Pitching a business idea involves more than just numbers and statistics—the energy one brings into the room is equally important, says Pitch Fest 2026 winner Mercedes Diaz. For Diaz, co-founder of Atelier 758, Pitch Fest was more than a personal challenge—it provided a much-needed connection to the warmth and closeness of her Latin American roots.

“As Venezuelan entrepreneurs, we realized that we had not fully connected with the Latin community in Vancouver,” shares Diaz, who took home the $3, 000 grand prize. “Pitch Fest felt like a meaningful opportunity to share our story, meet other entrepreneurs and build relationships within a community that values collaboration and cultural connection.”

The Last month, the Latin-Canadian Business Council (LCBC) and Latincouver Cultural and Business Society hosted the 5^th edition of Pitch Fest in support of Latin American women entrepreneurs in B.C.

Chosen by art

Drawn to creative pursuits as a child, Diaz has long envisioned building her own business. Her previous business—launched in Toronto during the pandemic—sold tequeños (Venezuelan cheese sticks). 

“Atelier 758 is my first business built around something I truly feel passionate about,” she reflects. “It was created from that desire to live and work with intention—combining creativity, wellness and meaningful experience.”

The idea began as an interior design studio, a bridge between Diaz’s architectural background and her business partner Alejandro Tondolo’s engineering expertise. Diaz now handles their creative direction with Tondolo leading the business’ administrative, financial and project management aspects.

“Preparing for Pitch Fest helped us better understand our roles within the business,” Diaz reflects. “It was the first time we intentionally spent weeks reviewing our journey, organizing our ideas and recognizing how much work we have accomplished together.” 

Atelier 758 has grown since its conceptualization in Toronto six years ago. At the time, the founders were helping work-from-home friends curate “more functional and inspiring spaces.” Their business recognizes creativity “as a powerful tool” for connection and well-being—prioritizing meaningful experiences.

“Art came later, almost unexpectedly, and it opened doors we never imagined,” Diaz shares. “In many ways, I like to say that art chose us.”

Taking the risk

Stefhania Nieto, Latincouver’s connecting business manager, sees Pitch Fest as resembling the popular Canadian show Dragons’ Den, providing entrepreneurs connections to local mentors.

“We aspire for Pitch Fest to become the ultimate ecosystem where any woman of Latin heritage in Canada can find the technological and human tools to lead innovative companies,” shares Nieto.

LCBC plans to further develop the event—increasing the available seed capital and expanding its impacts beyond Metro Vancouver.

“We view this not as a one-night event, but as a ‘continuous journey’ where collaboration, training and support do not end at the awards ceremony, but rather evolve alongside the growth of the business,” she shares.

Nieto encourages interested entrepreneurs to “take the risk”—while remaining open to learning and challenges. The real prize, she says, is the participant’s increased confidence and professional growth.

“It serves as a powerful catalyst for opportunities, specifically designed for entrepreneurs who often face language barriers and limited professional networks,” points out Nieto.

As for Diaz, Atelier 758 now offers studio rentals, interior decoration services, commissioned artworks and textured art experiences. The latter is designed with accessibility in mind: anyone, regardless of artistic background, can participate.

“Right now, I am truly enjoying every moment of building Atelier 758,” adds Diaz—describing herself as a “surfer of life”—who trusts the business will grow in the right direction. “Pitch Fest encouraged us to clarify our vision and define more concrete goals for the next few years.”

A flagship event of LCBC’s SHE LATINA program—which supports Latin women entrepreneurs in Canada— this year’s Pitch Fest offered its 23 participants a free business bootcamp. Finalists were invited to specialized sessions, such as using artificial intelligence to craft a pitch.

LCBC also expanded their prizes: the second and third place winners received financial awards for the first time. Additionally, a “People’s Choice” category was introduced to further engage the community.

“Pitching a business is not only about presenting a concept, but you are also presenting yourself, your passion and your belief in what you’re building,” Diaz adds.

For more information on Atelier 758, see https://atelier758.com/.

For more information on Pitch Fest, see https://latincanadianbusiness.ca/pitchfest/.