Co-Founder & Advisor Speed-Dating
Apr
9
5:00 PM17:00

Co-Founder & Advisor Speed-Dating

Co-Founder & Advisor Speed-Dating

Description: Bringing something a little different to the Vancouver Entrepreneurs Forum this session. Join us for co-founder and advisor speed dating, a networking and pitch event for those looking to grow their teams.

​If you are a solo founder and you are seeking a Business or Technical Co-founder, this event is for you!

​If you are looking to build out your Advisory Board, this event is for you! But, above all, this is event is for those who want to build their entrepreneurial network.

What can you expect? A fun night of quick pitches and speedy conversations as you navigate the room looking for a potential business partner or industry leader to help provide guidance for your venture.

How does it work? Apply to pitch, think VEF 100 second Lightning Pitch, but you are seeking a co-founder or advisor, rather than investment. 

  • ​Can you convey an inspiring BHAG? Communicate a clear vision that says why you, why now?

  • ​Can you demonstrate a solution you have begun proving customers want in a market with exciting potential? 

  • ​What are the skills and traits you are looking for in a partner?

​SPACE IS LIMITED AND THIS IS A COMPETITIVE PROCESS.

​Applicants will be evaluated by members of the VEF board, including investors and industry experts.

APPLY TO PITCH

What’s the format? If you are accepted to pitch, you will also be offered a booth to showcase your cool tech or innovative solution.

  • ​Successful applicants will be given a badge stating whether you are looking for a Business Co-founder (because you are the tech expert), a Technical Co-Founder (because you are the business wiz), or Advisor (be specific on skill/industry)

  • ​Each presenter will have 100 seconds to present on stage using a powerpoint presentation

  • ​Speed-dating rotating between Group 1: You have the venture and Group 2: You have the skills. Each 1:1 has 2 mins to have a conversation before you move to the next person. Be prepared, be succinct.

  • ​Panel of experts will share their insights on what to consider when seeking a Co-founder or Advisor. How do you define roles, split equity, other agreements to have in place?

What’s the goal? Conversation starters and network building. Come with your call-to-action, leave with a plan to have a follow-up meeting with the high-value connections made

Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, April 9, 2024
Time: 5:00 - 8:00 pm
Location: UBC Robson Square

Speakers:

Tim Swanson, Search Partner, Corporate Recruiters & VEF Executive Board Member 

Katie Peardon, Partner, Fasken 

Mitch Richardson, Vice President , Rhino Ventures & VEF Board Member

Brianna Blaney, CEO & Co-Founder Co-Founder, Pocketed

MC: Heali Thirlwell, Commercial Real Estate Broker, CBRE & Board Member, Director of Partnerships, VEF

Panel Moderator: Elizabeth Thorsen, VEF Board Member

Agenda:

  • ​Networking 5:00 – 6:00 pm

  • ​Welcome Remarks 6:00- 6:10 pm

  • ​Lightning Pitch Presentation 6:10 – 6:50 pm

  • ​Panel & Q&A  6:50 - 7:30pm

  • ​Networking 7:30 – 8:00 pm

​​Ticket Price:

  • ​​Early Bird: $40

  • ​​General Admission: $55

  • ​​Founder $25

  • ​​VEF Members: FREE (Become a Member)

​Don't miss out on the excitement, grab your tickets now! 🎟️✨

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Meet Your Next Investor: Reverse Pitch Event
Feb
20
5:00 PM17:00

Meet Your Next Investor: Reverse Pitch Event

Meet Your Next Investor: Reverse Pitch Event
Funders will be in the hot seat pitching, then connect with them directly during the networking breaks

Description:
Are you getting ready to raise your first, second or third round of investment capital? Current venture capital market conditions feeling tricky to navigate? What are investor “must haves”?

Your funders are perhaps one of your most significant partners who will accompany you on your venture building and scaling journey. Markets are volatile and we are shifting to an environment where investor terms are leading the way. Starting this most important relationship couldn’t be more timely! Join us for this Founder / Funder reverse pitch event and connect with your next potential investor!

In this interactive session, we will have investors “reverse pitch” in three groups: Non-dilutive/Grant Funding; Early Stage, meaning Angel, Pre-Seed and Seed, followed by Later Stage, Series A and above firms. During the networking session, each firm will have a boothing table to connect with entrepreneurs directly. If you are an early-stage or growth-focused Startup, this is a do not miss opportunity!

Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024
Time: 5:00 - 8:00 pm
Location: UBC Robson Square

Speakers:

Group One - Non-dilutive & Grants

Sherry Zhao, Regional Director, Pacific, Business Development, MITACS

Stephen Miller, Grants and Incentives Manager, BDO Canada LLP

Omar Mawji, Portfolio Manager, B.C. Centre for Innovation and Clean Energy

Pat Brady, Executive Director, Industry Innovation Programs, Genome BC

Saif Hashmi, Venture Capitalist, BDC

Group Two - Early-Stage Funders: Angel, Pre-Seed, Seed Stage

Vivian Wang, Associate, Nimbus Synergies

David Hogarth, Partner, Rhino Ventures

Jesse Wiebe, Community Development Lead & Venture Partner, Startup TNT & TNT Capital

Andrew Lugsdin, Venture Partner, Brightspark Ventures

Keith Ippel, Co-Founder and Head of Growth, Spring Activator

Group Three: Later-Stage Funders: Series A +

Heather Tanaka, Investment Principal, InBC Investment Corp

Kenndal McCardle, Principal, Pender Ventures

Amy Rae, Partner, Vanedge Capital

Jay Crone, Managing Director, Deloitte Ventures

Brian Martin, Partner, Telus Ventures

Stay tuned for more updates on additional speakers to be announced soon.

Ticket Price:

  • ​General Admission: $55

  • ​Founder $25

  • ​VEF Members: FREE (Become a Member)

Agenda:

  • Networking 5:00 – 6:00 pm

  • Welcome Remarks + Lightning Pitches 6:00 – 6:15 pm

  • Reverse Pitch Presentations & Q&A  6:15 – 7:30 pm

  • Networking 7:30 – 8:00 pm

This event has limited capacity, and tickets are selling fast. Don't miss out on the excitement, grab your tickets now! 🎟️✨

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Ask Me Anything with Tara Bosch, Founder, SmartSweets & Bold Beginnings
Jan
16
5:00 PM17:00

Ask Me Anything with Tara Bosch, Founder, SmartSweets & Bold Beginnings

Ask Me Anything with Tara Bosch, Founder, SmartSweets & Bold Beginnings


Description:
Welcome Tara Bosch to the Vancouver Entrepreneurs Forum! Join us for an Ask Me Anything Fireside Chat, where Tara will share her founder journey, notable lessons along the way, and the hard truths of being a solo founder. After leading one of the fastest growing brands in North America, Vancouver founded SmartSweets had a significant exit to TPG Growth for nearly $400M. Now with Bold Beginnings, Tara has set out on her next journey of helping early-stage founders with their big ideas.

A huge thank you to Fasken Law for hosting our January VEF event and Nude Beverages, our drinks sponsor for this event.

Speakers:

Host:  Ally Bharmal, Partner, Fasken 

Speaker: Tara Bosch, Founder, SmartSweets & Bold Beginnings

Event Details:
Date:
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
Time:
5:00 - 7:30 pm
Location:
29 floor - Fasken Law

Agenda:

  • Networking 5:00 – 6:00 pm

  • Welcome Remarks + Lightning Pitches 6:00 – 6:15 pm

  • Fireside Chat with Q&A:  6:15 – 7:00 pm

  • Networking 7:00 – 7:30 pm

This event has limited capacity and you won’t want to miss out. Make sure to get your tickets before they sell out!

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In Celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week, Entrepreneurship Thrives Here: The toolkit entrepreneurs need to lead in today’s economy
Nov
21
5:00 PM17:00

In Celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week, Entrepreneurship Thrives Here: The toolkit entrepreneurs need to lead in today’s economy

In Celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week,

Entrepreneurship Thrives Here:

The toolkit entrepreneurs need to lead in today’s economy

Description

Entrepreneurship is vital to Canada’s economic well-being. Startups are largely responsible for innovations that drive technological advancements and economic prosperity for society. The complexities of building and running companies require a unique set of skills to navigate constantly evolving landscapes and often include blazing new trails. Recently the media have been reporting that the number of Canadian entrepreneurs is shrinking, in part due to the volatility of market forces, and in part, due to an aging population (i.e. established business owners exiting out).

The global challenges we face today demand innovation and resilient leadership. We need a healthy pipeline of ideas to incubate and nurture, we need support systems that help accelerate commercial success, and we need adoption on a massive scale to drive impact. Entrepreneurship is not only essential to our ability to be competitive as a nation, and drive innovation forward, but it is critical to our progress as a society. 

In this session, you will hear from a group of fearless entrepreneurs what they have learned are some of the most important skills company builders need in their toolkit in order to succeed in today’s temperamental environment.

This VEF event is proudly sponsored by Northeastern University, our Lightning Pitch sponsor for the 2023/2024 season and the host of our November VEF event. We also extend our gratitude to Nimbus Synergies, our generous drink sponsor.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, November 21, 2023

Time: 5:00 - 7:30 pm

Location: Northeastern University

Moderator: Matt Carlson, Founder & Executive Managing Director, Floorspace, VEF Board Member

Panelists:

Kathleen Reid, Formerly, Founder & CEO, Switchboard PR (acquired by Earns Cliff Strategies), now the new Head of Corporate Communications, Abcellera

Edoardo de Martin, Co-Founder & CEO, Industrio AI

Cory Sivell, Co-Founder & CEO, Retreats & Ventures - 1st Place Winner, NVBC Competition

Agenda:

  • Networking 5:00 – 6:00 pm

  • Rapid Fire Q&A + Lightning Pitches 6:00 – 6:25 pm

  • Panel 6:25 – 7:10 pm

  • Networking 7:10 – 7:45 pm


Ticket Price:

  • Early Bird: $40

  • General Admission: $55

  • Founder: $25

  • VEF Members: FREE (Become a Member)

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AI & Ethics: The conversations companies need to be having today
Oct
17
5:00 PM17:00

AI & Ethics: The conversations companies need to be having today

While using next generation technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence to scale companies, we are now also scaling our risks. The impact of our desire to become more efficient, competitive and increasingly globally minded, is equally met with fear, misinformation and anxieties over how we make our decisions to adopt these new technologies. In this session you will hear about use cases and insights covering a range of topics such as how companies (employers) adopt AI technologies for talent recruiting, hiring and HR practices; media communications, authentic content and digital rights; and data privacy, tech efficiencies and IP.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, October 17 

Time: 5:00 - 7:30 pm

Location: UBC Robson Square Theatre

Panelists:

Moderator: Steve Lowry, Executive Director, AInBC

Speakers:

Agenda:

  • Networking 5:00 – 6:00 pm

  • Lightening Pitches 6:00 – 6:15 pm

  • Panel 6:15 – 7:00 pm

  • Networking 7:00 – 7:30 pm

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Pitching the Triple Bottom Line: VC Insights on Aligning Profit, People, and Planet
Sep
26
4:45 PM16:45

Pitching the Triple Bottom Line: VC Insights on Aligning Profit, People, and Planet

Pitching the Triple Bottom Line: VC Insights on Aligning Profit, People, and Planet

This event is in collaboration with Entrepreneurship Immersion Week

About the Event:

In today's dynamic investment landscape, the integration of profit, social impact, and environmental sustainability has become a crucial consideration for both startups and venture capital investors. This panel discussion brings together experienced venture capitalists and industry experts to delve into the concept of the triple bottom line and its significance in impact investing. The panelists will share insights, strategies, and real-world examples that shed light on how startups can effectively align profit, people, and planet in their investment pitches while also providing valuable perspectives from VC investors on evaluating and supporting such ventures.

Moderator: Kookai Chaimahawong, Executive Director, UBC Sauder’s Centre for Climate and Business Solutions /Co-Chair, Vancouver Entrepreneur's Forum


Speakers:

Who Should Attend:
Impact entrepreneurs and startup founders seeking to understand how to craft compelling investment pitches that resonate with venture capitalists focusing on the triple bottom line. Additionally, impact investors, industry professionals, and anyone interested in the intersection of profit, social impact, and environmental sustainability in business and investment will find this discussion valuable.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, September 26 

Time: 4:45 - 5:45 pm

Location: UBC Robson Square Theatre

Join Us for the VEF Networking Social: 
After the panel discussion, we invite you to connect and mingle at the VEF Networking Social, taking place upstairs in the entrepreneurship@UBC co-working space from 5:45 - 7:30 pm.

Mark Your Calendars:

VEF's Annual General Meeting is scheduled on September 26 at 5:45pm at UBC Robson Square Room C680 (HSBC Hall) Classroom Level (lower level).

Tickets:

VEF Members

  • This event is FREE exclusively available to VEF Members. Additionally, complementary access to the 3-day conference. Confirm your attendance here: https://bit.ly/3E09lRQ

VEF Non-Members / VEF Community


Click here to register: REGISTER NOW

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Future of Transportation
Jun
27
5:00 PM17:00

Future of Transportation

About this Event

Future of Transportation

Future of Transportation, a collaboration with CoMotion, Translink and Invest Vancouver, as part of the Motivate Conference

Here is the main conference link: https://motivatevancouver.com


Sponsor Partners:

Presented in collaboration with:

CoMotion

Translink

Invest Vancouver


VEF June Event Partner:

CBRE

Autozen


Speakers:

Inspirational talk:

Simon Pickup, Co-Founder & CEO, Teralta 

Panel:

JR Hammond, Executive Director, Canadian Advanced Air Mobility

Elisabeth Charmley, Executive Director, Vancouver Maritime Centre for Climate; Senior Manager, West Coast Marine Initiatives, Government of BC

Brian Martin, Director & Partner, Telus Ventures

Bert Van der Stege, CEO, Harbour Air


Moderator: Heali Thirlwell, Commercial Real Estate Broker, CRBE

Lightning Pitches: 

Wei Chou, CEO & Founder, Cargo Sprout

Hossein Rahimi, Founder, Bayes Studio

Maged Shoman, Founder, CitySage

Saeed Golzar, CEO, Airble

Raymond Rei, CEO, Zero Car

Location:

Vancouver Convention Centre (West Ballroom D)

CoMotion Exclusive Offer
VEF is hosting a Future of Transport panel as part of the Motivate Mobility conference on June 27th. This conference is a collaboration between Translink, Invest Vancouver, VEF and hosted by CoMotion.

As a co-sponsor, VEF and CoMotion are offering a 30% off discount to give you full access to the event using the promo code below when you purchase your tickets. This includes a full day of programming on the 27th, the VEF panel on the 27th and also the exclusive city tours on the 28th.

Promo Code: VEF30OFF

There will be a raffle for 10 lucky attendees to go on a FREE helicopter tour, courtesy of Helijet. Attend for a chance to win!

You can register for the full conference here.

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Today’s M&A Activity: What to Know About Growth & Exit Strategies
May
16
5:00 PM17:00

Today’s M&A Activity: What to Know About Growth & Exit Strategies

About this Event

Today’s M&A Activity: What to Know About Growth & Exit Strategies

Everything you need to know about Mergers, Acquisitions and Exit Strategies.

Join us on May 16th!

Early bird tickets now available. Get them now before they sell out!

Overview:

There is no denying that today’s fundraising environment is tough, valuations are depressed, many investors are retracting and looking to provide cover for their existing portfolio companies. But we have seen these cycles before, and we have seen world changing innovations survive and thrive just the same. No matter the environment, having a clear growth plan for your company is essential, but navigating that journey can be especially challenging in a volatile market. Planning your exit strategy today, when resiliency is top of mind for everyone, will only lead to better outcomes.

So what do you need to know about M&A activity in today’s market? This VEF session will provide both strategic and tactical insights from the entrepreneurial journey and investor perspective. Our panelists will share their own experiences with the hope of helping you plan your own growth and exit strategies.

Agenda:

5:00 - 6:00 pm: Networking

6:00 - 6:20 pm: Welcome Remarks, Lightning Pitches & Community Announcements

6:20 - 7:30 pm: Moderated Panel Discussion & Q&A

7:30 - 8:00 pm: Networking

Speakers:

Panelists:

Karm Sumal, Co-Founder & Chairperson, DailyHive

Kevin Sandhu, Co-Founder & CEO, Otter

Laila Sullivan, VP Customer Success, Operto

Melanie Campbell, Partner, PwC

Moderator:

Jon Conlin, Partner, Fasken

Location:

UBC Robson Square, Theatre (Room C300)

800 Robson St.

Ticket Price:

Admission includes 1 drink ticket and light appetizers

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the event.

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BC's Human Health Ecosyst
Apr
18
5:00 PM17:00

BC's Human Health Ecosyst

About this Event

The Future of Human Health

Where is Innovation Happening in BC’s Human Health Ecosystem

From aging populations, global pandemics, access to quality healthcare, and the addiction crisis, the processes for advancing human health have been at the forefront for many of us over the last several years. If we are to truly understand what the future of patient care entails, we must first look at the necessary improvements required to strengthen how we serve our communities. BC has been a leader in the life sciences sector with companies such as Abcellera, Acuitas, Stemcell Technologies, Precision Nanosystems and Zymeworks at the bleeding edge of so many innovations. But are our systems set up to sustain us as a global hub for innovation?

In this VEF event you will hear from leaders in digital health, ageless living, psychedelic inspired medicine and more. With “TED-style” presentations, a Fireside Chat and audience Q&A, we will dive into where innovation is poised for growth and what are the challenges we need to overcome to continue to be a global leader in the life sciences sector.

Agenda:

5:00 - 5:45 pm: Networking

5:45 - 6:00 pm: Welcome Remarks, Lightning Pitches & Community Announcements

6:00 - 7:30 pm: Presentations & Q&A

7:30 - 8:00 pm: Networking

Speakers:

Inspirational Journey Presentations + Q&A (facilitated by Heali)

Dr. Alexandra Greenhill, Founder, CEO & Chief Medical Officer, Careteam Technologies

Dr. Gio Miletto, Medical Director, Omega Labs, Investor, HaloHealth

Fireside Chat (hosted by Brenda Irwin)

Michael Forbes, Founding President & Owner, the Forbes Group

Brenda Irwin, Managing Partner, Relentless Ventureshosting Fireside Chat with Michael Forbes)

MC: Heali Thirlwell, Commercial Real Estate Broker, CBRE, Vice Chair, VEF

Location:

UBC Robson Square, Theatre (Room C300)

800 Robson St.

Ticket Price:

Admission includes 1 drink ticket and light appetizers

  • Early Bird $40 (ends April 11th)

  • General admission $55

  • Founder $25

  • VEF Members: FREE (Become a Member)

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the event.

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Founder / Funder Speed Dating: Meet Your Next, Most Important Relationsh
Feb
21
5:00 PM17:00

Founder / Funder Speed Dating: Meet Your Next, Most Important Relationsh

About this Event

Founder / Funder Speed Dating: Meet Your Next, Most Important Relationship!

11 Funder Speakers Reverse Pitching to Founders Followed by a Networking Session


Are you getting ready to raise your first, second or third round of investment capital? Current venture capital market conditions feeling tricky to navigate? What are investors “must haves”?

Your funders are perhaps one of your most significant partners who will accompany you on your venture building and scaling journey. Markets are volatile and we are shifting to an environment where investor terms are leading the way. Starting this most important relationship couldn’t be more timely! Join us for this Founder / Funder Speed Dating event and connect with your next potential investor!

In this interactive session, we will have investors “reverse pitch” in two groups: Early Stage, meaning Angel, Pre-Seed and Seed, followed by Later Stage, Series A and above firms. During the networking session, each firm will have a boothing table to connect with entrepreneurs directly. If you are an early-stage or growth-focused Startup, this is a do not miss opportunity!

Host: Kookai Chaimahawong, Co-Chair, VEF and ESG Partner, Upper Stage Capital

Speakers: Reverse Pitch Presenters

Group One - Early-Stage Funders: Angel, Pre-Seed, Seed Stage

Ka-Hay Law, Impact Investor, Telus Pollinator Fund for Good

Irene Dorsman, CEO, Angel Forum and Co-Founder, General Partner and Advisory Team, Women’s Equity Lab

Hilary Kilgour, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, TheVenture.fund

Chris Neumann, General Partner, Panache Ventures
Lu Han, Partner, Lumira Ventures

Group Two: Later-Stage Funders: Series A + 

Jay Crone, Managing Director and VC, Deloitte Ventures

Kenndal McArdle, Principal, Pender Ventures

Amy Rae, Partner, Vanedge Capital

Charlie Renzoni, Investor, OMERS Ventures

Brian Martin, Partner, Telus Ventures

Steve Lowry, VP Technology Banking, Silicon Valley Bank



Forum Agenda:
5:00 - 6 pm
: Networking

6 - 6:15 pm: Welcome Remarks, Lightning Pitches & Community Announcements

6:00 - 7:00 pm: Presentations

7:00 - 8:00 pm: Networking


Location:
UBC Robson Square, Theatre (Room C300)
800 Robson St.


Ticket Price:

Admission includes 1 drink ticket and light appetizers

  • Pre-Speaker Discount (until Feb 1st at midnight) $36

  • Early Bird (until Feb 14th at midnight) $40

  • General admission $55

  • Founder $25

  • VEF Members: FREE (Become a Member)

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the event.

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Ask Me Anything Fireside Chat with Mehrsa Raeiszadeh (MintList) and Bill Hunter (Canary Medical)
Jan
24
5:00 PM17:00

Ask Me Anything Fireside Chat with Mehrsa Raeiszadeh (MintList) and Bill Hunter (Canary Medical)

About this Event

Ask Me Anything Fireside Chat

with MintList Co-Founder & COO, Mehrsa Raeiszadeh, in conversation with Bill Hunter, President & CEO, Canary Medical

If you could ask one of your most aspirational role models or mentors anything that would be super meaningful for a fast growing startup founder, what would it be? In today’s uncertain global tech and investment climate, where more measured decision-making and optimizing resources is top of mind, what “been there, done that” advice would you want to know? 

Reversing the roles, putting one of Vancouver’s most celebrated startup founders in the driver's seat with one of her long-time mentors, this event will dive into some of the most relevant topics top of mind for today’s entrepreneurs. 

This candid conversation will be led by Mehrsa Raeiszadeh, Co-Founder & COO of Mintlist. Mintlist was the winner of the 2021 NVBC competition, 2022 “Car Buying App of the Year” By AutoTech Breakthrough, and 2022 Stevie Award winner for Tech Startup of the Year (software). Just recently Mehrsa was recognized as one of Canada’s Most Incredible Women Leaders in 2022, by Bay Street Bull. Joining Mehrsa, will be 2020 Life Sciences BC Medical/Digital Technology Company of the Year and a 2021 Fast Company “Next Big Things in Tech” honoree, Canary Medical’s Founder & CEO, Bill Hunter. Prior to founding Canary Medical, Bill was Co-Founder, President & CEO of Angiotech Pharmaceuticals, another cornerstone company in BC’s life sciences sector. 

In this Ask Me Anything (AMA) style discussion, Bill will share lessons learned, notable wins and fails, and the support and mentorship valued most in his journey as a serial entrepreneur making global impact.

Host: Mehrsa Raeiszadeh, Co-Founder & COO, Mintlist

Speaker: Bill Hunter, President & CEO, Canary Medical

Forum Agenda:
5:00 - 6 pm
: Networking

6 - 6:15 pm: Welcome Remarks, Lightning Pitches & Community Announcements

6:15 - 7:00 pm: Fireside Chat & Audience Q&A

7:00 - 7:30 pm: Networking

Location:
UBC Robson Square, Theatre (Room C300)
800 Robson St.

Ticket Price:

Admission includes 1 drink ticket and light appetizers

  • Early Bird (to Jan 17) $40

  • General admission (after Jan 17) $55

  • Founder $25

  • VEF Members: FREE (Become a Member)

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the event.

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A Celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week: Going Global
Nov
15
5:00 PM17:00

A Celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week: Going Global

About this Event

A Celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week: Going Global

Presented by Futurepreneur, Silicon Valley Bank & the Vancouver Entrepreneurs Forum

In Celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week, meet some local scale-ups who have gone global! In today’s growth landscape what considerations should founders or company leaders be thinking about when expanding into new markets, including strategic priorities, recruiting and managing talent remotely, sales and fundraising strategies

In this session, you will hear from a diverse group of company founders and global executives on their journeys - wins and fails - of going global.

Presented in collaboration with Futurpreneur, a Canadian representative for the Global Entrepreneurship Week (November 14-18), and Silicon Valley Bank, a growth-oriented funding partner, VEF is thrilled to be working with these ecosystem partners.

Moderator: Caterina Papadakos, Director, Technology Banking, Silicon Valley Bank

Panelists:

Neil Aubuchon, CCO, AbCellera (Antibody discovery engine)

Simeon Garratt, CEO, Spark (Real Estate Software)

Erica Pretorius, BC Technology Industry Leader and Risk Advisory Partner, Deloitte Canada

Additional panelists are to be announced soon!

MC: Lindsay Chan, VP, Corporate Communications, H+K Strategies

Lightning Pitch Host: Benjamin Smith, Business Development Manager, Futurpreneur

Forum Agenda:
5:00 - 5:30 pm
: Networking

5:30 - 5:40 pm: Welcome Remarks

5:40 - 5:50 pm: Lightning Pitches & Community Announcements

5:50 - 6:40 pm: Panel Discussion

6:40 - 6:55 pm: Q&A

6:55 - 7:00 pm: Closing Remarks

7:00 - 7:30 pm: Networking

Location:
UBC Robson Square, Theatre (Room C300)
800 Robson St.

Ticket Price:

Admission includes 1 drink ticket and light appetizers

  • Early Bird (to November 8) $40

  • General admission (after November 8) $55

  • Founder $25

  • VEF Members: FREE (Become a Member)

Event Sponsors:

This event is in collaboration with Futurepreneur, Silicon Valley Bank & the Vancouver Entrepreneurs Forum.

VEF events are delivered by Renovo. If you have any questions please email events@vef.org.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the event.

Event co-presenter:

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The Metaverse: What's the Hype?
Oct
17
5:00 PM17:00

The Metaverse: What's the Hype?

About this Event

The Metaverse: What’s the Hype?

Presented by Frontier Collective & the Vancouver Entrepreneurs Forum

This event will bring together an intersection of communities across Vancouver’s vibrant and diverse innovation ecosystem, helping to connect the metaverse, virtual and augmented reality, web3 with other industries. The event aims to provide Vancouver's entrepreneurial community with insights as to what is happening in this space, such as key technologies and innovations, trends, how it is disrupting industries and affecting strategies. The key message we are looking to deliver is: why should you care about the metaverse, what do you need to know or should start thinking about for how these technological innovations will impact your company, other industries and is there an interplay with ESG mandates?

Moderator: Kate Wilson, Managing Editor, Vancouver Tech Journal

Panelists:

Dr. Danny Goel, CEO & Co-Founder, Precision OS Technology

Sara Johnston, Chief Operating Officer, Motive.io

Anthonia Ogundele, Founder, Ethós Lab

Forum Agenda:
5:00-5:30 pm Registration & Networking

5:30-5:50pm Welcome Remarks & Lightning Pitches

5:50-6:45 pm Panel + Q&A

6:45-7:30 pm Wrap Up & Networking

Location:
UBC Robson Square, Theatre (Room C300)
800 Robson St.

Ticket Pricing: 

In-person
Admission includes drink ticket and light appetizers

  • Early bird (to Oct 11) $40

  • General admission (after Oct 11) $55

  • Founder (tech start-ups) $25

  • VEF Members: FREE (Become a Member)

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the event.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC. If you have any questions please email events@vef.org.

Event co-presenter:

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Impact Frameworks for Early Stage Financing
Sep
28
4:30 PM16:30

Impact Frameworks for Early Stage Financing

About this Event

This year VEF is partnering with entrepreneurship@UBC Immersion Week for our September event. Kicking off our VEF fall season with excitement, this event is a great opportunity to re-connect with peers, make new connections and derive inspiration and tactical insights from some amazing entrepreneurs, innovators and change-makers. 

Session details:

Impact Frameworks for Early Stage Financing
What you need to know if you are raising early-stage capital in today’s world. In this session, panelists will discuss the frameworks they use to evaluate early stage impact-led Startups: What are investors really looking for? What are the metrics that matter? How can you recession-proof your venture? Can you have impact and be profitable?

Moderator: Ally Bharmal, Partner, Fasken Law

Panelists:

Kendal McCardle, Principal, Pender Ventures

Hilary Kilgour, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, TheVenture.Fund

Keith Ippel, Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Spring Activator

Following this session, please join us at the e@UBC Robson Square co-working space for some networking and refreshments.

Agenda:
4:30-5:30 pm Panel Session

5:30-7:30pm VEF & Friends Networking Social

Location:
UBC Robson Square, Theatre
800 Robson St.

Registration: 
Registration is free and includes attendance at the full EIW Conference.

About Entrepreneurship@UBC Immersion Week

entrepreneurship@UBC Immersion Week (EIW) is taking place September 27-29 @ UBC Robson Square, UBC Point Grey and some content online. This year's theme is Impact, Action, Experience. EIW brings together storytellers and movement builders from across our ecosystem, to share their insights on the strategies and tactics that helped them transform their ideas to impact. Last year, over 650 people joined us for a week of inspiring discussions, tactical insights and meaningful connections. 

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

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Future of Transportation
Jun
28
4:30 PM16:30

Future of Transportation

About this Event

Future of Transportation: Interactive Tech Workshop, Evening Reception and Panel

Humanity’s evolution is marked by our mobility. From walking to running, horse drawn carriages to the first car. Now we are shifting from gas guzzlers to electric supercars, from taxis to ridesharing, trains to Hyperloops. Where is transportation going next? Could it be that we will be driving flying cars within the next 10 years? With so many new technology innovations, climate considerations, sprawling urban centres and a renewed desire for global exploration, what does consumer adoption look like?

At this special VEF event we are pleased to be presenting our first ever Future of Transportation day to explore these questions and more. Please join us for the following programming:

1:00 pm - 4:30 pm – Interactive display of leading Transportation Technologies at Jack Poole Plaza

4:30 pm – Cocktail reception and Networking at the Vancouver Convention Centre, West Ballroom A

5:30-7:00 pm – Panel Discussion and Q&A

7:00-7:30 pm - Wrap up & Networking

MC: Kookai Chaimahawong , Co-Chair , VEF, ESG Partner, UpperStage.Capital and Venture Partner, The51

Moderator:

Heali Thirlwell, Commercial Real Estate Broker, CBRE

Panelists:

Sandra Phillips, Shared Mobility Architect, Ted Talk Speaker and CEO, Movmi

Jay Giraud, CEO, Damon Motors (launching the world’s fastest and safest electric motorcycle)

JR Hammond, Executive Director, Canadian Advanced Air Mobility (Policy and Testing for Flying Cars, drones and Electric Planes)

Simon Pickup, CEO of a new (stealthy) energy company, and former CEO and Co-Founder, Hydra Energy

Adam McLeod, Sales Manager, Western Canada, Lucid Motors (1,111 horsepower, 0 to 100 in 2.4 seconds)

Lightning Pitches:

7 Gen
Daanaa
DŌST Bikes
SensoDrive Technology
The Hydroflyer

Location:
Vancouver Convention Centre
West Ballroom A
1055 Canada Place

Event sponsored by: CBRE & Damon Motors

Networking Reception sponsored by: Neuron

Ticket Pricing: 

  • Early bird (to June 14) $40

  • General admission (after June 14) $55

  • Founder (tech start-ups) $25

  • VEF Members: FREE (Become a Member)

This event is in collaboration with TransLink's New Mobility Forum and CoMotion & Invest Vancouver's Motivate VANCOUVER


VEF events are delivered by New Ventures BC.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the event.

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Blockchain: The Technology Most Likely to Change the World
May
17
5:00 PM17:00

Blockchain: The Technology Most Likely to Change the World

About this Event

Blockchain: The Technology Most Likely to Change the World

Blockchain is poised to transform every industry, redefining the ways in which we transact online, share ideas and manage our data and workflows. Beyond what we might understand is the new digital currency for payments and NFT marketplaces, blockchain applications are being used for so much more. Decreasing information management complexities and costs, establishing new levels of transparency and trust, Blockchain is becoming the new medium for collaboration, integrity and self-sovereignty. Applications range from the sharing of medical data, supply chain and logistics monitoring, music royalty tracking, global financial transactions, intellectual property and personal identity security. The DNA of impact is global. While we have seen many cryptocurrency companies soar in value, is it hype? Or are we in fact standing on the precipice of the next generation of the internet?

In this session, we will explore the fundamentals of Blockchain and some of the applications that are profoundly transforming business, government and society, setting the stage for the next generation of a value-driven internet.

Moderator: William Johnson, Founder, Vancouver Tech Journal

Panelists:

Nico Christofi, Co-Founder & CEO, Signalytic

Wilkins Chung, Founder, Manifold

Victoria Lemieux, Associate Professor, Blockchain@UBC Founder & Cluster Lead

In-person Forum Agenda:
5:00-5:30 pm Registration & Networking

5:30-5:50pm Welcome Remarks & Lightning Pitches

5:50-6:45 pm Panel + Q&A

6:45-7:30 pm Wrap Up & Networking

Location:
UBC Robson Square, Theatre
800 Robson St.

Ticket Pricing: 

In-person
Admission includes drink ticket and light appetizers

  • Early bird (to May 11) $40

  • General admission (after May 11) $55

  • Founder (tech start-ups) $25

  • VEF Members: FREE (Become a Member)

Online

  • Complimentary. Link provided to watch online from 5:30pm-6:45pm

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

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Catalyzing Impact: Strengthening Our Climate Solutions Ecosystem
Apr
26
4:30 PM16:30

Catalyzing Impact: Strengthening Our Climate Solutions Ecosystem

VEF is thrilled to be back hosting our first in-person Forum in two years! We are offering a hybrid experience this month and look forward to seeing you in-person and online.

About this Event

Catalyzing Impact: Strengthening Our Climate Solutions Ecosystem

As the impact of climate change is accelerating globally, the need for immediate, scalable solutions has never been more imminent. In BC’s own microcosm of the world’s grim future, 2021 saw a heat dome responsible for 500+ deaths and a record number of forest fires, along with an atmospheric river that wiped out communities, major transportation corridors and agricultural lands, disrupting an already tenuous supply chain. BC is, however, home to an ecosystem of cleantech companies that are looking to shift this trajectory. From grassroots organizations to government, BC is poised to be a significant global leader in this space.

This VEF event will explore the funding landscape of impact-driven companies, building and strengthening our climate solutions ecosystem. From transformational startups, whose paths to commercialization have never been more urgent, to government procurement strategies and the needs of our natural resource industries, change-makers will gather for an evening of insightful discussions and actionable outcomes.

MC: Jay Crone, Partner & Investment Director, TELUS Ventures

Moderator: Michelle Sklar, EiR, Head of Venture Growth Strategy, entrepreneurship@UBC

Panelists:

Miranda Alldritt, Chief Business Officer, Bioform

Shannon Bard, Lead, Climate Venture Studio, entrepreneurship@UBC

Juvarya Veltkamp, Chief of Strategy and Operations, InBC

Mike Winterfield, Managing Partner, Active Impact Investments

Lightning Pitches:
Featuring the five finalists from the Angels for Climate Solutions competition
Taylor McCarten, Co-Founder & CEO, BinBreeze

Paul Tournier, CSO, Circular Rubber Technologies Inc.

Ishaan Kohli, Founder, SkyAcres Agrotechnologies Inc.

Saleh Jairoudi, Investor Relations Lead, Solaires Enterprise Inc.

Blyth Gill, Founder & CEO, Tradle

In-person Forum Agenda:
4:30-5:00 pm Registration & Networking

5:00-5:15 pm Welcome Remarks & Lightning Pitches

5:15-6:10 pm Panel & Q&A

6:10-6:40 pm Conversation Circles

6:40-7:30 pm Wrap Up & Networking

Location:
UBC Robson Square, Theatre
800 Robson St.

Ticket Pricing: 

In-person
Admission includes drink ticket and light appetizers

  • Early bird (to April 12) $40

  • General admission (after April 12) $55

  • Founder (tech start-ups) $25

  • VEF Members: FREE (Become a Member)

Online

  • Complimentary. Link provided to watch online from 5:00pm-6:10pm

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

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The Next Generation of Company Building and Financing: What Does it Look Like and Who is Leading the Change?
Feb
15
3:45 PM15:45

The Next Generation of Company Building and Financing: What Does it Look Like and Who is Leading the Change?

Join VEF online on Tuesday, February 15, 2022

About this Event

The Next Generation of Company Building and Financing: What Does it Look Like and Who is Leading the Change?

In celebration of February Black History month and the BIPOC community, VEF is bringing together a leading group of change-makers across our regional investment landscape who are actively funding some of the most diverse, inclusive, equitable – and impactful companies in BC and beyond. With more than $4B in investment being infused into high growth companies, along with a dozen companies reaching $1B+ valuations, 2021 was an unprecedented year in BC.

What about entrepreneurial innovation and the investment landscape are starting to change the dynamic of what company growth looks like? Is access to capital really poised to be more equitable in the near future? On both sides of the equation, how do you find your alignment in what will become your most purposeful partner?

MC:
Kookai Chaimahawong | Co-Chair | VEF and Venture Partner | The51 Food & Agtech Fund

Moderator:
William Johnson | Founder | Vancouver Tech Journal

Panelists:
Jill Earthy | CEO | InBC Investment Corp.

Shelley Kuipers | Co-Founder & Co-CEO | The51

Leah Nguyen | Investment Director | TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good

Marlon Thompson | Founder | Future Capital

Reverse Pitch Roundtable Networking:
After the panel, VEF will host virtual networking in the form of Reverse Pitch Roundtables. Breakout rooms will be hosted by a different investment firm, giving you the opportunity to connect and learn about their investment thesis.

Meet the investors:
Hilary Kilgour | Founding Investor | TheVenture.Fund

Paul Lacerte | Managing Partner | Raven Indigenous Capital Partners

Kenndal McArdle | Principal | Pender Ventures

Lightning Pitches:
Ayissi Nyemba | CEO & Founder | EMKAO Foods Inc.

Anshul Porwal | CEO, Co-Founder | NeuPeak Robotics

Ricardo E. Rivera-Acevedo | Co-Founder & COO | Viridis Research Inc.

Dr. Michael Underhill | CEO | Mesintel Therapeutics

Helen Wu | Design Director/Principal | Running Order

Event Format:
3:45 - 3:55pm: Virtual Networking
3:55 - 4:10pm: Welcome Remarks & Lightning Pitches
4:10 - 4:55pm: Panel Discussion/Q&A
4:55 - 5:25pm: Reverse Pitch Roundtables & Networking Breakout rooms
5:25 - 5:30pm: Wrap up

Ticket Pricing: 

For this event we have made a “pay what you want” model.

We have elected to add three ticket prices for our events: for each of our general admission and ‘Founder’ tickets, we will add a “virtual discount” of roughly 50% that you can select to recognize the shortcomings of a virtual rather than in-person event. We have created a zero-cost ticket for those who wish to rely on the support of their community. And we will maintain our existing ticket prices for those who wish to fully support our not-for-profit. Learn more.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

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Deloitte Global TMT Predictions 2022 with Duncan Stewart, proudly presented by Deloitte
Jan
18
3:45 PM15:45

Deloitte Global TMT Predictions 2022 with Duncan Stewart, proudly presented by Deloitte

About this Event

On January 18 join us for an in-depth look at the top Technology, Media & Telecommunications (TMT) trends set to impact the marketplace in 2022 and beyond.

The event will be streamed to you live. We look forward to having you join us online.

Duncan Stewart, co-author of the annual Deloitte Global TMT Predictions 2022 report, will detail the rapid changes that lie ahead and the new opportunities that are emerging as more aspects of our daily lives are becoming intrinsically linked to a digital world.

Check out the report.

MC:
Tony Rautava, Investment Associate, Pender Ventures

Moderator:
Erica Pretorius, Partner, Risk Advisory, Deloitte

Presenter:
Duncan Stewart, Director of Technology, Media & Telecommunications, Deloitte

Event Format: 

Virtual
3:45pm | Registration (Zoom login)
4:00-5:30pm | Presentation + Q&A

Important Note: 
The link to sign in will be emailed to ticket holders on January 17

Ticket Pricing: 
Complimentary. Thank you Deloitte for making this event available to the entire BC tech ecosystem.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC. If you have any questions please email events@vef.org.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

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Navigating an Era of Unprecedented Liquidity
Nov
30
3:45 PM15:45

Navigating an Era of Unprecedented Liquidity

Join VEF online on Tuesday November 30th

About this Event

Navigating an Era of Unprecedented Liquidity

Investment in the Canadian tech ecosystem has never been stronger, evidenced by explosive growth in venture capital flowing from investors on both sides of the border. Join our expert panel on November 30th to hear their perspectives on what this means for Vancouver entrepreneurs and how to take advantage of this when planning IPOs & exits, secondaries, growth by acquisition and the hunt for talent.

MC: Angie Schick | Executive Director | New Ventures BC

Moderator: Caterina Papadakos | Director, Technology Banking Western Canada | Silicon Valley Bank

Panelists:

Eric Bukovinsky | Partner | Yaletown Partners

Judi Hess | CEO | Copperleaf

Hugues Lalancette | Principal | Inovia Capital

Chris Neumann | Partner | Panache Ventures

Jay Rhind | Partner | Rhino Ventures

Event Format: 

3:45 - 4:00pm: Virtual Networking

4:00 - 4:05pm: Welcome

4:05 - 4:10pm: Lightning Pitches

4:10 - 5:00pm: Panel Discussion

5:00- 5:30pm: Q&A with Panel and Virtual Networking

Important Note: 

The link to sign into the Online Forum will be emailed to ticket holders on November 30th.

Ticket Pricing: 

For this event we have made a “pay what you want” model.

We have elected to add three ticket prices for our events: for each of our general admission and ‘Founder’ tickets, we will add a “virtual discount” of roughly 50% that you can select to recognize the shortcomings of a virtual rather than in-person event. We have created a zero-cost ticket for those who wish to rely on the support of their community. And we will maintain our existing ticket prices for those who wish to fully support our not-for-profit. Learn more.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

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Clean Growth Stories: Lessons from the Leaders Capturing the Climate Opportunity
Oct
19
3:45 PM15:45

Clean Growth Stories: Lessons from the Leaders Capturing the Climate Opportunity

Join VEF online on Tuesday October 19th

About this Event

Clean Growth Stories: Lessons from Leaders Capturing the Climate Opportunity

Our region has long been a hot bed of clean innovation. With the highest density of clean tech success stories of any Province in Canada, BC is home to world leaders who recognize the significant market opportunities in delivering climate solutions. Vancouver’s road to COP26 represents opportunities and pitfalls for our green entrepreneurs.

Join us on Tuesday, October 19 to hear stories from the front line of leaders who are building businesses to harness new policies, programs and markets as they take on climate change and transform our economy.

MC: Sean Elbe | Regional Director | Invest in Canada

Moderator: Juvarya Veltkamp | Director | Canada Climate Law Initiative

Panelists:

Colin Armstrong | President & CEO | HTEC Hydrogen Technology and Energy Corp.

Lori Aizer Bryenton | Vice President Marketing & Communications | CarbonCure Technologies

Cameron Burke | Partner - Technology | Fort Capital Partners

Sue Ozdemir | Chief Executive Officer | Exro Technologies

Gregor Robertson | Executive Vice President | Nexii

Lightning Pitches:

Arthur Chen | Co-founder & CEO | Verdi

Kevin Kung | Founder & CTO | Safi Organics (dba Takachar in the US)

Philip Michael Morkel | Founder & CEO | Hydragas Energy Limited

Isabella Taba | CEO & Co-founder | Blue Dot Motorworks

Event Format: 

3:40 - 3:55pm: Virtual Networking

3:55 - 4:00pm: Welcome

4:00 - 4:50 pm: Panel Discussion

4:50 - 5:00pm: Q&A

5:00- 5:30pm: Lightning Pitches & Virtual Networking

Important Note: 

The link to sign into the Online Forum will be emailed to ticket holders on October 19th.

Ticket Pricing: 

For this event we have made a “pay what you want” model.

We have elected to add three ticket prices for our events: for each of our general admission and ‘Founder’ tickets, we will add a “virtual discount” of roughly 50% that you can select to recognize the shortcomings of a virtual rather than in-person event. We have created a zero-cost ticket for those who wish to rely on the support of their community. And we will maintain our existing ticket prices for those who wish to fully support our not-for-profit. Learn more.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

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The Future of Retail
Sep
21
3:45 PM15:45

The Future of Retail

Join VEF online on Tuesday September 21st

About this Event

The Future of Retail

Please join us for our first online forum for the 2021/2022 program season.

Our panel of experts will share their perspectives on some of the shifts in consumer behaviour and how brands can adapt to capitalize on the move from brick and mortar stores to e-commerce and showrooms, from traditional ads to leveraging social media and influencers and the demand for more custom personalized and sustainable products.

MC: Scott Ellis | Account Executive, Commerce Cloud | Salesforce

Moderator: James Basnett | CEO | Shape Immersive

Panelists:

Igor Faletski | VP Product, Salesforce (formerly CEO, Mobify, acquired by Salesforce) | Mobify/Salesforce

Ian MacKinnon | Founder & CTO | Later

Riz Somji | CEO | Cymax Group Technologies

Lightning Pitches:

René Gauthier, Founder and CEO, Ecologyst

Arielle Lok, Co-Founder, Peko Produce

Valli Manickam, Founder, Plenty Hard Kombucha

Where Are They Now:

Zack Eberwein, CEO, Stoko

Christa Hull , VP of Growth, Stoko

Event Format: 

3:45 - 4:00pm: Virtual Networking

4:00 - 4:05pm: Welcome

4:05 - 4:10pm: Lightning Pitches

4:10 - 4:15pm: Where are They Now

4:15 - 5:15pm: Panel Discussion

5:15- 5:30pm: Q&A with Panel

5:30-6:00pm: Virtual Networking

This event is sponsored by:


Important Note: 

The link to sign into the Online Forum will be emailed to ticket holders on September 21st.

Ticket Pricing: 

For this event we have made a “pay what you want” model.

We have elected to add three ticket prices for our events: for each of our general admission and ‘Founder’ tickets, we will add a “virtual discount” of roughly 50% that you can select to recognize the shortcomings of a virtual rather than in-person event. We have created a zero-cost ticket for those who wish to rely on the support of their community. And we will maintain our existing ticket prices for those who wish to fully support our not-for-profit. Learn more.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

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Cyber Security: "The OMFG Report" & What Software Developers Need to KNow
Jun
22
3:45 PM15:45

Cyber Security: "The OMFG Report" & What Software Developers Need to KNow

Join VEF online on Tuesday June 22nd.

About this Event

Cyber Security: “The OMFG Report” & What Software Developers Need to Know

The past year has been like no other in cyber security and our panel of experts will discuss what is going on out there, how the bad guys are doing it and what we need to know to stay safe. The discussion will start with war stories from the field and then how hackers are penetrating the software supply chain. This is what software developers must know if they want to sell their software to large enterprises.

Please join us for our last online forum for the 2020/2021 program season.

MC: Erica Pretorius | Partner | Deloitte

Moderator: Alex Dow | Co-founder, Mirai Security

Panelists:

Rob Labbe, Director of Information Security, Teck Resources and former Security Leader, Microsoft

Robert Masse, Entrepreneur, Partner & National Leader for Cloud Security, Deloitte

Jennifer Strutt, Cyber Security Advisor, Mirai Security and former CIO, Canfor

Lightning Pitches:

Charles Tong, Managing Director, heymate!

Michelle Li, Co-Founder & CFO, Leafi Home

Peter Kostka, CEO & Founder, Machinery Analytics

Event Format: 

3:45 - 4:00pm: Virtual Networking

4:00 - 4:05pm: Welcome

4:05 - 4:10pm: Lightning Pitches

4:10 - 5:00pm: Panel Discussion

5:00- 5:30pm: Q&A with Panel and Virtual Networking

Important Note: 

The link to sign into the Online Forum will be emailed to ticket holders on June 22.

Ticket Pricing: 

For this event we have made a “pay what you want” model.

We have elected to add three ticket prices for our events: for each of our general admission and ‘Founder’ tickets, we will add a “virtual discount” of roughly 50% that you can select to recognize the shortcomings of a virtual rather than in-person event. We have created a zero-cost ticket for those who wish to rely on the support of their community. And we will maintain our existing ticket prices for those who wish to fully support our not-for-profit. Learn more.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

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Trends in Digital Health
May
18
3:45 PM15:45

Trends in Digital Health

Join VEF online on Tuesday May 18th.

About this Event

A discussion about the future of digital health. As technology migrates from the hospital to the clinic to the home and patients/consumers take more ownership of their wellbeing and healthcare outcomes, what will personalized medicine look like in five years (and beyond)? What opportunities exist for established and start up companies (and the investors that back them)?



MC: Joe Timlin | Managing Director, CIBC Innovation Banking

Moderator: Jonathan Conlin | Partner, Fasken

Panelists:

Rich Osborn | Managing Partner, TELUS Ventures

Laurent Pelissier | CEO, Clarius Mobile Health

Maryam Sadeghi | CEO, MetaOptima

Bryan Statham | Co-Founder & CEO, LifeBooster

Learn more about the event panelists here.


Lightning Pitches:

Sam Gharbi, Co-Founder, Arya EHR
David S.H. Kim, CEO, Difinity
Peder Sande, CEO, ORX
Hillary Pierce, Total Flow Cannula

Event Format: 

3:45 - 4:00pm: Virtual Networking

4:00 - 4:05pm: Welcome

4:05 - 4:10pm: Lightning Pitches

4:10 - 5:00pm: Panel Discussion

5:00- 5:30pm: Q&A with Panel and Virtual Networking

Important Note: 

The link to sign into the Online Forum will be emailed to ticket holders on May 18.

Ticket Pricing: 

For this event we have made a “pay what you want” model.

We have elected to add three ticket prices for our events: for each of our general admission and ‘Founder’ tickets, we will add a “virtual discount” of roughly 50% that you can select to recognize the shortcomings of a virtual rather than in-person event. We have created a zero-cost ticket for those who wish to rely on the support of their community. And we will maintain our existing ticket prices for those who wish to fully support our not-for-profit. Learn more.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

View Event →
The Future of Food
Apr
20
3:45 PM15:45

The Future of Food

Join VEF online on Tuesday April 20th.

About this Event

From hunting and gathering to DoorDash and Uber Eats, food is evolving! We look forward to exploring topics such as how to feed the world circa 2050, innovation in agri-tech, sustainability and the recent creating of lab grown meat.

MC:

Kookai Chaimahawong | Associate, Pangaea Ventures Ltd.

Moderator:

Heali Thirlwell | Commercial Real Estate Broker, CBRE Limited

Panelists:

Matt Anderson-Baron | Co-founder, Future Fields

Cole Orobetz | Co-founder, CEO & CFO, Alpha Foods

Mitchell Scott | CEO, The Very Good Butchers

Dhruv Sood | Co-founder & Co-CEO, Fresh Prep

Lightning Pitches:

Valerie Song, CEO & Co-Founder, AVA Technologies
Aki Kaltenbach, Founder & CEO, Save Da Sea Foods Inc.
Marc Wandler, CEO, Susgrainable
Kory Zelickson, CEO, Vejii Holdings

Event Format: 

3:45 - 4:00pm: Virtual Networking

4:00 - 4:05pm: Welcome

4:05 - 4:10pm: Lightning Pitches

4:10 - 5:00pm: Panel Discussion

5:00- 5:30pm: Q&A with Panel and Virtual Networking

Important Note: 

The link to sign into the Online Forum will be emailed to ticket holders on April 20.

Event sponsored by: CBRE

Ticket Pricing: 

For this event we have made a “pay what you want” model.

We have elected to add three ticket prices for our events: for each of our general admission and ‘Founder’ tickets, we will add a “virtual discount” of roughly 50% that you can select to recognize the shortcomings of a virtual rather than in-person event. We have created a zero-cost ticket for those who wish to rely on the support of their community. And we will maintain our existing ticket prices for those who wish to fully support our not-for-profit. Learn more.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

View Event →
Deloitte Global TMT Predictions 2021 with Duncan Stewart, proudly presented by Deloitte
Feb
23
3:45 PM15:45

Deloitte Global TMT Predictions 2021 with Duncan Stewart, proudly presented by Deloitte

About this Event

VEF and Deloitte invite you to join us on February 23, 2021 at 3:45pm PST, with Deloitte’s Duncan Stewart, co-author of the Deloitte Global TMT Predictions annual report, as he provides an in-depth look at the trends set to affect and disrupt your business.

The Global 2021 TMT Predictions report is now available. This year’s nine Predictions highlight how trends in technology, media and telecommunications are being driven and altered by the global pandemic’s economic and societal impacts.

Increased demands due to COVID-19, lockdowns, and work from anywhere are intensifying already ascendant trends in 5G, video, virtual, and cloud technology, as well as affecting growing media segments such as sports.

Read the predictions.

#DeloittePredicts

Event Format: 
There is no virtual networking for this event, the program will start at 3:45pm

3:45 - 3:55pm: Opening Remarks

3:55 - 4:00pm: Welcome

4:00 - 5:00pm: Presentation

5:00 - 5:25pm: Q&A

5:25- 5:30pm: Wrap-up

Important Note: 

The link to sign into the Online Forum will be emailed to ticket holders on February 23.

MC:
William Johnson, Founder, Vancouver Tech Journal

Moderator:
Erica Pretorius, Partner, Risk Advisory, Deloitte

Presenter:
Duncan Stewart, Director of Technology, Media & Telecommunications, Deloitte Canada

stewart_duncan1-623x350.jpg

Duncan is the director of Technology, Media & Telecommunications research for Deloitte Canada. He is a globally recognized speaker and expert on the forecasting of consumer and enterprise technology, and media and telecommunications trends. Working worldwide and across all industries, Duncan advises clients on the impact of new and existing technology, and demographic and regulatory changes to their business strategies.

Ticket Pricing: 

Complimentary. Thank you Deloitte for making this event available to the entire BC tech ecosystem.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC. If you have any questions please email events@vef.org.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

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M&A in Uncertain Times: Lessons from Successful Vancouver Exits
Jan
19
3:45 PM15:45

M&A in Uncertain Times: Lessons from Successful Vancouver Exits

About this Event

As businesses transition to a new normal, many questions remain about the impact of 2020’s serial crises on the tech sector, startup valuations and M&A activity.

Join the first VEF event of the year to hear stories and insights from entrepreneurs that have successfully sold their companies before and during the pandemic, as well as their thoughts on COVID-19’s impact on the overall M&A market. 

Topics to be discussed include:

  • When M&A makes sense for company

  • Key learnings for and from entrepreneurs, including never before told M&A stories

  • The barriers to getting a deal done

  • The importance of people and culture for successful transactions

  • COVID’s effect on business valuations and deal structure

  • Sources of M&A opportunities and deal flow implications in 2021

  • What companies should do now if they are considering buying or selling

Event Format: 

3:45 - 4:00pm: Virtual Networking

4:00 - 4:05pm: Welcome

4:05 - 4:10pm: Lightning Pitches

4:10 - 5:00pm: Panel Discussion

5:00- 5:30pm: Q&A with Panel and Virtual Networking

Important Note: 

The link to sign into the Online Forum will be emailed to ticket holders on January 19

Moderator:

Maria Pacella, Managing Partner, Pender Ventures

MC:
William Johnson, Founder, Vancouver Tech Journal

Panelists:

Graham Manders, CTO, DarkVision Technologies

Keith Marett, President, Generac

Tea Nicola, Co-Founder, CI Direct Investing

Ticket Pricing: 

For this event we have made a “pay what you want” model.

We have elected to add three ticket prices for our events: for each of our general admission and ‘Founder’ tickets, we will add a “virtual discount” of roughly 50% that you can select to recognize the shortcomings of a virtual rather than in-person event. We have created a zero-cost ticket for those who wish to rely on the support of their community. And we will maintain our existing ticket prices for those who wish to fully support our not-for-profit. Learn more.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC. If you have any questions please email events@vef.org.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

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AI in 2021: How does COVID-19 impact machine learning?
Nov
17
3:45 PM15:45

AI in 2021: How does COVID-19 impact machine learning?

About this Event

The panel will discuss the magnitude and breadth of impact of COVID-19 on commercial applications of AI/ML. What trends and changes are temporary and which will persist post-COVID-19? What dynamics will accelerate or hinder adoption?

Event Format: 

3:45 - 4:00pm: Virtual Networking

4:00 - 4:05pm: Welcome

4:05 - 4:10pm: Lightning Pitches

4:10 - 5:00pm: Panel Discussion

5:00- 5:30pm: Q&A with Panel and Virtual Networking

Important Note: 

The link to sign into the Online Forum will be emailed to ticket holders on November 17.

Moderator:

Handol Kim, CEO and Co- Founder, Variational AI

MC:
Amy Rae, Principal, Vanedge Capital

Panelists:

Elliot Holtham, Founder, Xtract ai

Jessica Yip, COO, A&K Robotics

Mohsen Khalkahli, CEO, Collisure

Rogayeh Tabrizi, CEO, Theory+Practice

Lightning Pitches: 
Steven Forth, Co-founder, Ibbaka
Sophie Wyne, CEO, ariglad
Amir Hayeri, CEO, bioconscious

Ticket Pricing: 

For this event we have made a “pay what you want” model.

We have elected to add three ticket prices for our events: for each of our general admission and ‘Founder’ tickets, we will add a “virtual discount” of roughly 50% that you can select to recognize the shortcomings of a virtual rather than in-person event. We have created a zero-cost ticket for those who wish to rely on the support of their community. And we will maintain our existing ticket prices for those who wish to fully support our not-for-profit. Learn more.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC. If you have any questions please email events@vef.org.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

View Event →
The Future of the Workplace
Oct
20
3:45 PM15:45

The Future of the Workplace

Join VEF online on Tuesday October 20th.

About this Event

Join us to hear from local companies and industry experts on how they have responded to shifting workplace requirements during the current pandemic. Learn how companies have adapted to this unprecedented challenge by adopting new policies and technologies, and what changes we can expect to see in the modern workplace once we all start going back into the office.

Moderator:

Matt Carlson | Senior Vice President, Colliers

Panelists:

Anuj Anand | Vice President, Technology Services and Solution, Ausenco

Mikael Brunet-Frappier | Workday Planning & Analytics Product Lead, IBM

Jean McClellan | National People and Organization Leader, PWC 

MC:

Scott Ellis | Enterprise Client Executive, IBM Canada

Event Format: 

3:45 - 4:00pm: Virtual Networking

4:00 - 4:05pm: Welcome

4:05 - 4:10pm: Lightning Pitches

4:10 - 5:00pm: Panel Discussion

5:00- 5:30pm: Q&A with Panel and Virtual Networking

Important Note: 

The link to sign into the Online Forum will be emailed to ticket holders on October 20.

Ticket Pricing: 

For this event we have made a “pay what you want” model.

We have elected to add three ticket prices for our events: for each of our general admission and ‘Founder’ tickets, we will add a “virtual discount” of roughly 50% that you can select to recognize the shortcomings of a virtual rather than in-person event. We have created a zero-cost ticket for those who wish to rely on the support of their community. And we will maintain our existing ticket prices for those who wish to fully support our not-for-profit. Learn more.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC.

* By registering for our events you have agreed to have your email included in our newsletters (you can unsubscribe anytime) and waive rights to any photos/videos taken at the online event.

View Event →
Investment in the age of COVID-19: Raising Capital during a Pandemic
Sep
29
3:45 PM15:45

Investment in the age of COVID-19: Raising Capital during a Pandemic

Join VEF online on Tuesday September 29th.

About this Event

While the investment world has entered a “new normal,” deals are still closing. Join VEF’s panel of active investors, as they discuss how they are investing, due diligence in the virtual world, valuations, and insights in today’s financing landscape. 

Moderator:

Nick Findler, CEO and Founder, Purple Fin Ventures

Panelists:

Alex Norman | Canadian Partner, AngeList
Meredith Powell | Venture Partner, Voyager Capital
Kathleen Kaulins | Director, Vistara Capital
Terell Sterling | Founding CEO, Go Paladin, past partner Andreessen Horowitz 

MC:

Shahab Samimi, Investment Associate, 7 Gate Ventures

Event Format: 

3:45 - 4:00pm: Virtual Networking

4:00 - 4:05pm: Welcome

4:05 - 4:10pm: Lightning Pitches

4:10 - 5:00pm: Panel Discussion

5:00- 5:30pm: Q&A with Panel and Virtual Networking

Important Note: 

The link to sign into the Online Forum will be emailed to ticket holders on September 29.

Ticket Pricing: 

For this event we have made a “pay what you want” model.

We have elected to add three ticket prices for our events: for each of our general admission and ‘Founder’ tickets, we will add a “virtual discount” of roughly 50% that you can select to recognize the shortcomings of a virtual rather than in-person event. We have created a zero-cost ticket for those who wish to rely on the support of their community. And we will maintain our existing ticket prices for those who wish to fully support our not-for-profit. Learn more.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC.

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VEF Online Forum: Supply Chain COVID-19 Impacts and Future Readiness
Jun
23
3:00 PM15:00

VEF Online Forum: Supply Chain COVID-19 Impacts and Future Readiness

Join us on June 23rd for our third and final online forum of the season.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created immediate global supply chain disruptions with lasting future impacts. Organizations need to prepare their Supply Chain for recovery and get ready for the “new normal”, which will encompass a focus on prioritizing critical material and service availability, effectively managing and minimizing supply risks, and developing capabilities for new compliance requirements. 

We will discuss tangible insights with industry experts to help navigate through the current situation and consider strategies for Supply Chain to be future ready.

Moderator: 

Mark Woods | National Supply Chain and Network Operations Offering Leader, Deloitte 

Panelists: 

Barry Katz | Senior Director, Supply Chain Operations, STEMCELL Technologies
Leon Gaber | Provincial Lead, Provincial Supply Chain Coordination Unit, Province of BC
Mark Goss | Director, Corporate Supply Chain, Seaspan ULC

Event Format: 

3:00 - 3:10: Welcome

3:10 - 3:15: Lightning Pitches 

3:15 - 4:00: Panel Discussion

4:00 - 4:30: Q&A with Panel 

4:30 - 5:00: Virtual Networking

Important Note: 

The link to sign into the online forum will be emailed to ticket holders on June 23rd. 

Ticket Pricing: 

For this event we have made a “pay what you want” model.

We have elected to add three ticket prices for our events: for each of our general admission and ‘Founder’ tickets, we will add a “virtual discount” of roughly 50% that you can select to recognize the shortcomings of a virtual rather than in-person event. We have created a zero-cost ticket for those who wish to rely on the support of their community. And we will maintain our existing ticket prices for those who wish to fully support our not-for-profit. Learn more.

This event is being delivered by New Ventures BC.

View Event →