An engaging afternoon featuring three fireside chats, followed by a panel discussion exploring the realities of international growth.

Join SFU VentureLabs for an engaging afternoon featuring three fireside chats with innovative Vancouver companies, followed by a panel discussion exploring the realities of international growth.

Hear firsthand from founders and leaders who have built partnerships, found customers, entered new markets and navigated the challenges of growing beyond Canada. From building supply chains and leveraging international partnerships to bringing emerging technologies to global markets, learn what worked, what didn’t, and what they wish they had known earlier.

Meet the Speakers & Their Companies

Roy Trivett, CEO, Manterra Technologies specializes in the mass production of injection-molded plastic parts and products requiring precision and certification. Hear about the opportunities and challenges of developing a fully domestic supply chain, with practical insights for companies scaling components or complete products.

Kamyab Zandi, Co-Founder & CEO, Timezyx provides advanced risk assessment solutions for infrastructure management. Its digital twin technology enables real-time monitoring of bridges and buildings. Learn about its work with the European Space Agency, the City of Gothenburg in Sweden and the City of Vancouver, using real-time data and satellite imagery to help protect vital infrastructure.

Kenneth To, CEO, ViewsML develops AI-powered computer vision solutions that help organizations turn visual data into actionable insights. Hear about their experience working with customers and partners to grow their technology and pursue opportunities in international markets.

This fireside chat is moderated by Brian Simmers, President, Providence Health Care Ventures.

Peter Szymczak, Co-founder & Chief AI & Information Officer, Spexi VentureLabs’s alumni Spexi is transforming how high-resolution geospatial data is captured and used through its decentralized drone network and AI-powered platform. Hear how Spexi has worked to scale its technology beyond Canada.

Thomas Greene, Partner, BDC Thrive (Panel Moderator). Based in Vancouver, Thomas Greene is a Partner with BDC Thrive, where he supports innovative and high-growth companies through venture capital. He brings experience across venture capital, strategy and financial services, including previous roles with Ardenton Capital, Accenture and Credit Suisse.

What to Expect

• Real-world lessons: Hear directly from founders and leaders about their experiences expanding into international markets.
• International perspectives: Discover how partnerships with customers, organizations and international stakeholders can open doors to new markets.
• Lessons learned: Get candid advice on navigating the trials, successes and unexpected challenges of international growth.
• Interactive discussion: Hear different perspectives during the panel and bring your own questions for the speakers.

Who Should Attend?

• Founders and entrepreneurs
• Technology and innovation-driven companies
• Business leaders interested in international growth
• Anyone interested in learning firsthand from innovators and companies navigating global markets

Part of SFU Innovation Week Oct 13-15: Learn more and see the full Innovation Week 2026 schedule: https://i2i-hub.my.canva.site/innovation-week-26