ventureLAB

ventureLAB is a leading technology hub that supports tech entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Located in York Region, Canada’s densest technology cluster, ventureLAB has supported over 2,000 entrepreneurs in a region that is home to over 4,300 technology companies and 65,000 tech jobs. ventureLAB’s 50,000 square foot innovation hub is home to over 45 tech companies and innovation partners that employ over 300 people. At ventureLAB, we support tech entrepreneurs through programs focused on capital, talent, technology, and customers, to advance Canada’s economy on a local, national and global scale.

Our Mission

We grow globally competitive tech titans that build-to-scale in Canada.

Our Vision

To make our region a destination of choice for technology firms to create globally competitive companies, building and scaling in Canada.

Our Values

Relentless: We are tenacious, resilient, resourceful, and open-minded. We follow through and remove barriers so others can succeed.

Inclusive: We embrace diverse opinions, ideas, and perspectives to make better decisions. We empower each other to do better, we are positive, and we do not judge ourselves or others.

Visionary: We inspire a prosperous future predicated on diversity and inclusivity for our clients, partners, and community.

Innovative: We ensure everyone is able to contribute to new innovative ideas and strategies. We are curious and ask questions for clarity.

Results: We are proactive and decisive. We do what we say we will do. We are accountable. We have fact-based discussions and challenge each other respectfully.

Our Team

We have an amazing, diverse team dedicated to creating an even more amazing community to help tech companies build, grow, and scale their businesses. From former entrepreneurs to seasoned former industry executives to young, fresh talent, we’re here to help!

Melissa Chee, President and CEO

Matt Skynner, COO

Matt Hicks, VP, Finance

Avinash Persaud, VP, Hardware Catalyst Initiative

Frank Spagnuolo, Director, Hardware Catalyst Initiative

Jane Gertner, VP, Partnerships

Karen Wilson, Director, Partnerships and Sponsorships

Wei Guo, Director, Partnerships

Stephanie Bagnarol, Coordinator, Partnerships

Erin McTague , Coordinator, Digital Main Street

Lisa Shi, Director, Programs

Kristie Kiatipis, Manager, Programs

Lily Akagbosu, Coordinator, Programs

Carrie Yan, Coordinator, Programs

Brenna Ireland, Director, Innovation Space

Mayavan Raja, Manager, Innovation Space

Maria Sanabria, Coordinator, Innovation Space

Curtis Eakins, Manager, Business Analysis

Sep Assadian, Director, Venture Growth

Scott Carpenter, Venture Growth Project Manager

Ana Misra, Venture Growth Advisor

Chris Cory, Venture Growth Advisor

Colin Hung, Venture Growth Advisor

Garry Chan, Venture Growth Advisor

Heather Crosbie, Venture Growth Advisor

John Pomeroy, Venture Growth Advisor

Yuri Navarro, Venture Growth Advisor

Paul Rivett, Venture Growth Advisor

Ravi Gananathan, Venture Growth Advisor

Danielle Graham, Venture Growth Advisor

Justine Kintanar, VP, External Relations and Communications

Sanchi Illuri, Manager, Marketing and Communications

Jacqueline Cruz, Coordinator, Digital Marketing

Kate Rowe, Manager, Events

Sara Mehraban, Coordinator, Policy and Communications

Marion Balfour, Executive Assistant

Zeno Sirbu, IT Advisor

Our Board

Our diverse board includes high-profile entrepreneurs and investors, high-profile female entrepreneurs and investors, previous industry executives, and senior executives from leading provincial and national healthcare providers that provide leadership and support for ventureLAB.