is the change a huge blow to Canada, a big nothingburger, politically motivated, or perhaps simply "formalizing what's inevitable?" Maverix Private Equity founder and managing partner John Ruffolo joins to discuss fuzzy data, "bullshit" narratives, and the real problems hampering Canadian tech. -- The BetaKit podcast is presented by Fasken Emerging Tech, supporting trailblazing startups, venture capital funds and acquirers of high-growth tech companies for over 30 years. If you're curious about the health of Canada's tech M&A scene, you've got to check out Exit InSights. It's a first-of-its-kind report from Fasken's Emerging Technology & Venture Capital Group that analyses private M&A activity among VC-backed and high-growth tech companies. You'll learn how buyers and sellers are maximizing value, minimizing risk, and navigating one of the most vibrant…

People in this episode

Guest: John Ruffolo

Topics covered

  • Y Combinator
  • Canadian startups
  • tech investment
  • venture capital
  • Canadian tech ecosystem

Keywords

  • Y Combinator
  • Canada
  • startups
  • investment
  • tech
  • venture capital
  • M&A

Sponsors

Fasken Emerging Tech

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Y Combinator, Maverix Private Equity

Books & works: Exit InSights

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