In an era where the tech industry faces relentless disruption, the SaaS landscape stands at a critical juncture, with traditional models crumbling under the weight of innovation, and a pivotal event in Ottawa has captured the attention of founders, investors, and industry leaders across Canada. Held on November 5-6 at the Rogers Centre, this gathering has become the epicenter for reimagining Software-as-a-Service through the lens of artificial intelligence (AI) and the emerging concept of Results-as-a-Service (RaaS). With thousands in attendance and a palpable sense of urgency, the conference has ignited conversations about survival and reinvention in a sector hungry for bold direction.
This event, hosted in the heart of Canada’s capital, brought together the brightest minds in tech to confront stark realities and chart a new course. The BetaKit Keynote Stage served as the focal point for provocative ideas, drawing a diverse crowd eager to tackle the decline of conventional SaaS frameworks. From keynote speeches to interactive showcases, the two-day summit offered a platform for actionable insights, positioning Canadian tech as a potential global leader in this transformative era.
Unpacking the Event: A Hub for Innovation and Bold Thinking
The conference at Rogers Centre emerged as a critical space for the Canadian tech community, uniting stakeholders from startups to established enterprises. Its mission was clear: to address the obsolescence of traditional SaaS and explore how AI and RaaS can redefine value delivery. Designed for founders, investors, and decision-makers, the event emphasized the need for urgency in adapting to a rapidly shifting landscape.
Beyond mere discussion, the gathering aimed to inspire tangible action, a theme echoed by prominent voices on stage. Attendees were challenged to rethink business models, embrace technological advancements, and leverage Canada’s unique strengths to overcome years of underperformance. The energy in the venue was electric, as participants grappled with both the opportunities and the hard truths of building sustainable companies today.
This momentum set the stage for standout moments that defined the event. From visionary keynotes to hands-on engagements, the programming was crafted to provoke thought and foster collaboration, offering a glimpse into the future of software services in Canada and beyond.
Standout Moments: AI, RaaS, and Game-Changing Ideas
The event delivered a series of impactful segments that underscored the evolving nature of SaaS through AI integration and outcome-focused approaches. Each session and format was carefully curated to engage attendees, spark dialogue, and provide practical takeaways for navigating industry challenges. The diversity of perspectives ensured that no stone was left unturned in exploring the path forward.
A range of activities, from competitive pitches to expert panels, highlighted the depth of innovation within the Canadian tech ecosystem. These moments not only showcased emerging talent but also provided a forum for seasoned leaders to share hard-earned wisdom. Collectively, they painted a picture of an industry at a crossroads, ready to embrace transformative change.
Keynote Spotlight: Redefining SaaS with Outcome-Driven Models
One of the most anticipated sessions featured Vidyard CEO Michael Litt delivering a powerful address titled “The Death of SaaS and the Rise of RaaS.” His central argument struck a chord: the traditional SaaS model is no longer viable in a world demanding measurable impact. Litt urged founders to pivot toward products tied directly to customer outcomes, aligning pricing with financial results rather than mere usage.
His message carried a sharp call to action for Canadian tech leaders, emphasizing the need to capitalize on local strengths to reverse a trend of stagnation. Litt’s vision of integrating AI as a core component of business strategy resonated deeply, framing it as a non-negotiable step for survival. The keynote left the audience with a renewed sense of purpose, challenging them to adopt bolder, results-driven approaches.
Panel Deep Dives: AI as the New SaaS Frontier
Several panel discussions provided nuanced insights into AI’s transformative role within the industry. A standout session, “The SaaS Surge: AI, Adaptation, and the Next Growth Frontier,” led by Swish Goswami of Boardy, explored how AI enables precision in growth strategies, cutting waste and enhancing efficiency. The conversation illuminated pathways for companies to scale smarter in an increasingly competitive market.
Another compelling panel, “AI-Native vs. AI-Adaptive,” hosted by Sanjana Basu of Radical Ventures, dissected the contrast between startups built on AI from inception and those retrofitting existing systems. This debate shed light on the strategic dilemmas facing businesses today. Additionally, “Work Rewired” tackled the rise of “tiny teams,” a trend driven by AI efficiencies, offering fresh perspectives on lean operations as a competitive edge.
Hands-On Learning: Workshops and Unique Engagements
Beyond speeches, the event prioritized interactive experiences that encouraged active participation. Workshops and live discussions allowed attendees to dive into practical applications of emerging trends, fostering a collaborative environment. These sessions were designed to bridge theory and practice, equipping participants with tools to implement change immediately.
A particularly innovative format, “The Masked Investor,” captivated the crowd as an anonymous venture capitalist shared candid insights on deal-making and SaaS investment trends. This unfiltered perspective offered rare glimpses into the mind of a key industry player, blending entertainment with education. Such dynamic elements ensured that engagement remained high throughout the event.
Showcasing Talent: Startups and Competitive Platforms
Innovation took center stage with events like the PitchFest Finale Throwdown, where 25 promising Canadian SaaS and AI startups competed for a $10,000 prize and significant exposure. This high-stakes showdown highlighted the creativity and drive within the startup community, drawing enthusiastic support from attendees. It served as a reminder of the raw potential waiting to be unleashed across the country.
Complementing this was the Regional Showcase, developed in partnership with TechTO and MaRS, which spotlighted diverse tech ecosystems nationwide. The announcement of SheBoot winners further amplified the focus on inclusion, celebrating women entrepreneurs and their contributions to the sector. These initiatives underscored a commitment to nurturing talent from all corners of the industry.
Lasting Impact: Shaping the Future of Canadian SaaS
The conference distilled critical lessons for the SaaS industry, emphasizing a necessary shift from conventional models to RaaS frameworks that prioritize tangible outcomes. AI emerged as both a disruptor and an enabler, pushing companies to rethink operations, from product design to team structures. These insights signal a broader cultural shift toward innovation and accountability in Canadian tech.
Long-term implications point to Canada’s potential to lead in redefining software services on a global scale. The event’s focus on measurable results, streamlined operations through AI, and regional diversity fosters an environment ripe for groundbreaking advancements. It positions the nation’s tech sector as a contender ready to tackle historical challenges with renewed vigor and strategic clarity.
Looking back, the summit at Rogers Centre proved to be a defining moment for all who attended. As the industry moves forward, stakeholders should prioritize aligning business models with customer success, invest in AI as a core pillar, and support emerging talent through inclusive platforms. These actionable steps, inspired by the event’s bold discussions, offer a roadmap for navigating the complexities of a new era in SaaS, ensuring that Canadian tech not only adapts but thrives in the years ahead, from now to 2027 and beyond.
