Toronto, ON – The University of Toronto Bookstore is proud to announce its renewed partnership with U of T Entrepreneurship (UTE) for the second annual U of T Startup Holiday Market, taking place in the iconic Great Hall of the Bookstore. This festive event brings together the university’s vibrant entrepreneurial community, showcasing innovative products and creative ventures from students, alumni, and local makers.
“This collaboration is one of our most anticipated activations of the year” said Jon French, Director – U of T Entrepreneurship. “Buying local and being a first customer for our most promising ventures is part of UTE’s DNA and we are lucky to have a partner in the U of T Bookstore that shares similar values and provides this fantastic opportunity for these businesses.”
This year’s Holiday Market at the U of T Bookstore, hosted in partnership with U of T Entrepreneurship, brings together a vibrant mix of student, alumni, and local businesses. Visitors can discover everything from gourmet snacks and wellness products to innovative tech, apparel and creative art. Among the featured vendors are Uma, offering autonomous vending solutions that are transforming retail experiences, and Eatable Foods Inc., whose gourmet popcorn blends classic cocktail flavors with a commitment to sustainability. Ginny introduces non-alcoholic adaptogen-powered spritzers inspired by global traditions, while Indus Space makes STEAM education accessible to youth through engaging programs and products.
The market also showcases unique lifestyle and wellness brands such as Elemental Notes, specializing in holistic health solutions, and My Dorm Store, a student-founded service making dorm life easier with curated care kits. Shoppers will find creative gifts from Sleepyeve’s custom clay art and Wild Whimsy Woolies’ eco-friendly felted creatures, alongside delicious vegan desserts from Yogi Delight and positive apparel from FWPT. With such a diverse lineup, the Holiday Market is the perfect place to support U of T entrepreneurs and find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts.
“We’re thrilled to partner with U of T Entrepreneurship for the Holiday Market’s second year. This event is a testament to the creativity and drive of our university community. By bringing together student and alumni ventures in the heart of our bookstore, we’re not only supporting local entrepreneurs but also offering our campus a truly unique holiday shopping experience.” Says Jason Farrell, VP Distribution and Retail for University of Toronto Press.
About UTE:
University of Toronto entrepreneurs are creating game-changing companies and jobs of the future, bringing world-class research excellence and exceptional talent together in the heart of one of the world’s most diverse and innovative cities. The University’s entrepreneurship network offers custom support to entrepreneurs at any stage in any sector, connecting them with the people and expertise they need to start, grow and scale their ventures. U of T is ranked top Canadian university for entrepreneurship (Fast Company and Inc. Magazine) and is among the top 5 university-managed business incubators in the world (UBI Global). Entrepreneurs from the University of Toronto community have created over 1,500 venture-backed startups. In the past five years alone, they have raised over $14B CAD and created over 20,000 jobs. Learn more at https://entrepreneurs.utoronto.ca/.
About the U of T Bookstore
The University of Toronto Bookstore is more than just a place to buy textbooks—it’s a vibrant campus hub dedicated to serving students, faculty, staff, and the wider U of T community. Committed to supporting learning and campus life, the Bookstore regularly hosts events and partners with university groups. For more information, visit www.uoftbookstore.com or follow us on social media for updates.
Contact:
Jessica Scott
Director of Marketing, U of T Bookstore
[email protected]