CIX 2011: Players in Innovation Economy Share Tips with Canadian Entrepreneurs

By Pam Banks

The Canadian Innovation Exchange (CIX) is designed to facilitate new relationships and jump start business development in the Canadian economy. The one day forum took place in MaRS Discovery District in Toronto, bringing together key players in the innovation ecosystem, including entrepreneurs, investors, corporations, service providers, government, and media, to a program of visionary keynotes and
panel discussions and facilitated networking opportunities.

Below are two sessions I attended and the key takeaways from the speakers.

Marcel LeBrun of Salesforce Radian6 addressed the future of funding innovation and shared the following:

–        Sell from the beginning: aim to get the biggest customer first to build a relationship;
–        Find the purple cow: You need something remarkable in your business that intrigues your customers;
–        Build from the heart: Leave a legacy by ensuring that your business serves to transform your customer’s lives.

Charles Lax of GrandBanks Capital shares the basics with Canadian Entrepreneurs at the “How To” From Concept to Exit panel discussion:
–        Be on time;
–        Bring a business card;
–        Be able to pitch your presentation in 5 minutes;
–        Do your homework on your potential investor.

For entrepreneurs, it is essential to understand the internal thinking of the key stakeholders when it comes to securing financing for the company. CIX was able to provide a cross sectorial panel of stakeholders, including investors, entrepreneurs and enterprise level companies, to achieve this objective.

Pam is the Executive Director for RIC Centre. Pam has worked with entrepreneurs in all stages of start-up and growth through the Enterprise Centres and the Canadian Technology Networks.

The RIC blog is designed as a showcase for entrepreneurs and innovation. Our guest bloggers provide a wealth of information based on their personal experiences. Visit RIC Centre for more information on how RIC can accelerate your ideas to market.