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DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261001T110000
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DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20260910T205741Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T205942Z
UID:33398-1790852400-1790857800@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:The Balanced Founder: Navigating Stress & Building Confidence with Raia 'Coach' Carey
DESCRIPTION:About Event\n\nIn this comprehensive Leadership Mastery talk\, Coach Carey merges insights from her signature keynotes\, Confidence from Within\, Embracing Stress in the Workplace\, and Impostor Syndrome Unpacked to elevate your leadership skills. This transformative session equips founders with the tools to cultivate confidence\, resilience\, and learning tangible methods for moving through imposter syndrome. \n​Meet the Speaker:\n​Raia ‘Coach’ Carey (She/Her)\, 3x Certified Life Coach\, speaker\, and EDI consulant \n​As a 3x Certified Life Coach\, speaker\, and EDI consulant Coach Carey is passionate about encouraging others to tap into the confidence they never knew they had. After overcoming various hardships\, she was able to transform her mindset and begin a career that empowers others to do the same. \n​By openly sharing her triumphs and tribulations\, Raia’s vulnerability helps foster a welcoming and safe environment in every room she enters. She strives to inspire and lead those around her by providing unwavering support\, guidance\, and motivation. \n​By equipping clients with tangible tools to implement in their daily lives\, she steers her community towards self-awareness\, resilience\, and sustainable success. \n\n​Zoom Link will be shared to registrants upon registering. Lab2Market is committed to fostering an inclusive\, equitable\, and accessible environment where diverse perspectives\, lived experiences\, and ways of knowing are welcomed and valued. We recognize that strong\, innovative communities are built when people feel seen\, heard\, and supported — and we actively design our programming with this principle at the forefront.
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/the-balanced-founder/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Partner and Community Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261006T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261006T110000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20260831T224028Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260831T224028Z
UID:33337-1791280800-1791284400@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:Becoming Defence Ready: Cybersecurity Requirements
DESCRIPTION:Presented by Export Navigator and 123 Defence\, this three-part webinar series is for B.C. SMEs considering the defence market. \n\n\n\n\nCybersecurity requirements are becoming an important condition of participation in Canadian and international defence supply chains. Depending on the customer and opportunity\, SMEs may encounter requirements in Canada\, the U.S.\, and European defence markets \nThis session will explain how these frameworks fit together\, how to determine which requirements may apply to your business\, and what is involved in preparing for compliance. It will also help companies consider whether the potential business opportunity supports the required investment. \n\n\n\n\nKey Takeaways\n\nUnderstand the basic structure of CPCSC\, CMMC and relevant European cybersecurity frameworks.\nDetermine which framework and certification level may apply to a particular opportunity.\nIdentify the information\, systems and business activities likely to be in scope.\nUnderstand the typical costs\, effort\, timeline and operational impact of achieving compliance.\nAssess whether compliance supports the business case and identify practical first steps toward readiness.\n\nSpeaker: Jonathan Clow\, 123 Defence \nQuestions? Contact info@exportnavigator.ca or visit exportnavigator.ca
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/becoming-defence-ready-cybersecurity-requirements/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Partner and Community Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261007T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261007T133000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20260911T203112Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260924T220623Z
UID:33415-1791374400-1791379800@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:Founders' Corner | Managing Risk Across Borders
DESCRIPTION:Overview\n\n\n\nDeepTech and science-intensive companies often sell to overseas clients before they ever sell anything in Canada. When this happens\, basic off-the-shelf insurance coverage that worked in Canada may no longer be adequate. What do you do then? \nJoin senior legal\, risk\, and insurance experts from Zurich Canada and BFL Canada for an advanced\, practitioner-level dive into the real-world mechanics of cross-border risk management\, complex insurance policies\, and claims realities. It will offer an insider’s look at how to approach insurance and risk management. \nYou will leave with an appreciation for the role of insurance in operating a business that ships products and provides services across borders \nSpeakers\nNathan Parsons\, VP Executive Risk & Financial Institutions\, BFL Canada \nPeter Cross\, Senior Claims Counsel\, Zurich Canada \n💡 Founders’ Corner Community Series\nJoin us on the first Wednesday of every month for a VentureLabs community gathering that brings founders\, startup teams\, and ecosystem partners together. Each session features an expert presentation or practical discussion on topics relevant to science and technology startups\, followed by dedicated time to connect with fellow members\, experts and build new relationships. \nOur inaugural Founder’s Corner Community series\, running from September through December\, will focus on International Business\, exploring key topics to help science and technology ventures navigate global markets\, expand internationally\, and build cross-border opportunities. \nBring your own lunch\, gain practical insights\, and grow your network. \nNext Session:\nDec 2nd @ 12PM
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/founders-corner-managing-risk-across-borders/
LOCATION:SFU VentureLabs (12th floor kitchen)\, 1200-555 West Hastings Street\, Vancouver\, BC\, V6B 4N6\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Featured,SFU VentureLabs Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261007T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261007T183000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20260114T224854Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T224926Z
UID:32226-1791387000-1791397800@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:VANTEC October 2026 Pitch Event
DESCRIPTION:Join us for the VANTEC Pitch Event\, where we showcase an exciting lineup of promising companies across various industries. Enjoy an engaging afternoon filled with dynamic presentations from over 10 entrepreneurs\, along with networking opportunities and refreshments. \nIn person and streamed online \nA G E N D A \n\nDoors Open 3:30pm\nNetworking 3:30 – 4:00pm\nCommunity Announcements 4:00pm\nCompany Pitches 4:15pm\nFounder & Investor Networking 5:30pm-6:30pm\n\nThis event is for VANTEC Members. All attendees must register for the event.
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/vantec-october-2026-pitch-event/
LOCATION:SFU VentureLabs (11th floor concourse)\, #1100\, 555 W Hastings Street\, Vancouver\, BC V6B 4N6\, Vancouver\, V6B 4N6\, CA
CATEGORIES:Partner and Community Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261007T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261007T190000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20261002T214730Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261002T214730Z
UID:33509-1791388800-1791399600@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:From Unknown to Unforgettable: Building a Marketing Engine That Drives
DESCRIPTION:​Is your marketing built for the shifts already underway? \n​The B2B marketing playbook is changing. Content marketing\, SEO and paid media have delivered reliable results for years\, but AI is reshaping how buyers discover vendors\, buying decisions are increasingly made before prospects ever contact sales\, and privacy changes are making traditional attribution harder. \n​For technology CEOs\, these aren’t simply marketing challenges. They affect how your company creates demand\, reaches buyers and invests in growth. \n​Join Marc Bitanga\, Founder of Persuasive\, for a candid look at what’s changing in technology marketing and growth\, and what CEOs and founders need to be thinking about as they build and scale their companies. \n​Marc will examine the shifts already underway\, which traditional marketing tactics are losing their edge\, and what these changes mean for technology companies where CEOs and founding teams often play a direct role in marketing and growth. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the marketing challenges they may already be experiencing\, the strategic questions they should be asking\, and where to focus their marketing efforts next. \n​Keynote Speaker\n​Marc Bitanga\, Founder\, Persuasive\n​Marc is the founder of Persuasive\, a B2B consultancy that makes B2B SaaS products easy to understand and buy. His premise is simple: clarity is the fastest growth lever a company has\, and most teams are losing deals to confusion\, not competition. Over 20+ years\, Marc has built and led marketing across B2B enterprises and startups. He spent eight years at SAP\, established the digital analytics functions at EA Sports\, led digital marketing at Ritchie Bros.\, and led a 20-person international team at Hootsuite as it grew from $50M to $150M ARR. He later ran marketing at ScalePad\, AfterShip\, and Spexi\,  landing national coverage including Bloomberg. And co-founded a performance agency that had clients such as Destination BC and Kal Tire before exiting.
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/from-unknown-to-unforgettable-building-a-marketing-engine-that-drives/
LOCATION:Register to See Address
CATEGORIES:Partner and Community Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261008T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261008T170000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20260529T221459Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260529T221459Z
UID:32968-1791471600-1791478800@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:Traction\, Trajectory & Target ROI Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Traction\, Trajectory & Target ROI Workshop\n​Brought to you by Sales Primer & VANTEC Angel Network. \n​Join Chris Stairs and Colin McWhinnie for this 2-hour high-impact session for founders preparing to raise capital—and needing to show investors the right numbers\, not just a compelling story. \n$50 for a 2-hour intensive presentation \nFREE for VANTEC presenters – promo code provided \n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister For Workshop\n\n\n\n\n\n\n​What You’ll Learn\n​This interactive webinar breaks down exactly what investors look for: \n\n\n​Credible traction metrics; \n\n\n​A defensible growth trajectory; and \n\n\n​A clear path to return on investment. \n\n\n​You’ll learn how to present your milestones\, economics\, and growth assumptions in a way that stands up to scrutiny and builds confidence. \n​This isn’t about polishing your pitch—it’s about aligning your story with the financial signals investors actually use to make decisions. \n​Who this is for\n​This session is designed for early-stage founders currently fundraising (or about to). \n​This session will help you communicate with clarity\, back your claims with the right data\, and give investors a reason to lean in. \n​About your instructors\n​Chris Stairs is a sales and commercialization expert. He has supported the commercialization of North American ventures across a broad range of sectors including construction management software\, e-learning\, workplace hygiene\, therapeutic apparel\, industrial automation\, event technologies\, and bio-innovation. Chris has worked for global brands such as the Olympics\, FIFA\, NBA\, and the MLS. \n​Colin McWhinnie is a seasoned entrepreneur\, advisor\, and sales strategist who has spent nearly two decades helping early-stage and growth-stage founders turn strong innovations into fundable\, scalable businesses. Colin specializes in guiding founders through the financial\, sales\, and funding models required to attract investors with clarity\, confidence\, and credibility. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister For Workshop\n\n\n\n\n\n\n​Looking for More Support?\n​We’re offering 2 sessions to help make sure your numbers stand up to investor scrutiny\, both in your Financial Model and in your Pitch Presentation. \n​$395 – Financial Model & Due Diligence Prep – Work with Chris to define the core drivers of your business with a structured 9-point “Number Narrative” and translate them into a clear\, defensible financial story. Contact: chris@salesprimer.ca \n​$195 – Pitch Review: Traction\, Trajectory & Target ROI – Work with Colin to test your pitch against what investors actually look for and walk away with a sharper\, more credible pitch. Contact: colin@salesprimer.ca
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/2026-10-08/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Partner and Community Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261009T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261009T120000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20261002T214737Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261002T214737Z
UID:33513-1791543600-1791547200@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:The Real Cost of Downtime: What BC Businesses Get Wrong About Backup
DESCRIPTION:About the Webinar\n\nDowntime can happen for many reasons — from ransomware and hardware failures to human error and unexpected outages. But regardless of the cause\, the impact can quickly extend beyond IT\, affecting productivity\, revenue\, customer service\, and business operations. \nJoin Tecnet and Datto to explore the real business impact of downtime and what organizations can do to prepare for the unexpected. We’ll break down why backups are only the first step\, what effective business continuity and disaster recovery look like\, and how having the right recovery strategy can help minimize disruption and get your business back up and running faster. \nAttendees will leave with practical considerations to help evaluate their own organization’s recovery readiness and identify where they may be exposed. \nPlus\, join us live for Q&A\, giveaways\, and a few surprises throughout the session!
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/the-real-cost-of-downtime-what-bc-businesses-get-wrong-about-backup/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Partner and Community Events
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261013
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261016
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20260825T213359Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T213421Z
UID:33317-1791849600-1792108799@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:SFU Innovation Week 2026
DESCRIPTION:SFU Innovation Week brings together researchers\, entrepreneurs\, industry leaders\, policymakers\, and ecosystem partners to connect\, collaborate\, and celebrate innovation across Canada. \nAcross three days\, attendees can explore new ideas and perspectives through innovation showcases\, industry panels\, lab tours\, networking opportunities\, and the i2I Innovation Pitch Competition. \nDay One: VentureLabs Innovation Spotlight\nTuesday\, October 13 | SFU Harbour Centre \nConnect with researchers\, industry leaders\, and innovators while exploring new ideas and perspectives. The day concludes with an evening networking reception. \n\nHackathon\nFireside Chat Company Showcase\n\nDay Two: Innovation Pitch and Venture Exhibits\nWednesday\, October 14 | Segal Graduate School of Business  \n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis day is where research becomes reality\, centred on the Innovation Pitch\, where participants from i2I’s programs showcase innovation ideas built to solve real-world problems. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\ni2I Innovation pitch competition\nStudent venture & industry exhibits\nEvening networking reception\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDay Three: Industry Panels and Lab Tours\nThursday\, October 15 | SFU Burnaby Campus   \n\n\n\n\nThis day features three exciting panels on how research\, partnership\, and policy come together within Canadian innovation\, a fireside chat with Dr. Stephanie Simmons\, and industry exhibits. \n\nPanel: Partners in Innovation\, Building Canada’s Future\nPanel: AgriTech Sustainability\nPanel: The Next Era of Healthcare\n\n\n\n\n\nAs part of Day Three\, go behind the science with guided tours of SFU’s Core Facilities and research labs\, where specialized research infrastructure\, expertise\, and services support innovation across disciplines. \n\n4D Labs\nSFU WearTech Labs\nSFU Cedar Supercomputing Centre\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegistration is available on a day-by-day basis\, with in-person and virtual options.
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/sfu-innovation-week-2026/
LOCATION:SFU Campus
CATEGORIES:Featured,SFU VentureLabs Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261013T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261013T170000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20260529T220140Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260529T220140Z
UID:32956-1791903600-1791910800@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:Frictionless Due Diligence Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Due Diligence Workshop\n​Brought to you by FutureStandard and VANTEC Angel Network. \n​Join David Steinley\, fractional CFO and CPA\, and Aaron Stuart\, investor with WUTIF Capital\, for this practical 2-hour session to learn what to expect in due diligence and how to build an investor-ready data room that signals professionalism\, builds trust\, and removes friction from your next fundraise. \n$50 for a 2-hour intensive presentation \nFREE for VANTEC presenters – promo code provided \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n​What you’ll learn\n​We’ll cover an investor’s perspective on due diligence\, as well as what a data room is\, why it matters\, and how to get started building yours. \n​You’ll see real examples and leave with tools you can use immediately. \n​You’ll walk away with\n\n\n​A curated list of priority data room files; \n\n\n​A clear process to get you started; \n\n\n​A peek into due diligence best practices; and \n\n\n​Insight into what matters to investors. \n\n\n​What founders are saying\n​”David\, this was hands down one of the most helpful and informative I have attended. Thank you for the 201 on data rooms\, this was awesome.” \n​”An investor said to me the other day that never in his 15 years investing in startups has he seen a data room as organized and thorough as mine.” \n​”Having everything prepared means we can not only move fast\, but with confidence because we’ve already thought through 90%+ of the questions that will get asked.” \n​Who this is for\n​This session is designed for early-stage tech founders raising their first or second round of capital within the next year. \n​It’s relevant no matter if you’re raising from angels\, VCs\, corporates\, governments\, or debtors. \n​About your instructor\n​David Steinley is a fractional CFO specializing in due diligence and fundraising support for early-stage companies. He’s worked with more than 30 startups across biotech\, cleantech\, agtech\, and software\, supporting over $28M in capital raised. David has also led webinars and hands-on workshops on data rooms and investor diligence for more than 500 founders across British Columbia\, Alberta\, and Ontario. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister For Workshop\n\n\n\n\n\n\n​Looking for More Support?\n​We’ve created a Data Room Template Pack for you to go from blank page to fundraise-ready in a fraction of the time. \n​The pack includes 13 investor-ready templates\, investors’ perspectives on what matters\, step-by-step instructions for you (or your AI) to follow\, and a fully worked example to model from — All for less than an hour with your lawyer.
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/2026-10-13/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Partner and Community Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261013T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261013T190000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20260910T202212Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261009T193043Z
UID:33394-1791909000-1791918000@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:Export Beyond Borders: How BC Companies Go Global
DESCRIPTION:Overview\n\n\n\nAn engaging afternoon featuring three fireside chats\, followed by a panel discussion exploring the realities of international growth. \n\n\n\nJoin 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. \nHear 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. \n4:30 PM – Three Fireside Chats \nRoy Trivett\, CEO\, Manterra Technologies | Dr. Kamyab Zandi\, Co-Founder & CEO\, TIMEZYX | Kenneth To\, CEO\, ViewsML | Brian Simmers\, President\, Providence Healthcare Ventures \n5:30 PM – Panel Discussion \nModerator: Thomas Green\, Partner\, BDC Thrive \nPanel: Peter Szymczak\, Co-Founder and Chief AI & Information Officer\, Spexi + All Fireside Chat Speakers \n6:30 PM – Networking Reception \nContinue the discussion and connect with the innovation ecosystem over light refreshments \nMeet the Speakers & Their Companies\nRoy 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. \nKamyab 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. \nKenneth 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. \nThis fireside chat is moderated by Brian Simmers\, President\, Providence Health Care Ventures \nPeter 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. \nThomas Green\, Partner\, BDC Thrive (Panel Moderator). Based in Vancouver\, Thomas Green 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. \nWhat to Expect\n\nReal-world lessons: Hear directly from founders and leaders about their experiences expanding into international markets.\nInternational perspectives: Discover how partnerships with customers\, organizations and international stakeholders can open doors to new markets.\nLessons learned: Get candid advice on navigating the trials\, successes and unexpected challenges of international growth.\nInteractive discussion: Hear different perspectives during the panel and bring your own questions for the speakers.\n\nWho Should Attend?\n\nFounders and entrepreneurs\nTechnology and innovation-driven companies\nBusiness leaders interested in international growth\nAnyone interested in learning firsthand from innovators and companies navigating global markets\n\nPart 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 \n\nNetwork Event sponsored by i2IRII.
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/export-beyond-borders/
LOCATION:(11th Floor Kitchen) SFU VentureLabs\, #1200 - 555 West Hastings Street\, Vancouver\, BC\, V6B 1N9\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Featured,SFU VentureLabs Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261015T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261015T120000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20261002T214734Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261002T214734Z
UID:33517-1792062000-1792065600@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:Your Team Is Already Using AI. Here’s How to Keep It Safe\, Not Slower.
DESCRIPTION:About the Webinar\n\nAI adoption is moving fast\, often faster than organizations can put the right security and governance around it. Employees may already be using multiple AI tools for everyday work\, potentially exposing sensitive business information without IT teams having full visibility. \nJoin Tecnet and Field Effect to explore the growing challenge of Shadow AI\, what happens when employees use AI tools with company data\, and how organizations can gain greater visibility and control without slowing down AI adoption.\nWe’ll look at the risks organizations should be paying attention to\, practical ways to create safer AI guardrails\, and a live demonstration to show how organizations can identify AI usage\, monitor potential information exposure\, and respond to risky activity. \nThis session is for IT Managers & Directors\, Operation leaders\, and technology decision-makers.\nPlus: Join us live for giveaways\, Q&A\, and a few surprises throughout the session.
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/your-team-is-already-using-ai-heres-how-to-keep-it-safe-not-slower/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Partner and Community Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261015T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261015T143000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20260923T192616Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T192616Z
UID:33478-1792069200-1792074600@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:BD Series: How to Close Deals Faster With Market Intelligence
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nBruce Clarke on understanding your market\, validating your assumptions\, and knowing your competitive advantage with market intelligence. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nDiscovery Foundation Business Development Series: How to Close Deals Faster With Market Intelligence\nBuilding a great product is only part of the equation. To grow successfully\, you need to understand your market\, validate your assumptions\, and identify the competitive and commercial factors that could shape your path forward. \nJoin commercial executive and entrepreneur Bruce Clarke\, Partner at Progression Capital and Monashee Ridge\, for an interactive webinar on market intelligence for early-stage and growing companies. \nDrawing on more than 25 years of experience in marketing\, sales and finance\, across diverse industries including biotech and healthtech\, Bruce will share practical frameworks and insights to help you: \n\nValidate Market Opportunities: Move beyond assumptions and assess market potential\, simply and effectively.\nKnow Your Market Better Than Everyone Else in the Room: when closing a BD deal or a new sale\, you must be the category expert. Market expertise is a pillar to confident selling.\nMap Key Stakeholders: Identify the players\, decision-makers\, influencers\, and market forces that can shape your opportunity.\nIdentify Commercialization Roadblocks: Anticipate competitive\, market\, and stakeholder challenges before they become barriers to growth.\nMake More Informed Strategic Decisions: Use market intelligence to strengthen your approach to partnerships\, investment\, market entry\, and growth.\n\nWhether you’re validating a new opportunity\, preparing to enter a market\, pursuing partnerships\, or positioning your company for investment\, this session will provide practical tools to help you make more informed strategic decisions. \nAbout the speaker\nBruce Clarke is an expert at go-to-market strategies\, scaling up\, funding\, business resources\, and market intelligence. Across 20+ years as an executive and entrepreneur\, he worked in biotech\, healthtech\, packaged goods\, financial services\, and consulting. His experience spans business development\, finance\, marketing\, and sales. Sharing his successes and failures\, he helps prepare start-ups and SMCs for the challenges ahead\, starting by convincing them to expect the unexpected. He is currently a Partner at Progression Capital and Monashee Ridge.
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/how-to-close-deals-faster-with-market-intelligence/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Featured,SFU VentureLabs Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261020T050000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261020T200000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20260929T210009Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261001T223246Z
UID:33493-1792472400-1792526400@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:Mission Critical: The Rise of Dual-Use Innovation
DESCRIPTION:Description\n\nJoin VEF in collaboration with Venture Labs for a timely discussion exploring how founders are building technologies that serve both commercial markets and critical public needs. \nFrom cleantech\, climate technology\, and life sciences to crisis communications\, emergency management\, and critical infrastructure\, this conversation will examine the rise of dual-use innovation and how technologies developed for one market can create value across multiple commercial and public-sector applications. \nAttendees will gain practical insights into commercialization strategies\, government and industry partnerships\, investment opportunities\, and what it takes to scale technologies with both economic and societal impact. \nYour ticket to this event includes admission\, light snacks\, and a beverage. \nSpeakers \nSpeakers will be announced soon. \nModerator \nModerator will be announced soon. \nEmcee \nEmcee will be announced soon. \nAgenda \n5:00-6:00pm OPEN NETWORKING \n6:00-6:15pm INTROS & WELCOME REMARKS \n6:15-6:30pm STARTUP LIGHTNING PITCHES & COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS \n6:30-7:30pm PANEL \n7:30-8:00pm CLOSING REMARKS & EVENT CONCLUSION \nInterested in presenting your business idea\, sharing a product launch\, or making an ask of the community? Apply to be a lightning pitch presenter. Selected presenters will get 100 seconds to share their product\, service\, or ask with the community in a supportive environment. \nApply today at https://www.vef.org/pitch \nWho Should Attend\n\nFounders and startup teams\nInvestors and venture capital firms\nCorporate innovation leaders\nGovernment and public-sector organizations\nEmergency management and critical infrastructure professionals\nAccelerators and incubators\nResearchers\, faculty\, and post-secondary innovation teams\nProfessional services firms supporting startups\nStudents and emerging entrepreneurs\n\nRegister early and save. Ticket prices increase October 12\, 2026\, so secure your spot before prices go up. \nDID YOU KNOW… Members get access to 8 VEF events annually\, plus our summer social and annual general meeting included? With options for corporate or individual memberships\, there’s never been a better time to join the community. Learn more and sign up: https://www.vef.org/member
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/mission-critical-the-rise-of-dual-use-innovation/
LOCATION:SFU VentureLabs (11th floor concourse)\, #1100\, 555 W Hastings Street\, Vancouver\, BC V6B 4N6\, Vancouver\, V6B 4N6\, CA
CATEGORIES:Featured,SFU VentureLabs Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261021T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261021T190000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20261002T214820Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261002T214820Z
UID:33503-1792598400-1792609200@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:Revenue Month: Beyond Founder-Led Growth — Building a Sales Engine That Scales
DESCRIPTION:​For many technology companies\, the founder is the original sales engine. You know the product\, understand the customer\, open doors\, build trust and close the deals. \n​But what gets you here won’t necessarily get you to the next stage of growth. \n​Join Acetech and sales growth expert Alice Heiman for a practical conversation about moving beyond founder-led sales and building a sales engine that can scale with your company. \n​Alice will explore how the CEO’s role in sales needs to evolve as the business grows\, how to build the strategy\, structure and leadership needed to support a growing sales organization\, and where founders commonly struggle when trying to transfer what works for them to a broader team. \n​This session will help CEOs and founders think through questions such as: \n\n​When is it time to move beyond founder-led sales?\nWhat should the CEO continue to own\, and what should be handed off?\nHow do you turn the founder’s knowledge\, relationships and instincts into a repeatable sales approach?\nWhat needs to be in place before adding salespeople or sales leadership?\nHow do sales\, marketing and customer success work together to drive revenue?\nHow does the CEO stay engaged in important customers and opportunities without becoming the bottleneck?\n\n​Whether you’re still leading most of your company’s sales or already building out a sales team\, this session will provide a framework for thinking about the next stage of your revenue engine. \n​Keynote Speaker: Alice Heiman\n​Alice is a nationally recognized sales growth expert who works with CEOs\, founders and leadership teams to build strategies that generate new business\, grow existing accounts and create sustainable revenue growth. \n​Alice began her career working with the renowned Miller Heiman sales organization before founding Alice Heiman\, LLC in 1997. Today\, she works with CEOs and senior leaders of companies with significant growth potential\, helping them rethink how they lead sales and build the strategy and organization required to scale. \n​Her approach is based on a central principle: the CEO will always have a role in sales\, but that role must evolve as the company grows. Rather than simply adding more salespeople\, Alice helps leaders look across sales\, marketing and customer success to create a more effective approach to revenue growth. \n​Alice is also the host of Sales Talk for CEOs and has taught at the University of Nevada for more than 20 years\, including within its entrepreneurship program.
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/revenue-month-beyond-founder-led-growth-building-a-sales-engine-that-scales/
LOCATION:​To be confirmed. Details will be shared closer to the event.
CATEGORIES:Partner and Community Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261023T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261023T120000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20261002T214727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261002T214727Z
UID:33520-1792753200-1792756800@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:One Click Away: What BC Businesses Need to Know About Phishing Risk
DESCRIPTION:Phishing isn’t what it used to be. Today’s attacks are becoming more convincing\, more personalized\, and harder for employees to recognize\, and it only takes one click\, one shared password\, or one convincing request to put an organization at risk. \nJoin Tecnet and KnowBe4 for an interactive Cybersecurity Awareness Month session exploring the human side of cybersecurity and why your employees can be either one of your biggest vulnerabilities — or one of your strongest lines of defense. \nWe’ll look beyond traditional annual cybersecurity training to explore how phishing and social engineering tactics are evolving\, why people continue to fall for them\, and what organizations can do to build security awareness into their everyday culture. \nBonus: Attend live for the opportunity to participate in giveaways\, interactive moments and a few surprises throughout the webinar. \nYou won’t just hear about cybersecurity awareness\, you’ll leave with practical ideas you can bring back to your organization. \nWhat you’ll learn:\n\nHow Phishing Has Changed in 2026\nWhy People Still Fall for Phishing\nWhat Effective Security Awareness Actually Looks Like\nPractical Ways to Build a Security-Aware Culture
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/one-click-away-what-bc-businesses-need-to-know-about-phishing-risk/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Partner and Community Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261028T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261028T113000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20261015T182319Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261015T182319Z
UID:33568-1793181600-1793187000@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:Doing Business in Alberta: What You Need to Know to Expand and Find New Customers
DESCRIPTION:As trade tensions and tariffs continue to disrupt access to the U.S. market\, many B.C. businesses are looking closer to home for new growth opportunities. Alberta’s strong economy\, growing population\, and business-friendly environment make it one of the most attractive markets for companies looking to diversify\, expand\, and build resilience. \nJoin the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade and World Trade Centre Vancouver for a practical discussion on doing business in Alberta. Hear directly from economic development leaders\, government representatives\, and businesses with firsthand experience expanding into the province. \nAttendees will gain insights into market opportunities\, customer acquisition\, government procurement\, available business support\, and steps needed to successfully enter and grow in Alberta. \nTopics to be Covered\n\nIdentifying customers\, partners\, and opportunities in Alberta\nUnderstanding Alberta’s business and economic landscape\nAccessing support programs and market-entry resources\nHow to do business with the Government of Alberta\n\nWho Should Attend?\n\nBusinesses looking to expand beyond B.C.\nCompanies seeking alternatives to U.S. market growth\nBusiness development and sales professionals\nExporters and manufacturers\nSupply chain and procurement professionals
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/doing-business-in-alberta-what-you-need-to-know-to-expand-and-find-new-customers/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Partner and Community Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261029T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261029T203000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20261015T182316Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261015T182316Z
UID:33556-1793295000-1793305800@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:Founder growth forum | Stripe Vancouver community launch - in-person
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the first Stripe Vancouver Community event! \nWe’re kicking things off with Founder Growth Forum — an intimate gathering for Vancouver founders and operators to connect\, exchange ideas\, and have practical conversations about what it really takes to grow and scale a business. \nWe’ll explore the challenges founders are navigating across growth\, cash flow\, customers\, people\, and systems\, share what’s working\, and learn from each other’s experiences. \nNo long presentations or sales pitches — just thoughtful conversations\, useful connections\, and a chance to help shape the Stripe Vancouver Community from the beginning. Whether you already use Stripe\, are exploring the ecosystem\, or simply want to connect with other founders and operators building in Vancouver\, you’re welcome to join us. \nWe’ll wrap up by defining our community principles and introducing stripecommunity.com\, where the conversation will continue between events. \n\n​Agenda:\n​5:30–6:00 PM — Welcome\nArrive\, get settled\, grab refreshments\, and meet fellow members before the event kicks off. \n​6:00–6:30 PM — Member Introductions\nA round of introductions — who you are\, what you’re working on\, and what brought you here. \n​6:30–7:00 PM — What Does It Really Take to Scale?\nZahra Carol Baghdadi\, CPA facilitates a practical conversation on the infrastructure behind sustainable growth. We’ll explore the key areas that can either support growth or quietly become constraints as a business scales — from customers and cash to people\, systems\, and capital. Together\, we’ll look at how these pieces connect and identify which one may be making growth harder in your business right now. \n​7:00–7:30 PM — Networking: Refresh\, Connect & Continue the Conversation\nGrab another refreshment and connect with founders around the ideas and challenges that surfaced during the discussion. \n​7:30–8:00 PM — Founder Growth Roundtable\nBring a current growth challenge\, question\, or opportunity to the table. We’ll exchange perspectives\, share what’s working\, and learn from the experiences of other founders in the room. \n​8:00–8:15 PM — Shape the Stripe Vancouver Community\nHelp define what this community should stand for and the topics and conversations you’d like us to explore at future gatherings. \n​8:15–8:30 PM — What’s Next & Closing Remarks\nUpcoming events\, how to stay involved\, and a short survey to help shape the community going forward.
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/founder-growth-forum-stripe-vancouver-community-launch-in-person/
LOCATION:116 W Hastings St Unit 200\, FriendsQuarters\, Vancouver\, BC\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Partner and Community Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261029T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20261029T233000
DTSTAMP:20261111T023844
CREATED:20260122T170608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260122T203044Z
UID:32293-1793295000-1793316600@venturelabs.ca
SUMMARY:2026 Technology Impact Awards Gala
DESCRIPTION:The Technology Impact Awards (TIAs) celebrate outstanding companies and individuals who have made a significant impact on the BC tech industry\nBC Tech is proud to have played a part in the journey of so many BC tech icons and success stories. Past finalists and winners say that the TIAs provides an unparalleled opportunity to build profile and accelerate growth\, so we would encourage every BC Tech company to think about how applying for a TIA could accelerate your success! \n\n\n2026 Company of the Year Awards\nThese awards recognize the outstanding tech company of the year in each of 5 categories: \n\nStartup | Presented by Electronic Arts\nFor companies with revenue of up to $1M and up to 10 employees. Apply here\nGrowth | Presented by Osler\nFor companies with revenue of up to $10M and up to 50 employees. Apply here\nScale | Presented by Clio\nFor companies with revenue of up to $50M and up to 200 employees. Apply Here\nAnchor | Presented by Blakes\nFor companies with annual revenue in excess of $50M and more than 200 employees. Apply Here\nAmbition | Presented by EDC\nFor companies of any size who epitomize the ambition of BC’s tech sector. Apply Here\n\n\n\n\n\n\n2026 Gamechanger Awards\nThese awards celebrate outstanding performance by a company in a particular area: \n\nArtificial Intelligence | Presented by KPMG\nA company that excels in the deployment of AI to drive BC’s leadership in this key technology. Apply here\nDeal of the Year | Presented by Vancity\nThis award recognizes the importance of transactions that drive growth and strengthen BC’s tech ecosystem. Apply Here\nCompany Culture | Presented by SAP\nA company that has embedded culture at the heart of its business operations\, resulting in accelerated growth and profitability. Apply Here\nIndustry Innovation | Presented by InnovateBC\nA company that excels in the deployment of technology to drive innovation in a traditional industry. Apply here\nClimate Leadership | Presented by MDA Space\nA company that excels in the deployment of technology to advance climate solutions. Apply here\nHealthTech | Presented by Aspect Biosystems\nA company that is making significant advancements in health-related technology\, innovation and delivery. Apply Here.
URL:https://venturelabs.ca/event/2026-technology-impact-awards-gala/
LOCATION:JW Marriott Parq Vancouver\, 39 Smithe Street\, Vancouver\, BC\, V6B 0R3
CATEGORIES:Partner and Community Events
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