Toronto, ON — October 31, 2025 — Black excellence continues to rise to new heights. Among the visionary entrepreneurs recognized at Toronto Metropolitan University’s DMZ Black Innovation Summit 2025, Chevon Riley, founder and CEO of Natural Organic Matters (NORM), was honoured with the Youth Entrepreneurship Award, celebrating his innovation, leadership, and contribution to Canada’s growing ecosystem of Black founders.

Riley stood alongside some of the country’s most promising young entrepreneurs, including Daniel Martinovic (Nodalli), Samira Mohamed (Stardoe Studio), Merveille Mukoko (Yekola), and Alexis Stackhouse (Global Elevation Network), as five trailblazers shared a $25,000 youth grant pool supported by the Government of Ontario and DMZ’s Black Innovation Programs (BIP).

A Celebration of Black Innovation and Impact

This year’s DMZ Black Innovation Summit—the largest since its inception—gathered over 400 attendees and awarded a record-breaking $400,000 CAD to Black-led startups across Canada. With the theme “Black Means Business,” the event showcased how investing in Black founders fuels economic growth, innovation, and national competitiveness.

The Summit featured influential voices such as Frank Baylis (Baylis Medical Technologies), Keshia Chanté (artist and entrepreneur), and The Honourable Graham McGregor (Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism). It also highlighted standout startups including OutreachGenius, Happly.AI, Kiwi Charge, and Cellect Laboratories, all of which are shaping the future of Canadian innovation.

The Power of Ecosystem Support

DMZ’s Black Innovation Programs have been pivotal in empowering more than 2,500 Black-identifying founders, distributing over $3 million in grants and services since 2019. Partners like Scotiabank, Capital M Ventures, Black Founders Network, and Tribe Network continue to amplify the mission of equitable access and representation in entrepreneurship.

The Youth Entrepreneurship Award, presented by Minister McGregor, not only honours the next generation of Black founders but reinforces the importance of continued investment and mentorship. Riley’s recognition at the Summit reflects this collective effort — proof that with the right support, Black founders don’t just compete; they lead.

What’s Next for Chevon Riley and NORM

As Riley continues to expand NORM’s presence across Canada and beyond, his story serves as a testament to the impact of inclusive innovation. From the labs of NORM to the stages of national pitch competitions, his mission remains the same: to merge science, culture, and community into a movement that transforms how people care for their skin and themselves.

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About NORM
NORM (Natural Organic Matters) is a Canadian skincare company rooted in science and sustainability. Founded by chemist and entrepreneur Chevon Riley, NORM develops premium natural skincare products that are clean, effective, and community-driven.
Learn more at gonorm.ca