Question 1

What is the Pitch?

Accepted Answer

The Total Mom Pitch is a program that aims to support entrepreneurship among moms.   The Pitch allows women across Canada to participate and connect with other female entrepreneurs during the competition and beyond while receiving expert feedback and mentorship.   Busy moms are often challenged with time, resources and funding but are passionate and eager to turn their business dreams into a reality. The Pitch aims to give local start-ups an opportunity to be mentored and coached by women who want to share their wisdom and experiences giving the qualifiers an advantage in their business journey. The experts will help them see potential gaps in their startup that can lead to expensive mistakes and heartaches in the future.   We know all too well that time is a challenge for moms, and it’s often difficult to juggle the personal and professional, as well as resources and funding. We also know that women are passionate and eager to turn their business dreams into a reality.    Canada’s Total Mom Pitch aims to give start-ups across the country an opportunity to be mentored and coached by women who want to share their wisdom and experiences. These women want to give the qualifying applicants an advantage in their business journey. The experts will help them see potential gaps in their start-up that can lead to expensive mistakes and heartaches in the future.   The idea is that we lift you a little higher, and you step into your power!

Question 2

What is the Pitch timeline?

Accepted Answer

The Pitch will run over 5 months. The official launch date is January 3, 2022. The competition ends on May 30th, 2022, which is when the grand prize winner will be announced.  APPLICATION ROUND - Applications Open on January 3, 2022 and close on March 31, 2022 Application Deliberation - Judges narrow down the applicants that will move on to the qualifying round from April 2, 2022- April 7, 2022  QUALIFYING ROUND - Qualified applicants will begin the public voting on April 11, 2022 - April 22, 2022 Qualifying Deliberation - Judges narrow down the semi finalists to move into the Top 5 from April 25, 2022 - April 29, 2022  ACCELERATOR ROUND - The Top 100 finalists will be publicly announced on April 11, 2022 followed by the launch of the Accelerator program where they will be coached and mentored for 3 intensive sessions.   FINALE - The Top 5 will go on to pitch their business to the judges live on the digital stage. The judges will deliberate and award the winner announced live on stage by an executive from the Scotiabank Women Initiative.

Question 3

Are there any application fees? What does it mean to pay-it-forward?

Accepted Answer

The application fee is $21.09 + taxes. We have placed a pay-it-forward system in place for the application. That is why half of your application fee will be invested in funding current and future grants. By doing this, not only are you investing in yourself but also investing in other women, like yourself, looking for an opportunity to grow and scale their business. Together we are modelling a new way of investing in ourselves and the women proving that when we come together, we rise together.   Important note: this is a ONE-TIME fee and will cover the qualifying and accelerator round submissions.  All applicants will receive a ticket to the finale, and special perks for being an applicant :)

Question 4

How/Where to submit my application?

Accepted Answer

We are using a 3rd-party platform to host this competition, please visit the Pitch page and follow the link https://totalmompitch.totalmom.ca/

Question 5

What are the Participant Requirements?

Accepted Answer

You must identify as a woman and have been a caregiver of at some point in your life that you would consider yourself mom-identifying (includes but not limited to step-mom, grandmother, adoption mother), mothering pets although cute does note count for this specific competition :)  You must be a Canadian resident over the age of 18. (QC residents not applicable - for more information please visit https://www.thebalanceeveryday.com/why-are-so-many-competitions-void-in-quebec-896835) You must own/operate your own business in the Canadian market for at least one year (you don’t need to be incorporated or need to have generated many sales as of yet) You may edit your entry after submitting, up until the entry deadline. Please make sure all your personal details are entered accurately, including contact details Entry fees may be paid by credit card only and must be paid online at the time of completing submissions. If your submissions have not been paid for at the close of entry they will not be included for judging. A merchant fee will be applied to entries paid by credit card. These fees will be added to your total and outlined in the payment summary.

Question 6

What do I need to submit?

Accepted Answer

All we ask for is some info to let us get to know you and your business a little bit better! Express yourself, some of the details you share will help us shape better programs and contribute to a future where moms with businesses are better supported :)    If you make it through the first round you may be asked to submit a short 60-90 second video along with a few more details about you and your business.

Question 7

What do I get for applying?

Accepted Answer

FREE Ticket to Live Pitch Finale and Networking Event  Invited to join Total Mom Inc. community  FREE automatic Recognition Award entry  And More  And, once you make it to the Top 100 you get–  Access to private business education and networking Membership Network  A spot in the Business Accelerator program with leading execs from companies like  Scotiabank Women Initiative, GoDaddy, Zoho, EDC, BDC  100s of eyes (and national press!) on your company during the Public Vote  And More

Question 8

What is the prize?

Accepted Answer

The Top 5 finalists will all receive various prizes to help them continue building their business.   The 1st place winner will receive cash and other amazing prizes valued at OVER $30,000 ($10,000 cash, $20,000 of in-kind business services)

Question 9

What is the Accelorator Program?

Accepted Answer

The 100 finalists will be taking part in a 2-month accelerator program with 3 digital sessions where they will have the opportunity to consult with and be mentored by experts and build the ultimate business plan and pitch. With a series of Zoom meetings, one-on-one briefings, and online assignments, the participants and mentors can have the opportunity to connect.

Question 10

How do I get into the qualifying round?

Accepted Answer

The 100 finalists will be taking part in a 2-month accelerator program with 3 digital sessions where they will have the opportunity to consult with and be mentored by experts and build the ultimate business plan and pitch. With a series of Zoom meetings, one-on-one briefings, and online assignments, the participants and mentors can have the opportunity to connect.

Question 11

What stage of business do I need to be in?

Accepted Answer

This competition is available for all stages as long as you have been working on your business for at least 1 year :)

Question 12

I'm a mom from Quebec, why can I not apply?"

Accepted Answer

Quebec has strict rules set in place to protect its residents, and we hold the utmost respect for those rules. You can read more about it here: https://www.thebalanceeveryday.com/why-are-so-many-competitions-void-in-quebec-896835    Additionally, if you are a mom of Quebec and are in need of resources, please reach out to us on our social media or through our contact us page - we are here to help in whatever capacity we can.

Question 13

My question still hasn't been answered, who can I contact?

Accepted Answer

This competition is available for all stages - from concept to already trading!

Question 14

How many participants do you expect in the Finale? Is this only for the applicants or can anybody get tickets?

Accepted Answer

The finale will be a ticketed digital business event with breakout rooms that our ticket holders can attend. Anybody is welcome to purchase tickets to the Finale.  The attendees will be a combination of the top 5, the sponsors, the community partners, college/university students, small business owners, startups, executive female leaders, and members of the Canadian & US business ecosystem. All applicants of the Pitch program will automatically get a ticket to the event. Sponsors and partners depending on their level will also be given tickets to give out.

Question 15

What about women entrepreneurs who are not parents, including women entrepreneurs who are not able to have children, have chosen not to have children or younger women who are planning to have children?

Accepted Answer

Total Mom is a social enterprise and media brand that supports moms personally and professionally. There are many business competitions and networks for women in general but we specifically focus on supporting moms who are accessing a unique set of challenges and barriers. That is why Total Mom was born :)  This is not about excluding women, it is about focusing on a specific set of women with a unique set of challenges.

Question 16

What is the Total Mom Inc.?

Accepted Answer

Total Mom is A trusted lifestyle & Media brand that empowers women, advocating for equal opportunities and bringing the focus back to moms challenging the limitations that parents face.  Since our first festival in 2019, which brought over 1k women together with over 45 speakers, a VIP lounge and a stage that featured wellness experts, meditation and keynotes,  Total Mom Inc., has disrupted the “mom space “ to extend support systems and valuable experiences that put the focus back on mom.  Total Mom Inc. has disrupted the “mom space “ to extend support systems and valuable experiences that focus on the mom. We work with some of the best brands and speakers to make sure we provide quality experiences. We are helping moms build powerful brands that leave a lasting impact on their lives, careers, and communities while growing a successful business as mothers.  There’s a huge gap in what’s currently offered to moms who are looking for real change, empowerment and professional advancement. Total Mom is Investing in women-owned business ideas while highlighting diverse women across the country who are innovating, creating and solving today’s pressing problems and driving tomorrow’s impact with their companies.  I am a  self-made CEO who grew a successful media company. I am so proud of the growth and often see myself as somewhat of a women-led business success story. I am a 2-time immigrant & refugee; I was the first female in my family to go to College & University. Now specializing in entrepreneurship, strategic sales, and partnerships & brand consultation, my focus is on the future of technology, community growth, and impact.   We are on a mission to ensure women have equal opportunities to access capital, mentorship and education to grow and scale a business of their own.  The Total Mom Pitch Initiative aims to promote entrepreneurship and support busy moms to grow and scale their businesses through the power of community, education and entertainment and helping founders to develop powerful brands that leave a lasting impact on their lives, careers and communities.   Our goal is to reach mom entrepreneurs and help them succeed and gain economic independence.   We have already supported over 1,400 Canadian women to take a step towards accessing funding, getting media recognition and making powerful connections through our program’s support.

Question 17

Is the Total Mom Show a trade show?

Accepted Answer

Nope. It’s far from that. The Total Mom Show events are experiential, and the festivals and markets are interactive and wellness inspired. The summits are driven by education and VIP pampering, while the retreats take you away to connect, learn and heal.

Question 18

I’m a dad. Should I come to a Total Mom Inc. event?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We welcome all parents, including moms, dads, and gender-nonbinary parents.

Question 19

My kids are older or grown up. Should I come to an event?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. If you identify as a mom or parent, we’re here for you and we’re positive you’ll find the community and resources you’re looking for, no matter your kids’ ages!

Question 20

Can I showcase my products at an event?

Accepted Answer

If you’re interested in being a vendor at a Total Mom Inc. event, click here for more info! We also offer sponsorship opportunities for companies and organizations interested in supporting an event and connecting with our community of moms — click here to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.

Question 21

I’m not a business owner or a blogger yet. Is the Total Mom Business Summit right for me?

Accepted Answer

Yes! As long are you are working towards building out your business and need support from very experienced industry leaders, you won’t want to miss this.

Question 22

You’re having a sale, but I already bought my ticket. Will you refund the difference?"

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, we do not offer price adjustments. If you’ve purchased tickets before a sale, discounts cannot be retroactively applied.

Question 23

Are you hiring?

Accepted Answer

We’re always looking for awesome talent to add to our team! Send your resume to info@thetotalmomshow.ca. Looking for an internship? We want you! Email us with the subject line INTERN to be considered.

Question 24

Can I contribute to the blog?

Accepted Answer

If you have a great idea for a piece, please email our editorial director at opportunities@thetotalmomshow.ca with writing samples and a detailed pitch.

Question 25

I’m interested in sponsoring a blog post. What’s the process?

Accepted Answer

We do offer sponsored posts to select partners. If you’re interested in having a sponsored post featured on the blog, please email anna@thetotalmomshow.ca

Question 26

Are Total Mom Influencer events invite-only?

Accepted Answer

Yes! These events are coming soon. We send monthly newsletters with updates on the latest Total Mom Influencer events. Make sure to register on our website.

Question 27

How does front of line access work for VIP?

Accepted Answer

Any eligible events, workshops, or panels will be marked with front of line signage. Based on capacity at the time of your arrival, you’ll be given first access to the event based on our first come, first serve policy. This is amazing if you need to get inside to change a diaper, feed or even just snag a spot in the Beauty Lounge.

Question 28

Are you having those amazing VIP bags again?

Accepted Answer

You will be happy to hear that this year we have upgraded to somthing even better! It's our first ever Total Mom Box subscription box and it's going to have some of our favorite brands in it. The sub box will be available on site for pick up at our Festivals.   Additionally, If you are one of our lucky Business summit pass ticket holders, you will have the opportunity to take a box home at no charge by joining our Total Mom Influence free memebrship.

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