Our Team RIC Centre team consists of more than 100 highly qualified business professionals focused on providing RIC companies with the fastest path to success.Core TeamOur administration team has been carefully chosen for their ability to provide the highest quality support to entrepreneurs who want access to our extensive list of services. Here is the list of our administrators.Pam BanksExecutive Director Pam Banks Executive Director RICC came into existence under the visionary guidance of Pam Banks; now RICC’s Executive Director. With over 14 years of economic and business development experience in Ontario, Pam’s expertise is in developing and implementing entrepreneurial support programs by rallying collaboration from industry, educational institutions and government stakeholders. She strategically works to develop and grow the innovation capacity of emerging companies, assisting the innovation ecosystem in Peel Region to meet its full potential. James SbrollaEntrepreneur-in-Residence James Sbrolla Entrepreneur-in-Residence James is an entrepreneur and veteran of the financial and environmental industries, bringing to the table over 25 years of experience from these sectors. He is Chairman of Environmental Business Consultants and serves on several boards including Actual Media, WE Communications and BlueZone Technologies. As an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at RIC, he coaches business owners and technology developers through the process of commercialization. He is also on the Board of Directors for CHAR Technologies. Paul BarterEntrepreneur-in-ResidenceTwitter Paul Barter Entrepreneur-in-Residence Twitter Paul is a business leader and strategist with more than thirty years of experience helping technology based businesses outperform. He has deep insight into technology trends and the challenges and strategic opportunities they present. As an entrepreneur in residence at RIC, he uses those insights to help entrepreneurial startups translate technologically driven disruption into innovative products that achieve market success. Paul Barter's Website David Harris KoladaENTREPRENEUR-IN-RESIDENCETwitterLinkedin David Harris Kolada ENTREPRENEUR-IN-RESIDENCE TwitterLinkedin A seasoned financier, strategist and business builder, David combines a proven track record in Venture Capital investing (direct, fund & Corporate VC) with operational and domain expertise in the ICT and Cleantech sectors. With a top quartile career IRR, David has managed several hundred million dollars’ of venture investments, facilitated hundreds of financing and commercial transactions and raised over $6 billion in private and public equity, debt and structured finance. As an Entrepreneur in Residence at the RIC Centre, David mentors startups in fast tracking their businesses to market. Anika MurrayFinance CoordinatorLinkedin Anika Murray Finance Coordinator Linkedin Alex SensonSenior Business StrategistTwitterLinkedin Alex Senson Senior Business Strategist TwitterLinkedin Alex Senson, Senior Business Strategist, has been advising technology startups at the RIC Centre for nearly four years. He has worked with close to 1000 companies each with their own unique products/services, business models, team and challenges. Alex has a science background and holds a Master of Biotechnology degree. He also has a strong business acumen; having worked in business development, licensing and project management at a successful biopharmaceutical company. Caitlin BlundellOperations ManagerTwitterLinkedin Caitlin Blundell Operations Manager TwitterLinkedin Jennee RasavongMarketing & Events Manager Linkedin Jennee Rasavong Marketing & Events Manager Linkedin Shanelle HolderMarketing Communications Officer Shanelle Holder Marketing Communications Officer Board of DirectorsOur Board of Directors is composed of industry professionals, senior government, and academic representatives that carefully advise and guide RIC Centre to ensure that we remain current and relevant to our Clients. Take a look at our Board.Shirley SpeakmanChair, RIC Centre & Partner, Cycle Capital ManagementLinkedin Shirley Speakman Chair, RIC Centre & Partner, Cycle Capital Management Linkedin Heidi BrownManager, Entrepreneurship & Innovation Partnerships, City of MississaugaLinkedin Heidi Brown Manager, Entrepreneurship & Innovation Partnerships, City of Mississauga Linkedin Patrick McGuireHCM Global Sales Executive, Financialforce.comLinkedin Patrick McGuire HCM Global Sales Executive, Financialforce.com Linkedin Ulli KrullVice-President and Principal, University of Toronto Mississauga Ulli Krull Vice-President and Principal, University of Toronto Mississauga Ben RobertsManager, Business Development, Tourism and Culture at Town of CaledonLinkedin Ben Roberts Manager, Business Development, Tourism and Culture at Town of Caledon Linkedin Devin RamphalInnovation and Technology Sector Manager, City of BramptonLinkedin Devin Ramphal Innovation and Technology Sector Manager, City of Brampton Linkedin Trevor BinghamField Sales Manager - Toronto, Arrow ElectronicsLinkedinAreas of Expertise: IoT / Industry 4.0, Software, IT sales, B2B Trevor Bingham Field Sales Manager - Toronto, Arrow Electronics Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: IoT / Industry 4.0, Software, IT sales, B2B, Business development, Electronics Raymond KingdonManaging Director, Kingdon CommunicationLinkedin Raymond Kingdon Managing Director, Kingdon Communication Linkedin Andrew OpalaChief Technology Officer, Simmons Sharpe IncLinkedin Andrew Opala Chief Technology Officer, Simmons Sharpe Inc Linkedin Michelle ChretienDirector, Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Design Technologies (CAMDT), Sheridan CollegeLinkedin Michelle Chretien Director, Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Design Technologies (CAMDT), Sheridan College Linkedin Michael CastroSenior Director, Cyber and Information Security Risk Management, Loblaws Companies Ltd.Linkedin Michael Castro Senior Director, Cyber and Information Security Risk Management, Loblaws Companies Ltd. Linkedin Angelo RizzoCo-founder, Systems With IntelligenceLinkedin Angelo Rizzo Co-founder, Systems With Intelligence Linkedin Client AdvisorsThe backbone of our service is our extensive list of professional advisors. More than 100 professionals volunteer their time and skill to guide RIC companies to their goals. The list of our advisor skills and sectors is impressive.EveryoneClean TechnologiesFinanceLegalLife ScienceManufacturingMarketingOperations and ManagementSalesTechnologyTechnology & ICT Allen Porstner-ScheukaIndustrial Technology Advisor, NRC - IRAP, Ontario Region Allen Porstner-Scheuka Industrial Technology Advisor, NRC - IRAP, Ontario Region Amesika BaetaAccount Manager, Small Business Solutions, Export Development CanadaLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Strategic Planning, PR, Government Relations Amesika Baeta Account Manager, Small Business Solutions, Export Development Canada Linkedin Main Industry: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Strategic Planning, PR, Government Relations, Market Research Amit SachdevTechnology Strategist Amit Sachdev Technology Strategist amitsachdev@gmail.com Over 15 years of experience, with eight plus years as National technology strategist at Microsoft Canada, in diverse areas including presales, product management, enterprise architecture, mobile application architecture, business transformation, partner readiness and solution selling, across various ERP's, CRM systems, Azure, AWS, Mobile platforms & Big Data. Experienced in translating customer needs into product features, user interface design, and pricing models combined with effective storytelling & communication skills with deep technical knowledge and business acumen, to translate complex technical concepts into plain effective language to influence C-Levels, research analysts and in creating effective content/readiness programs to reach broader community & audience. Cloud technologist & enthusiast, with in-depth architectural knowledge of cloud platforms primarily AWS, GCP & Azure and vast experience in designing solutions for high availability, performance, scalability, auto provisioning etc. Enterprise framework designing for large scale enterprise applications, big data, cloud transformation, lift and shift, cloud portfolio assessment and cloud scheduling. Ana MisraDirector Finance & Investment Management, York Angel InvestorsLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital, corporate finance Ana Misra Director Finance & Investment Management, York Angel Investors Linkedin Main Industry: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital, corporate finance Bio: Ana is a result-driven executive with focus on value creation, with solid entrepreneurial and corporate experience. Ana is one of the founding members & Board members of York Angel Investors Inc. and serves as the Director of Finance. As an Executive In Residence at ventureLAB she provides guidance to entrepreneurs in all areas of the business including: strategic planning, operations, to grow to the next level and achieve successful exit. As one of the Executive members and Managing Partners of Troy Group of Companies, she has been involved in many acquisitions and divestitures including companies in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. She has earned a track record of success in managing complex business initiatives, and achieving exceptional results. During her tenure as CFO at ETL Inc. Ana was instrumental in raising equity capital and taking the company public, on the TSX Venture exchange. Andréa BrinstonLawyer, Pallett ValoLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Mergers and acquisitions, Licensing, Corporate law Andréa Brinston Lawyer, Pallett Valo Linkedin Main Industry: Legal Areas of Expertise: Mergers and acquisitions, Licensing, Corporate law Andrew CoulsonRegional Director Alliances, Slalom Consulting, IndividualLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Partnerships and strategic alliances, Sales planning, business development Andrew Coulson Regional Director Alliances, Slalom Consulting, Individual Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Partnerships and strategic alliances, Sales planning, business development Andrew YoshiokaPresident, Sanbonki Inc.LinkedinAreas of Expertise: Healthcare (general), Pharmaceuticals, Biotech Commercialization Andrew Yoshioka President, Sanbonki Inc. Linkedin Main Industries: Life Science and Advanced Health Areas of Expertise: Healthcare (general), Pharmaceuticals, Biotech Commercialization, Licensing, Strategic planning, Operational efficiency, Executive management Bio: Andrew is President of Sanbonki Inc. a management consulting firm creating asset value, which he founded after a diverse 25 year career in the pharmaceuticals and biotechnology industry. His generalist knowledge comes from focusing on the customer and achieving results in a variety of roles ranging from product development, general management of a corporate turnaround, and commercialization including sales and marketing and business development positions. He has prepared the team for due diligence activities and completed four merger integration programs with large public traded multinational, small national, and small private venture capital funded startup companies. Axel KuhnPrincipal and Co-founder, EPath Consulting Inc.LinkedinAreas of Expertise: e-Commerce, Web Analytics, Strategic Planning Axel Kuhn Principal and Co-founder, EPath Consulting Inc. Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: e-Commerce, Web Analytics, Strategic Planning, Sales Training, CRM, B2B, B2C, Customer Management Bio: Axel Kuhn has pioneered eBusiness and eMarketing solutions since the mid-90′s for leading companies – both multinational and SMB – across North America and Europe. He is a serial entrepreneur, having founded and led several businesses in the Internet technology and technology services markets, including Canada’s top-ranked technology marketing firm. Axel holds a B.A.Sc. from the University of Toronto, an M.B.A. from the Queen’s School of Business, and an M.B.A (with distinction) from the S.C. Johnson Graduate School of Management at Cornell University. Axel currently teaches eCommerce and eBusiness to business professionals at the University of Toronto. Baraa El-KadriIndustrial Technology Advisor, Industrial Research Assistance ProgramLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Government relations, Product management, Cloud (software) Baraa El-Kadri Industrial Technology Advisor, Industrial Research Assistance Program Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Government relations, Product management, Cloud (software), Marketing Strategy, Hardware Barb AndersonCRO, Method Integration, IndividualLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Digital marketing, Sales (general), Strategic alliances Barb Anderson CRO, Method Integration, Individual Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Digital marketing, Sales (general), Strategic alliances, SaaS, CRM, B2B Bio: Over the past 17 years Barb has worked in technology companies serving small and medium sized businesses. She's held leadership positions in start-up and mature environments, ranging from Chief Revenue Officer at Method:CRM to Head of Small Business Marketing at Intuit Canada. Her areas of expertise include Marketing, Sales, Product Management and Customer Success. Barrie LaverMANAGING DIRECTOR, RBC CAPITAL PARTNERSLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital, Marketing Strategy, Strategic Planning Barrie Laver MANAGING DIRECTOR, RBC CAPITAL PARTNERS Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital, Marketing Strategy, Strategic Planning Bernie SchmidtConversion Strategist, Profitable ConversionsLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Digital Marketing, Marketing automation, Web Analytics Bernie Schmidt Conversion Strategist, Profitable Conversions Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Digital Marketing, Marketing automation, Web Analytics, Project management, Software, SaaS, B2B Bob AlsipBusiness Development Consultant, SoftAdvantage Inc.LinkedinAreas of Expertise: Marketing, sales and organisational development; Strategic planning & alliances; Distribution channels Bob Alsip Business Development Consultant, SoftAdvantage Inc. Linkedin Main industries: Software & environmental technologies, medical & industrial products & services Areas of Expertise: Marketing, sales and organisational development; Strategic planning & alliances; Distribution channels Bio: Bob is presently a principle in a Business Consulting firm – SoftAdvantage Inc. The common thread, in all his senior sales, marketing and administration roles over the past 35+ years, has been the building of successful businesses through innovative approaches in market, product, & organizational development. He has been successful at growing sales, coaching organizations, establishing new business ventures, setting up distribution channels & alliances, creating corporate identity and repositioning companies to achieve the business goals. His diversified experience in technology (software and environmental), medical products & services and industrial products in both the entrepreneurial and corporate settings has given him a broad perspective in addressing a wide range of business issues. Bob GilsonADVISORY BOARD MEMBER, NXL ARCHITECTSLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Corporate finance, Raising funds, Exit strategies, Mergers and acquisitions Bob Gilson ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER, NXL ARCHITECTS Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Corporate finance, Raising funds, Exit strategies, Mergers and acquisitions, Stretegic planning Brenda HoganOntario Capital Growth CorporationLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Corporate finance Brenda Hogan Ontario Capital Growth Corporation Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Corporate finance Bruce AnnisVP Sales and Marketing, Knectek Labs Inc.LinkedinAreas of Expertise: Software sales, Digital Marketing, Product Management Bruce Annis VP Sales and Marketing, Knectek Labs Inc. Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Software sales, Digital Marketing, Product Management, e-Commerce Bio: Bruce has held senior executive roles at SONY and Samsung Canada. He was part of the pre-acquisition team at Intrigue Technologies, inventors of the Harmony remote control. He was instrumental in setting up retail sales and distribution across North America for this business which was acquired by Logitech. Bruce also managed global sales and operations for BlackBerry mobile accessories. He holds an M.B.A. from the Schulich School of business and a Bachelor Commerce from the University of Toronto. Cam WykesChief Experience Officer, PwC, IndividualLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Business development, Digital marketing, Web Analytics Cam Wykes Chief Experience Officer, PwC, Individual Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Business development, Digital marketing, Web Analytics Carmen ChiarelloAccount Development Representative, Arrow ElectronicsLinkedin Carmen Chiarello Account Development Representative, Arrow Electronics Linkedin Chris WelshPartner, Four Corners GroupLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Telecommunications, Corporate Finance, Strategic Alliances Chris Welsh Partner, Four Corners Group Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT, Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Telecommunications, Corporate Finance, Strategic Alliances Bio: Chris has been in the recruitment industry since 1999, spending 15 years with Canada’s largest Technology and Engineering recruitment firm – Randstad Canada. As Senior Vice President of Enterprise Solutions Chris led the National Search Practice for both Engineering and Technology, Enterprise Accounts in Financial Services and Telecommunications, and was Country Manager for Recruitment Process Outsourcing and the Managed Service Provider businesses. In 2015, Chris joined the Executive Search Firm Four Corners Group as a Partner; where he helps companies recruit and retain top leadership talent. Chris’ focus is on technology companies that are looking to accelerate their growth through the acquisition of game changing talent. Clement NgGreen Century Investment Ltd., IndividualLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Business development, Team management, Mergers & Acquisitions Clement Ng Green Century Investment Ltd., Individual Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT, Clean Technologies Areas of Expertise: Business development, Team management, Mergers & Acquisitions, Strategic Planning, Strategic Alliances Colleen CroninPresident, InsightONELinkedin Colleen Cronin President, InsightONE Linkedin Corinne SharpPresident, Sharp Perspective Inc.LinkedinAreas of Expertise: Strategic alliances, Marketing strategy, Executive Management Corinne Sharp President, Sharp Perspective Inc. Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Strategic alliances, Marketing strategy, Executive Management, Strategic planning, SaaS, Cloud (software), Sales planning, CRM Bio: Corinne Sharp has been working within the IT sector for over 20 years. As the President of Sharp Perspective, she is helping clients with their sales, channel and talent strategies. Throughout her career in sales and marketing, she has lived and breathed both direct and indirect sales. Having a deep understanding of your customer’s business, and building a collaborative selling strategy, is the foundation for success as long as you have the right people on your team. Corinne is an active Advisor to the Canadian Channel Chiefs Council. She is also a certified Predictive Index Consultant helping clients with their Talent Strategies. Craig LeonardInvestment Director, Investment Accelerator FundLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital, Digital marketing, Cloud (software) Craig Leonard Investment Director, Investment Accelerator Fund Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media, Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital, Digital marketing, Cloud (software), SaaS, CRM, e-Commerce David McGaugheyDirector of Sales - Mobile Security | Giesecke+Devrient Mobile SecurityLinkedin David McGaughey Director of Sales - Mobile Security | Giesecke+Devrient Mobile Security Linkedin David McGaughey is a Business to Business (B2B) sales leader who enjoys helping software and hardware vendors exceed their sales goals. David successfully applies the principle that creatively bridging technology to a customer's unique challenges results in long-term, loyal clients. He has 20+ years of successful experience managing complex proposals, solutions and contract negotiations related to IT and Telecom voice and data networking, Internet of Things and Mobile Security. David honed his skills and knowledge while working for companies such as Nortel, Alcatel-Lucent, DSC Communications, Telica, Infinera, Huawei and G+D Mobile Security. He is a member of the Professional Engineers of Ontario. In his spare time David enjoys canoeing, camping and skiing with his family and friends. David PentonDirector, Southern Ontario Fund for Innovation and Investment (SOFII)LinkedinAreas of Expertise: Corporate finance, Raising capital David Penton Director, Southern Ontario Fund for Innovation and Investment (SOFII) Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Corporate finance, Raising capital David ShermanPrincipal, Briar Hill Capital CorpLinkedin David Sherman Principal, Briar Hill Capital Corp Linkedin Derrek S. LennoxManaging Partner, Kewin ConsultingLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Strategic Planning, Corporate Finance Derrek S. Lennox Managing Partner, Kewin Consulting Linkedin Derrek Lennox has worked with Large and Small businesses, Organizations, First Nations, Métis Settlements, and individuals on organization excellence and economic development for more than 12 years. He has an MBA Degree from the Schulich School of Business, York University, and has a Professional Engineering Degree from the University of Waterloo. He also maintains his Licensed Professional Engineering status. Previously, he worked for Andersen Consulting, Digital 4Sight, Managerial Design and as an independent consultant on various projects and multi-client engagements with clients including: Royal Bank Ventures, Black & McDonald, Sick Kids Hospital, Citizens Bank, CIBC, TD Canada Trust, Parker, Deeley Harley Davidson Canada, IBM, Stardata Systems, i2 Technologies, Glaxo SmithKline, and Canaccord Financial. Derrek instructs at the MBA Level at the Schulich School of Business and has been published on various topics related to culture preservation, business, and Aboriginal Economic Development. Main Industries: Advanced Manufacturing Energy and fuel (gas distributors and gas stations) CleanTech (solar and wind) FinTech (Including mortgages) Digital Media & ICT (gaming, animation and special effects, film and TV production) Automotive (car dealerships) Areas of Expertise: Strategic Planning Organizational Restructuring Stakeholder Analysis, Engagement, Consultation and Alignment Organizational Excellence and Change Management Licensing First Nations and indigenous peoples Devin RamphalInnovation and Technology Sector Manager, City of BramptonLinkedin Devin Ramphal Innovation and Technology Sector Manager, City of Brampton Linkedin Don HiltonFounder and Managing Partner, Distinct Capital Partners Inc.LinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital Don Hilton Founder and Managing Partner, Distinct Capital Partners Inc. Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital Doug KeaneyPrincipal, DBKA Professional ServicesLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Sales (general), Marketing strategy, Operational efficiency Doug Keaney Principal, DBKA Professional Services Linkedin Main Industries: Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Areas of Expertise: Sales (general), Marketing strategy, Operational efficiency, Customer management, Strategic planning, Sales training, Manufacturing Bio: Doug was raised and educated in London, ON. He began his business career at 3M Canada in 1961 and over his 23 years at the Company, Doug was privileged to be a part of 3M’s leadership development programs. His areas of focus were Customer Service, Sales & Marketing, Product Management & Business Development. While at 3M Canada, Doug achieved status as a Certified Industrial Manager from the Ivey School and the University of Western Ontario. When Doug moved on from 3M Canada, he began a 20 plus year career in small and medium sized Canadian businesses. His responsibilities were at the Executive Management level including Operations, Sales & Marketing & Business Development. During Doug’s career as a consultant, he has focused on small & medium private companies providing counsel and support in wide variety of business areas: business development, product management, training and coaching, operations support, sales & marketing, goal setting and business planning, mentoring and developing plans to attract investment financing. Doug Osborne Business Execution Specialist, Dougs UnlimitedLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Product Management, Team management, Executive Management Doug Osborne Business Execution Specialist, Dougs Unlimited Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Product Management, Team management, Executive Management, Raising capital, Business development Bio: As a principle of Doug’s Unlimited Inc., Doug is an active Angel Investor in a variety of industry sectors; an active Board Member in several early-start businesses; while also providing ongoing practical business and strategic direction to both early-start and mature businesses through personal coaching & mentoring. Doug utilizes his broad experience and successes of 30 years in product management, purchasing, marketing, sales and manufacturing to assist others. Eric SpearinPresident, Transervice Integrated SolutionsLinkedin Eric Spearin President, Transervice Integrated Solutions Linkedin Main Industries: Software and Hardware, Logistics Areas of Expertise: Software, Logistics, Supply Chain, Scaling Companies, and Raising Capital. Bio: Eric Spearin specializes in merging new software technologies within the logistics and supply chain industry. Eric founded the logistics software company Logistadvise in 2014 and a year later received a private equity investment to form Transervice Integrated Solutions (TIS). TIS works with Fortune 500 companies in the US & Canada to automate their freight transportation which results in significant cost savings. Prior to starting his own company, Eric has worked in the logistics and supply chain industry for a number of companies including Penske Logistics, Ford Motor Company, CAT, and Logistics Marketing Services. Eric has recently returned to the Greater Toronto Area to expand Transervice Integrated Solutions into the Canadian market and looks forward to contributing to the local start up community. Eric can provide expertise in software development, logistics & supply chain, scaling companies, and raising capital. Eric holds a BA from York University and an MBA from the Bradford School of Management in the United Kingdom. Fardan KhanBusiness Development Manager, FuturpreneurLinkedin Fardan Khan Business Development Manager, Futurpreneur Linkedin Frank GairdnerCo-founder of TriggerTech, CEO of Carbon MarineLinkedinAreas of Expertise: IP, Manufacturing, Operational Efficiency, Sales (general) Frank Gairdner Co-founder of TriggerTech, CEO of Carbon Marine Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT, Manufacturing Areas of Expertise: IP, Manufacturing, Operational Efficiency, Sales (general), Digital Marketing, B2B, B2C, Raising Capital, Commercialization Gail Mercer-MacKayChief Digital Storyteller, Mercer-MacKay Solutions IncLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Sales (general), Business Development, Commercialization Gail Mercer-MacKay Chief Digital Storyteller, Mercer-MacKay Solutions Inc Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Sales (general), Business Development, Commercialization, B2B, B2C, Raising Capital Geoff SimonettCFO at WellnessLivingLinkedin Geoff Simonett CFO at WellnessLiving Linkedin Graham McBrideFundThrough, IndividualLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital, Strategic planning, Executive management Graham McBride FundThrough, Individual Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital, Strategic planning, Executive management, corporate finance Greg StewartPrincipal, Greensky Capital Inc.LinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital, Corporate Finance Greg Stewart Principal, Greensky Capital Inc. Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital, Corporate Finance Howard OliverFounder & CEO, What If What NextLinkedinAreas of Expertise: IoT / Industry 4.0, Digital marketing, Content marketing Howard Oliver Founder & CEO, What If What Next Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: IoT / Industry 4.0, Digital marketing, Content marketing, PR, Strategic planning Ian LockeManaging Director, Linian SolutionsLinkedin Ian Locke Managing Director, Linian Solutions Linkedin Ian Locke has more than twenty years of experience in the global high technology industry, including international sales and marketing expertise. Ian is a Venture Partner with The Entrepreneur’s Fund IV, in San Mateo, CA and is on the advisory Boards of Prophix, SceneDoc and SalesChoice. Ian was Managing Director with Jefferson Partners, a Venture Capital firm and is a cofounder of Jefferson Fund IV (2001-2009). Ian served as interim CEO at Avotus Corporation(Enterprise Expense Management) and Borderware (Messaging Security), Jefferson Fund IV portfolio companies. Ian has a unique perspective in the Canadian technology industry as a result of his experience in Silicon Valley. In particular, Ian has been able to use his international network with Canadian companies to help them develop and prosper. Prior to joining Jefferson Partners, Ian was based in Silicon Valley in senior management positions with Netscape Corporation and Oracle Corporation. Ian returned to Toronto to become President and Chief Operating Officer of The docSpace Company which was sold to Critical Path (NASDAQ:CPTH) for US $568 million. At Netscape Corporation, headquartered in Mountain View, CA, Ian served as Senior Vice President, Worldwide Alliances and Marketing, and Vice President North American Alliances. During his tenure in Mountain View, Netscape's sales grew from $40 million to over $500 million annually. Ian also played a key role in the integration of Netscape into America Online, Inc. with the resulting SUN-Netscape Alliance following the acquisition of Netscape by American Online Inc. Ian began his career at NCR Corporation in sales and sales management roles. Ian has served on the Boards of Attensity Corporation (acquired by Aeris Capital), Avotus Corporation, Borderware (acquired by Watchguard), Accept Software (acquired by Artemis) and Storage Appliance Corporation. Ian has made personal investments into Istante Software (acquired by Oracle Corp), Webify (acquired by IBM) and Soasta Inc. (acquired by Akami). Ian holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the Joseph L. Rotman School of Management and a Bachelor of Business Management from Ryerson University. Inez BlackburnPresident, Market Techniques and InnovationsLinkedin Inez Blackburn President, Market Techniques and Innovations Linkedin Irwin RajPresident, Indigo Marketing Solutions LtdLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Sales (general), Digital Marketing, Distribution Irwin Raj President, Indigo Marketing Solutions Ltd Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Sales (general), Digital Marketing, Distribution, Sales Planning Bio: Mr. Irwin Raj is a specialist in Marketing & International Project Consulting. His areas of expertise in Marketing include Brand Management, Retail Visibility consulting, creation of Marketing plans and Sales & Distribution Management. In International project consulting, he specialises in the India corridor, identifying Investment / Joint Venture / Take over opportunities for his clients in Canada. In converse, he also assists clients in India who are looking for partnerships with Canadian companies. Mr. Raj is an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta, one of India’s Ivy league Business school’s. Having started his career in Banking (American Express Bank & later HSBC), he decided to go on his own and set up a Retail Visibility consulting business in 1994. Today his clients include Unilever, Pepsico, Nestle, Nokia & Kraft Foods amongst others. With over 20 years of experience servicing many large Multinational and SME clients, Mr. Raj is known for his professional approach, keen eye for detail and excellent communication skills. His ability to understand client requirements, his in depth knowledge of diverse markets and his positive attitude ensures excellent customer service and client satisfaction. James AldenVP STRATEGY, BRICKWORKS COMMUNICATIONSLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Energy efficiency, Renewable energy, Strategic Planning James Alden VP STRATEGY, BRICKWORKS COMMUNICATIONS Linkedin Main Technologies: Clean Technologies Areas of Expertise: Energy efficiency, Renewable energy, Strategic Planning Jamie BarronTechnology and Life Sciences, BDO Canada LLPLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Telecommunications, Corporate Finance Jamie Barron Technology and Life Sciences, BDO Canada LLP Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Telecommunications, Corporate Finance Jess JossExecutive Director, York AngelsLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital, corporate finance, social media marketing Jess Joss Executive Director, York Angels Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital, corporate finance, social media marketing Joanna MaAssociate, Bereskin & Parr LLPLinkedin Joanna Ma Associate, Bereskin & Parr LLP Linkedin John GarrowCFO, fanxchangeLinkedin John Garrow CFO, fanxchange Linkedin Jonathan LoudonPartner, Swave StudiosLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Medical devices, Product management Jonathan Loudon Partner, Swave Studios Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Medical devices, Product management Julie LukkarilaBusiness Development Manager, Ontario Centres of ExcellenceLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Business development, Strategic alliances, Pharmaceuticals Julie Lukkarila Business Development Manager, Ontario Centres of Excellence Linkedin Main Industry: Life Science and Advanced Health Areas of Expertise: Business development, Strategic alliances, Pharmaceuticals Kevin ClimansKlass Capital, IndividualLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital, corporate finance Kevin Climans Klass Capital, Individual Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital, corporate finance Kevin SmithChief Story Architect, Impact Assured Business Services --> The Story ArchitectLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Digital marketing, Content marketing, Analytics marketing, Kevin Smith Chief Story Architect, Impact Assured Business Services --> The Story Architect Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Digital marketing, Content marketing, Analytics marketing, Sales training, Business development Lahav GilFounder, Bauhaus Innovation VenturesLinkedin Lahav Gil Founder, Bauhaus Innovation Ventures Linkedin Louis SapiCEO, HS Partners LLPLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Strategic Planning, Tax/SR&ED, Corporate Finance Louis Sapi CEO, HS Partners LLP Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Strategic Planning, Tax/SR&ED, Corporate Finance Bio: Louis graduated from the world renowned Schulic School of Business in 1986 with an MBA and obtained his CA designation in 1985. He established his Chartered Accounting practice as a sole proprietor in 1986 where today he is the managing Partner & CEO, of HS & Partners LLP, Chartered Accountants with 25 professionals practicing in various areas; audits of not-for-profit organizations and Listed (Public) companies, specialty investigative audits, accounting and systems engagements for medium to large clients', sophisticated tax planning for corporate and personal and estate planning for executives and owner-entrepreneurs. Aside from the CA firm, Louis has been very engaged in life. He has been entrepreneurial and philanthropic having owned numerous business interests, participating in many charitable endeavors, authoring numerous articles and a book and speaking at various events and conferences over the years. He has also sat on numerous boards in the private, public and charitable sectors. Lyle ClarkePresident & C.E.O, Lyle Clarke & Associates Inc.LinkedinAreas of Expertise: Sustainability, Commercialization, Strategic alliances Lyle Clarke President & C.E.O, Lyle Clarke & Associates Inc. Linkedin Main Industries: Clean technologies Areas of Expertise: Sustainability, Commercialization, Strategic alliances , Bio: Lyle Clarke is a “clean tech” specialist focusing on recycling, waste recovery, resource conservation and management. He also advises product manufacturers, retailers and others with an interest in recycling, sustainability, and product stewardship. The consumer products business has undergone profound change. Government-mandated recycling and product stewardship programs that reached Canada almost fifteen years ago continue to grow, doubling costs every few years. At the same time, intense competition is restricting margins and market share, necessitating diligent cost control throughout the supply chain. The pressure to improve environmental performance will continue to intensify, and precipitate continual change. Success will flow to those that understand where change is leading, what impact it will have, and how best to respond. Lyle Clarke is uniquely capable of helping his clients understand how pressures for environmental change impact business, to craft and execute effective strategies to manage risk and control costs, and to leverage innovation to exploit new opportunities. Lyle has extensive knowledge accumulated over many years in the retail sector, as a Board Director for Waste Diversion Ontario and Stewardship Ontario, and most recently as the head of Stewardship Ontario, one of Canada's leading product stewardship organizations. Lyle has spearheaded many innovative changes that generated new opportunities for companies that collect, recycle and manage resources; he has attracted substantial new investment to the sector, and he has saved Canadian and global retailers and packaged goods companies many millions of dollars. Maria da SilvaSenior Manager, BDO Canada LLPLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Corporate finance, Raising capital Maria da Silva Senior Manager, BDO Canada LLP Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Corporate finance, Raising capital Mark MajewskiBusiness Development Manager, Ontario Centres of Excellence (OCE)Linkedin Mark Majewski Business Development Manager, Ontario Centres of Excellence (OCE) Linkedin Mark NashmanCEO, MBN CAPITALLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital, corporate finance Mark Nashman CEO, MBN CAPITAL Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital, corporate finance Mark SilversteinPresident, Silversteins Holdings Inc.Linkedin Mark Silverstein President, Silversteins Holdings Inc. Linkedin Michael DemoneCommunication Counsel (Strategy for Startups) | Consultant Lobbyist (Canadian Industrial Hemp Consulting) Linkedin Michael Demone Communication Counsel (Strategy for Startups) | Consultant Lobbyist (Canadian Industrial Hemp Consulting) Linkedin Michael Demone is a Government Relations professional who helps startups tell their stories to audiences that matter. He works with leaders in government, business, and academia to help innovators carry their projects from concept to commercialization. He’s worked with the Xerox Research Centre of Canada, PARC, and the National Research Council of Canada. He supported the Xerox Research Centre of Canada’s rise to internationally-recognized innovation hub, credited with helping Toronto make the list of Top 10 Cities for Corporate innovation. Michael leads the Canadian Working Group on Industrial Hemp. Michael ListPrincipal, Greensky Capital Inc.LinkedinAreas of Expertise: Corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, raising capital Michael List Principal, Greensky Capital Inc. Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, raising capital Michele RebiereChief Financial Officer & Director, Viridis Energy Inc.Linkedin Michele Rebiere Chief Financial Officer & Director, Viridis Energy Inc. Linkedin Mike BoydExecutive, Argosy PartnersLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital, Strategic Planning Mike Boyd Executive, Argosy Partners Linkedin Main Industry: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital, Strategic Planning Mike VanderleePRESIDENT, CLIP LEVEL DISTRIBUTIONLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Strategic planning , Sales planning, Digital marketing Mike Vanderlee PRESIDENT, CLIP LEVEL DISTRIBUTION Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Strategic planning , Sales planning, Digital marketing, IT sales Mustafa TemizManaging Director, DEKRA, IndividualLinkedinAreas of Influence: Strategic Planning,Business Development, Operational efficiency Mustafa Temiz Managing Director, DEKRA, Individual Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Influence: Strategic Planning,Business Development, Operational efficiency Nicole De LongBusiness Development Manager, Ontario Centres of Excellence (OCE)Linkedin Nicole De Long Business Development Manager, Ontario Centres of Excellence (OCE) Linkedin Paul WalkerBDO Canada LLPLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Corporate finance, raising capital, Tax/SR&ED Paul Walker BDO Canada LLP Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Corporate finance, raising capital, Tax / SR&ED Peng FuChief Executive Officer, Novatio Ventures, IndividualLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital, corporate finance Peng Fu Chief Executive Officer, Novatio Ventures, Individual Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital, corporate finance Peter BelshawPresident /CEO, Best Sensors IncLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals and Drugs, Biotech Peter Belshaw President /CEO, Best Sensors Inc Linkedin Main Industries: Life Science and Advanced Health Areas of Expertise: Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals and Drugs, Biotech Peter JonesSenior Business Advisor Business Advisory Services Central Region (Mississauga), Ministry of Economic Development Employment & InfrastructureLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Government relations, strategic planning Peter Jones Senior Business Advisor Business Advisory Services Central Region (Mississauga), Ministry of Economic Development Employment & Infrastructure Linkedin Main Industry: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Government relations, strategic planning Raymond KingdonManaging Director, Kingdon CommunicationLinkedin Raymond Kingdon Managing Director, Kingdon Communication Linkedin Richard BlundellSenior Director, Corporate Innovation Networks, MaRS Discovery DistrictLinkedin Richard Blundell Senior Director, Corporate Innovation Networks, MaRS Discovery District Linkedin Richard BurdeniukSenior Manager, BDO Canada LLPLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Corporate finance, Tax/SR&ED Richard Burdeniuk Senior Manager, BDO Canada LLP Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Corporate finance, Tax / SR&ED Richard LeeLinkedin Richard Lee Linkedin Richard ZsoltAssociate, Eventi Capital PartnersLinkedin Richard Zsolt Associate, Eventi Capital Partners Linkedin Rick HuffManaging Director, Huff CapitalLinkedin Rick Huff Managing Director, Huff Capital Linkedin Rob SchockManager, Central Region, Ontario Investment Office, Ministry of Economic Development, Trade and EmploymentLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital, government relations Rob Schock Manager, Central Region, Ontario Investment Office, Ministry of Economic Development, Trade and Employment Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital, government relations Rodger KingOwner, Starfield Consulting Ltd.LinkedinAreas of Expertise: Sales (general), Operational efficiency, Healthcare IT Rodger King Owner, Starfield Consulting Ltd. Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT, Life Science and Advanced Health Areas of Expertise: Sales (general), Operational efficiency, Healthcare IT Bio: Rodger King has over 30 years of business experience in a variety of management functions. Skilled in the operationalization of businesses, Rodger primarily works with IT startups that have disruptive technologies, processes or structure. He assists those companies to build momentum and develop wedge strategies to increase sales (market mass) or improve speed (velocity) to market. These have ranged from the creation of a medium sized manufacturing facility to the preparation for sale of a major marketing and creative agency, to the restructuring of the marketing function of a healthcare supply organization to increase revenues over 350% over a period of 14 months. Rodger is an active board member and advisor for several startups. Stephen BeneyPartner, Bereskin & Parr LLPLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Mergers and acquisitions, IP (Patents and trademarks), Litigation Stephen Beney Partner, Bereskin & Parr LLP Linkedin Main Industry: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Mergers and acquisitions, IP (Patents and trademarks), Litigation, Licensing,Corporate law Stuart BrowneCEO & Founder, Pycap Venture PartnersLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital, sales (general) Stuart Browne CEO & Founder, Pycap Venture Partners Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital, sales (general) Sue ElliottPrincipal, Virtus Insights Inc.LinkedinAreas of Expertise: Digital Media and ICT, Life Science and Advanced Health Sue Elliott Principal, Virtus Insights Inc. Linkedin Areas of Expertise: Digital Media and ICT, Life Science and Advanced Health Main Industry: Analytics marketing, Strategic planning, Team management; Pharmaceuticals and drugs Bio: Sue brings rich experience working with small to medium pharmaceutical/life science focused organizations where she has been able to draw on a background in both science and business. Sue worked with The Synapse Group providing strategic marketing and communication consultative services to pharmaceutical companies across North America. She helped spin out Axiom Real-Time Metrics and grow the business focusing on the development and delivery of electronic data capture (EDC) tools for the life science sector. Subsequent to Axiom, Sue was a principal with EBM Consulting, continuing to develop and deploy EDC tools and provide strategic consulting services. Sue was a co-founder and principal at Virtus Insights Inc., a strategic management professional services firm. Currently Sue is working with Grifols Canada Ltd, as a Scientific Development Manager in the Medical Affairs department. Sue holds a B.Sc. from McGill University, a Ph.D. (Physiology) from the University of Calgary and an M.B.A. (Marketing/ Financing of New Ventures) from Queen’s University. Todd GriersonBusiness Advisor, Growth Expert and Coach | Grierson Consulting IncLinkedin Todd Grierson Business Advisor, Growth Expert and Coach | Grierson Consulting Inc Linkedin There are several moving parts to running a successful business. Most companies have areas of their business that run seamlessly while operating around a few critical issues that block their potential for success. But here’s the thing, when you ask the right questions, the opportunities are usually hidden in the details. You just have to know where to spot them. As a business mentor and growth expert I help owners and leaders of small to medium-sized businesses think bigger, focus on what matters and improve the way they operate. I know what questions to ask and what details to look for to clearly identify what's really standing in the way. In fact, I have developed an entire process called the Opportunity Matrix to help you and your team create an action plan to streamline your company’s performance to increase your profitability, efficiency and value. The success of our plan may include training, on site support and guidance. Basically, whatever it takes to ensure you win! My process is the result of over 25 years of operations, procurement, sales, marketing, leadership and strategic planning experience – as both a leader and business owner. For example, I purchased Elmira Poultry a company I once worked for and developed a strategic plan, shared a clear vision our employees stood behind, standardized the operating procedures and improved our technology and manufacturing capacity. Within 6 years our sales grew from $29 million $50 million and then sold the company. Since then I have gone on to help other businesses and have developed a proven frame work that gets results. If you have questions about your business, my approach or simply want to uncover a few opportunities in the details let's connect! Tom BrecklesCEO & Managing Partner, BCP Capital Advisors, IndividualLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising Capital, Strategic Planning, Business Development Tom Breckles CEO & Managing Partner, BCP Capital Advisors, Individual Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: - Raising Capital - Strategic Planning - Business Development - Executive Management - Corporate Finance Trevor BinghamField Sales Manager - Toronto, Arrow ElectronicsLinkedinAreas of Expertise: IoT / Industry 4.0, Software, IT sales, B2B Trevor Bingham Field Sales Manager - Toronto, Arrow Electronics Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: IoT / Industry 4.0, Software, IT sales, B2B, Business development, Electronics Trish BarrowNRC - IRAP, Ontario RegionLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Government relations, corporate finance, commercialization Trish Barrow NRC - IRAP, Ontario Region Linkedin Main Industries: Digital Media and ICT Areas of Expertise: Government relations, corporate finance, commercialization Valdis MartinsonsGreensky Capital Inc.LinkedinAreas of Expertise: Raising capital, B2B, Software Valdis Martinsons Greensky Capital Inc. Linkedin Main Industries: Financial Services Areas of Expertise: Raising capital, B2B, Software Walter GarrisonAdvanced Manufacturing Business Integrator, City of Mississauga, EDOLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Consumer goods, tooling, high volume manufacturing Walter Garrison Advanced Manufacturing Business Integrator, City of Mississauga, EDO Linkedin Main Industries: Manufacturing Areas of Expertise: Consumer goods, tooling, high volume manufacturing, Distribuition Xerxes WaniaSerial Entrepreneur - Tech ExecutiveLinkedinAreas of Expertise: Mergers and acquisitions, IP (Patents and trademarks), Hardware Xerxes Wania Serial Entrepreneur - Tech Executive Linkedin Main Industries: ICT, renewable energy Areas of Expertise: Mergers and acquisitions, IP (Patents and trademarks), Litigation, Raising capital, Strategic planning, Hardware