# montreal’s startup Scene: A Double-Edged Sword
After 7+ years of building in Montreal’s startup scene, I’ve realized it’s a double-edged sword that will make or break your company. Here’s what I mean:
The good is REALLY good:
first, there’s great talent volume.
There are 4 top-tier universities, and you can hire people who came from billion-dollar companies like Lightspeed and Shopify. Outside of big hubs like SF, NYC, or Boston, it’s rare.
It’s pretty phenomenal for a “small” city like Montreal too have such a density of talent.
Second, the cost of living is actually fair.
Your team can live comfortably without burning cash like in New York. Rent won’t crush you, and you can still find food at “ramen noodle prices.”
Third, the startup community is strong.
Groups that have been HUGE help for startups like us include:
Real Ventures (shoutout Isaac Souweine), MTLAB, École de technologie supérieure Centech Propulsion / acceleration programs, District 3 Innovation, FounderFuel, TandemLaunch, and many more.
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