The 2025 CVCA VC Year-End report tells a bleak story for Canada’s startup communities. Yes, $8 Billion was deployed; but two-thirds is concentrated into only 26 deals.   

Subtle note for our readers, it doesn’t have to be this way. 

The recently announced $750M from the federal government for early stage investment catalyzation presents the perfect opportunity to inculcate the “community model” for startup building into our Canadian DNA.  

We’ve been doing it with one simple mantra: TNT. Thursday. Night. Tradition.  

Tradition builds trust. Trust builds relationships. Relationships accelerate businesses. Believe it or not, it really is that simple.

Startup TNT has been betting on Canada’s flyover country for half a decade. Ask us how our Saskatoon Winner’s portfolio is doing. We call it the “Paris of the Portfolio”.

Canada saw a 28% drop in early stage deal flow.  

TNT has been investing in 30 deals per year since 2021. Our deals come from all sectors. All founders come from all walks of life.  

Because we focus on genuine relationship building. 

We identify promising opportunities.  

Then we provide the tools to execute deals.

And we invite everyone in. We build relationships and a resilient innovation network that grows stronger through disruption. We celebrate the founders with the entire community to ensure everyone understands, this is more than just capital.

Canada, and the broader VC community, is in danger of over-concentrating their capital on fewer and fewer big bets. It’s partly structural. The economics of small funds are brutal.

But we somehow managed to syndicate over 2,500 individual Angel Cheques from 550 investors. 120 Startups have received capital investments and hundreds of ambitious founders across Canada gained value just from participating in our investment summits. The experience we have been able to provide goes beyond our events.

We are creating the critical social infrastructure this country needs to scale.

There are a surprising number of Canadians that qualify as accredited investors, yet only a tiny fraction currently participate in startup investing presenting a massive untapped opportunity for Canada’s innovation economy.

But why slow down now? We believe Canada needs us to ramp up this pace.  

This $750M can help. 

The depth and breadth of our business community is unengaged.  

These are the people that will give the founder meaningful advice, a quality introduction, or even join their startup.  

This is the community that will accelerate our founders to greatness.  

“Without TNT, my company might not exist,” is a testimonial we’ve heard often. But really what it means is that without a supportive and collaborative ecosystem, my company might not exist. Without this, how do we expect innovative Canadian ideas or companies to come to fruition?  

Let’s use this $750M to engage them. 

Let’s use this $750M to double the number of pre-seed and seed stage deals in this country over the next 3 years. 

And let’s syndicate those deals with business leaders, angels, and Canadian champions from coast to coast.   

Startup TNT is at your beck and call, Canada.  

Put us in, Coach, we’re rearing to go. 

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About Startup TNT
Startup TNT is one of most active pre-seed investors in Western Canada (CVCA, 2024) and #1 Most Active Private Independent firms (CVCA, 2025). We are a community of entrepreneurs, scientists, investors, innovators, and startup supporters that gather every week to have fun, share stories, and build great companies. With 100+ investments into 120 companies that are 40% women-led and 25% BIPOC-led, we have one of the most diverse portfolios in the country. Co-investors on TNT deals include Panache Ventures, Hustle Fund, BDC Capital, Y Combinator and Thin Air Labs. TNT Capital, our VC fund, invests in companies across Western Canada. Learn more at StartupTNT.com.

Edmonton, AB – May 7 – We’re excited to announce that CK Dhaliwal has joined Startup TNT as our new Executive Director.

CK brings a wealth of experience in community building, strategic operations, and government engagement. His work has consistently focused on empowering creative entrepreneurs, fostering effective communication pathways, and building sustainable growth frameworks.

CK will lead the day-to-day operations of Startup TNT and help us evolve into a stronger, more decentralized, and nationally connected organization. "It's an incredible honor to join the Startup TNT team," says CK. "Each lead across Canada has made significant impacts in their communities. I'm eager to collaborate with them and support their efforts nationwide, integrating the heart and soul of Startup TNT across the nation.”

Why this matters

Startup TNT has always believed that the best startup ecosystems are built by the people in them. As we expand across Canada, we’re doubling down on our commitment to locally-owned, founder-focused chapters in cities nationwide. CK will be instrumental in helping us build the systems, relationships, and structures that empower local leaders to take ownership of their regional TNT chapters—while keeping us all aligned in mission and culture.

The Opportunity

With CK driving our operational engine, Startup TNT co-founders Tim Lynn and Zack Storms will be focused on building our institutional family of venture funds—scaling capital access for Western Canadian startups and growing our investor network with even greater ambition.  They will also stay on as co-leads of the Edmonton TNT community and will continue to serve on the Board of Directors.  

This marks a new chapter for TNT—stronger, more focused, and ready to grow in bold new directions.

Let’s go build something big. Together.

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About Startup TNT
Startup TNT facilitates investment in early-stage startups through community-driven investment summits, connecting entrepreneurs with investors and fostering regional innovation. Since 2020, they have run over 40 summits, engaging 500+ angel investors and deploying over $17 million in equity to local Canadian startups. Their unique model empowers local investors and provides critical capital to promising startups, contributing to the growth and development of regional ecosystems. For more information on Startup TNT, visit: www.startuptnt.com

The VSW Opening Reception at Science World will officially launch Vancouver Startup Week, a cornerstone event for the local innovation community. Chaired by Vivian Lago and Katty Wang, VSW is a week-long series of events designed to foster connection, education, and support for Vancouver's tech and startup scene. VSW is a community-driven initiative that provides a platform for founders, investors, and industry professionals to engage in workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. It aims to showcase the breadth and depth of Vancouver's entrepreneurial talent and strengthen the ecosystem through knowledge sharing and collaboration.

“The BC Summit XI Finale Night presents a unique opportunity to highlight the promising ventures emerging from BC, building on the momentum of our successful inaugural summit,” stated Richard K. Miller, BC Summit Lead for Startup TNT. "Startup TNT is committed to democratizing access to capital and fostering a vibrant community of investors and entrepreneurs. We’re excited to partner with Vancouver Startup Week to provide these founders with a platform to gain exposure and potential investment, and to continue building on the connections made in the fall."

Startup TNT’s investment summits are known for their unique, community-driven approach, where local investors pool their funds to invest directly in promising startups. Since 2020, Startup TNT has run over 40 summits, engaging 500+ angel investors and deploying over $17 million in equity to local Canadian startups. This model empowers local investors and provides significant capital to early-stage companies.

“The VSW Opening Reception, featuring the Startup TNT Finale Night, will set the stage for a week of valuable connections and insights,” stated the VSW Chairs, Katty Wang and Vivian Lago. “We encourage individuals interested in the Vancouver startup ecosystem to join us and engage with the diverse range of events planned throughout the week. This partnership with Startup TNT highlights the collaborative spirit that drives our community.”

Attendees of the VSW Opening Reception can expect:

• Networking opportunities with investors, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders starting at 5:30 PM.

• Live pitches from five finalists of the Startup TNT BC Summit XI beginning at 6:00 PM.

• The announcement of the winning BC startup, receiving an investment exceeding $150,000, by 8:30 PM.

• An introduction to the broader Vancouver Startup Week program.

Event Details:

• Event: Vancouver Startup Week Opening Reception & Startup TNT BC Summit XI Finale Night

• Date: Monday, May 20th, 2025

• Location: Science World, Vancouver, BC

• Time: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Registration:Tickets for Vancouver Startup Week, which include access to the Opening Reception, are available at https://www.vanstartupweek.ca. Use Promo Code: VSWxStartupTNT20 for 20% off the current ticket price.

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About Startup TNT
Startup TNT facilitates investment in early-stage startups through community-driven investment summits, connecting entrepreneurs with investors and fostering regional innovation. Since 2020, they have run over 40 summits, engaging 500+ angel investors and deploying over $17 million in equity to local Canadian startups. Their unique model empowers local investors and provides critical capital to promising startups, contributing to the growth and development of regional ecosystems. For more information on Startup TNT, visit: www.startuptnt.com

About Vancouver Startup Week
Vancouver Startup Week is a week-long series of events designed to connect, educate, and celebrate the Vancouver startup community, featuring workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. Chaired by Katty Wang and Vivian Lago, VSW is a community-driven initiative that strengthens the local innovation landscape. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit: https://www.vanstartupweek.ca/

Media Inquiries

Startup TNT:

Richard K. Miller, BC Summit Lead

richard.miller@startuptnt.com

Mobile: +1-604-765-1685

Vancouver Startup Week:

Vivian Lago & Katty Wang, VSW Chairs

chair@vanstartupweek.ca

PR Contact: michelle@nevvcostrategies.com

Startup TNT’s Agri-Food programming is designed to activate angel investors to increase the pool of early-stage capital for Canadian agri-food startups. With FCC’s backing, Startup TNT is scaling its efforts nationally, providing more opportunities for startups to connect with investors and secure the funding they need to grow. More details on the expanded programming will be shared at the Canada Farm Show at 3pm on March 18th. 

“FCC is pleased to partner with Startup TNT as it scales up its efforts to raise capital for early-stage startups in Canadian agriculture and food,” said Graeme Millen, Vice-President of Business Development and Ecosystem Support at FCC. “Partnering with Startup TNT is a natural fit for FCC as we work to build stronger, more resilient ag and food businesses in Canada, and increase their probability of success.” 

Startup TNT has a proven track record of activating new sources of angel capital with over $17M raised for over 100 companies from nearly 500 individual investors. With this new support, Startup TNT plans to build a network of agri-food angel investors, elevating the position of Canada as a global leader in agri-food innovation and the best place to commercialise new technologies.

“Over the past two years, I have witnessed first hand the incredible economic value of getting farmers, agri-business owners, and professionals participating in our program,” said Jesse Wiebe, Community Development Lead and the Founder of TNT Agri-Food, “We are so incredibly grateful for the support of FCC as well as our other partners, we hope that others will rally around this program that has shown real results!”

A Platform for Entrepreneurs and their Communities

Startup TNT is currently accepting applications for Summit XI, a multi-sector investment summit, and the Agri-Food Summit, which focuses specifically on startups in the agri-food industry. Both events connect early-stage companies with active investors and offer a unique opportunity for startups to raise capital while gaining exposure to industry leaders.

• Startup applications for Summit XI and the Agri-Food Summit are open now.

• Application deadline: March 14, 2025.

• Final investment decisions will be made at the Summit Finale on May 1, 2025.

Startup TNT operates as a non-profit and continues to seek additional partners to support its 2025 programming. Those interested in learning more about getting involved or applying to participate in the current program, can reach out via StartupTNT.com.

Raise Capital With Us

To coincide with this today’s news, Startup TNT is thrilled to announce the launch of its next Summit process in Alberta and British Columbia as well as the national Agri-Food Summit. The process begins in March and ends May 1. Entrepreneurs are invited to apply by March 11 to raise capital at StartupTNT.com.

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About Startup TNT
Startup TNT is a not-for-profit that works with entrepreneurs, investors, government, and sponsors to rally communities to collaborate and invest in their top startups, providing them the roots to grow and reach the world from home. The organization has facilitated over 100 investments, with 40% of those going to portfolio companies that are women-led and 25% that are BIPOC-led. These startups have generated millions of dollars in revenue and created dozens of jobs. Starting in Edmonton in 2019, the organization has run programming in BC, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba with a vision of further expansion in 2025 and beyond. Learn more at StartupTNT.com.

For media inquiries, please reach out to jesse@startuptnt.com

About FCC
FCC is proud to be 100 per cent invested in Canadian agriculture and food. The organization’s employees are committed to the long-standing success of those who produce and process Canadian food. FCC provides flexible financing and capital solutions, while creating value through data, knowledge, relationships and expertise. FCC offers a complement of financial and non-financial products and services designed to support the complex and evolving needs of the industry. As a commercial Crown corporation, FCC is a stable partner that reinvests profits back into the industry and communities it serves. For more information, visit fcc.ca.

Have fun, build connections, and get funded

Raising capital is tough, but Startup TNT’s Investment Summits make it easier by connecting you with engaged investors who want to fund and support promising startups like yours.

Here’s why Summit XI is a game-changer for founders:

• Access Seed-Stage Investment – Selected startups typically raise $150,000+ from angel investors and Startup TNT’s venture fund, TNT Capital.

• Meet Serious Investors – Over 500 angels have participated in past summits, leading to $17 million invested in 100+ startups.

• Refine Your Pitch & Strategy – The Summit isn't just about funding; it’s a chance to fine-tune your pitch, get investor feedback, and build long-term relationships that can fuel your growth.

• Join a Community of High-Growth Startups – Past Summit participants include Drugbank, Omnee, Nimble, PulseMedica, Scription, SketchDeck, and WaitWell—companies that have gone on to scale and succeed.

We’re now accepting applications for Summit XI in Alberta, British Columbia, and the national Agri-Food Summit.

Key Dates:

• Applications Close: March 14

• Pitch Night: April 3

• Summit Finale: May 1

🔗 Apply now and take your startup to the next level. Know a great startup that should apply? Share this with them.

In the report, released on February 19, 2024, CVCA noted that Startup TNT’s 19 pre-seed investments make it the most prolific pre-seed investor in the country. Combined with its additional 11 investments in 2024, Startup TNT is the second-most prolific private independent firm – with 30 deals (15% of all seed-stage deals) – across Canada out of the top 10 firms acknowledged in the report (pg 40).

“We keep it simple:  Host parties and invest in startups. And, most importantly, activate the local business community to invest in their highest potential founders at the beginning stages of the startup journey.  Our goal is to keep more founders in their home town and at the very least Canada,” said Tim Lynn, co-founder of Startup TNT.

“We’ve always known that if we harness our collective energy as a startup community, we can accomplish exponentially more than any of us could dream of achieving on our own,” added Zack Storms, co-founder of TNT. “So let's invest in more founders in 2025!”

A Platform for Entrepreneurs and their Communities

Startup TNT’s semi-annual Investment Summits are a platform for entrepreneurs and innovators seeking seed-stage funding. The Summit provides an opportunity to receive seed funding for founders and to build relationships with investors and other participants in the startup community.

For investors, the Summit offers a team-based diligence process, which provides a more efficient, distributed model for experienced angels to make seed-stage investments, and a collaborative training model for those exploring angel investing for the first-time. At the end of the process, selected startups typically take home upwards of $150,000 from angel investors and Startup TNT’s own venture capital fund, TNT Capital.

Over the past five years, Startup TNT has hosted 42 summits, engaged nearly 500 angel investors, and facilitated $17 million of investments into 100+ startups.

Companies that Startup TNT has helped to raise capital include Drugbank, Omnee, Nimble, PulseMedica, Scription, SketchDeck, and WaitWell. 

Raise Capital With Us

To coincide with this today’s news, Startup TNT is thrilled to announce the launch of its next Summit process in Alberta and British Columbia as well as the national Agri-Food Summit. The process begins in March and ends May 1. Entrepreneurs are invited to apply by March 11 to raise capital at StartupTNT.com.

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About Startup TNT
Startup TNT is the most active pre-seed investor in Western Canada (CVCA, 2023 and 2024). We are a community of entrepreneurs, scientists, investors, innovators, and startup supporters that gather every week to have fun, share stories, and build great companies. With 100+ investments into companies that are 40% women-led and 25% BIPOC-led, we have one of the most diverse portfolios in the country. Co-investors on TNT deals include Panache Ventures, Hustle Fund, BDC Capital, Y Combinator and Thin Air Labs. TNT Capital, our VC fund, invests in companies across Western Canada. Learn more at StartupTNT.com.

Let us share some amazing things that still blow our minds:

• We crushed our previous funding record, pouring $4.5M into Western Canadian startups (We still have to pinch ourselves when we say that number!). And get this – last year, we welcomed over 200 investors into TNT deals. How cool is that?

• One of our personal highlights was watching TNT BC come to life with our first BC Investment Summit. The energy in that room was absolutely electric!

• What else?! Our TNT VC Fund has already backed 30 incredible startups across our communities, thanks to our rockstar LPs who believed in us and committed $3.5M.

• And speaking of wins – we just celebrated our first exit! That's right, our investors are already seeing returns through the secondary market.

Every time we look at what we've achieved, we’re reminded that this isn't just about numbers – it's about all of you coming together, rolling up your sleeves, and saying "yes" to supporting the next generation of innovators.

2025 is our year to dream even bigger and push even harder. Let's do this thing!

- Zack and Tim, Co-Founders

As we look to the future, we recognize that to truly achieve our mission of democratizing startup investing and catalyzing thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems, we need to adapt and revisit our approach. To build a stronger foundation for the future, we must streamline our operations. Unfortunately, this also means making the difficult decision to part ways with some exceptional team members who have played a pivotal role in shaping Startup TNT into the organization it is today.

Before the start of 2025, some of our team members will be leaving Startup TNT—not due to any shortcomings in their performance, but because we are changing our model. We take full responsibility for not yet building a sustainable operational structure that could support continued growth and keep these outstanding individuals as part of our team. They have been at the heart of our mission, driving growth, and championing startup ecosystems across the regions we serve. Thanks to their dedication and expertise, we have:

• Delivered 12 Investment Summits in 2024, our highest number yet

• Launched a new community in British Columbia

• Raised a $3.5M VC Fund

• Deployed a record $4.5M in Angel Capital into startups this year

These professionals represent the values we hold dear: collaboration, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference. While it’s tough to part ways, we know they will continue to make a positive impact wherever they go next. We want to thank them for being part of this journey with us.

We’re asking our communities to help us do what you do best: work with us to help these amazing people identify their next role in the startup ecosystem.

Moving Forward

These changes are part of a larger restructuring to set the foundation for long-term, global impact. Our vision remains the same: 100 cities deploying $100M per year into their own startup ecosystems. But achieving this requires even more shifts in how we operate and grow. So, here’s how we’re changing:

Firstly, in spring 2025, we’ll run four (4) Summits: Edmonton, Calgary, British Columbia, and Agri-Food. Secondly, instead of owning the launch of new communities, we’ll prioritize supporting, training, and mentoring local leaders to manage TNT chapters in their own regions. To that effect, Cleantech, Life Sciences, Saskatchewan and Manitoba are being restructured for future Summits, some as early as Fall 2025. In the meantime, we will continue to support our investors, founders, and partners in these regions as the community transitions to a new model. Lastly, we’re hiring a new leader to run our not-for-profit, ensuring the organization has the expertise and operational capacity to sustain its growth and achieve its global vision.

We know these changes may spark questions and ideas. As co-founders, we are here to listen and welcome conversations from our community, partners, and supporters. Your input is invaluable as we navigate this transition and continue building something extraordinary. Together, we will continue to have fun, make friends, and build companies.

Zack and Tim, Co-Founders

Startup TNT

Looking to speak with a local lead? Here’s who to connect with:

• Edmonton: Zack Storms and Tim Lynn while Lindsay is on Maternity Leave

• Calgary: Adrian Mitchell

• British Columbia: William Johnson

• Saskatchewan & Sectors: Jesse Wiebe

Startup TNT is at a crossroads in Manitoba. After over 2 years of having fun, making friends, and building companies every Thursday, and running 4 successful Investment Summits, we have raised $740,000 for 8 MB companies. TNT would love to become a permanent fixture of the Manitoba startup community – indeed, given this traction, this is our long-term goal.

However, as it stands, we currently do not have the local resources necessary to sustain our on-the-ground operations at this time.

So we are pausing our operations in Manitoba today. What does this mean for the community? In the short-term, tonight will be our final Happy Hour for the time being. We will not be running a MB stream for our Fall 2024 Investment Summit. Richard Tuck, a staple of the MB tech ecosystem and our MB lead, is wrapping up activities at Startup TNT. We want to thank Richard for the 13 months of hard work he put into building a thriving TNT community in Manitoba. He led what was, by all accounts, the most successful TNT Summit in Manitoba this past Spring.

But the door is open to re-engage Manitoba in the TNT community. We know that TNT can thrive here, and we want to work with you, the leaders on the ground, to help us to build a new plan for reviving TNT in Manitoba and making it stronger – and sustainable.

If you want to get involved and contribute ideas for the future of TNT in Manitoba, we would love to hear from you.

Zack and Tim

mb@startuptnt.com

A note from William Johnson, BC lead at Startup TNT:

What a rush! Hundreds of founders and investors. Thousands of innovators. Countless new connections – Startup TNT’s first official week in Western Canada’s most Western province was something special.

So who are we again?

Startup TNT is the most active pre-seed and seed-stage investor in Western Canada (CVCA, 2023). We are a community of entrepreneurs, investors, scientists, innovators, and startup supporters that gather every week to have fun, share stories, and build great companies.

We also invest in top-tier early-stage startups across Western Canada. In fact, last year our angel investors committed $3.7M to 38 startups at our Investment Summits or as follow-on cheques, making us the following:

• #1 most active pre-seed stage investor in Canada

• 4th most active seed stage investor in Canada

• 7th most active investor in this asset class in Canada

And we did all that by only focusing on the Prairie startup community. Well, we’re now taking our brand of community-driven investing and expanding across B.C. That’s where I come in. And that’s why I was so excited to have my colleagues Tim Lynn and Jesse Wiebe join me last week at Innovate West and Startup TNT’s inaugural Happy Hour.

Celebrating west coast innovation

Innovate West was the perfect coming party for our team. Tim, our co-founder, joined a talk titled Capital Catalyst: Navigating Diverse Funding Avenues for Startup and Scale-Up Success. On that panel, he and investors with Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, Top Down Ventures, eFund discussed the various capital-raising avenues available to startups – including venture capital, angel investment, specialized, niche, and emerging funds.

I had the pleasure of moderating two unique heavyweight sessions focused on Vancouver’s tech ecosystem and artificial intelligence. I shared the stage with executives from Rhino Ventures, Cymax, Inovia Capital, FISPAN, Variational AI and Mila. Thanks to everyone who joined and made for very engaging sessions.

Happy Hours are happening

Still, the highlight of the week was our inaugural Happy Hour, co-hosted with our friend Danielle Graham, co-founder of the Firehood. By the way, if you didn’t already know, the TNT in Startup TNT actually stands for Thursday Night Tradition – because we do these meetups Every. Single. Week. But why?

We believe that great entrepreneurs exist everywhere, and the best way to unleash the potential of startup communities is to connect people. We want to be a place where people meet their co-founders, where investors write cheques to local entrepreneurs, and where prominent members of the community come to celebrate wins.

Want to get in on this? Here are a few ways to get involved.

For investors:

• Want to invest in great companies?

• Download our investor information guide

For founders:

• Raising pre-seed and seed capital?

• Talk to me: will@startuptnt.com

For partners/sponsors:

• Want to meet promising ventures and support our work in your ecosystem?

• Talk to me: neil@startuptnt.com 

For founders, investors and partners:

• Want to stay up-to-date?

• Subscribe to the Vancouver/BC newsletter for weekly updates

Regina, SK–April 3, 2024–Startup TNT, a non-profit focused on capital access for startups, today announced BetterCart Analytics, as its 2024 Agri-Food Investment Summit winner.

BetterCart Analytics topped four other startups to secure the win, which includes over $140,000 in equity investment. The total includes commitments from Startup TNT’s syndicate of qualified angel investors and $50,000 from Startup TNT’s venture capital fund, TNT Capital. Two other finalists, AgGene and Geco Engineering also secured deal commitments from participating investors. The other two 2024 finalists were Rayhawk Technologies and Maia Farms.

“We’re thrilled to have won this year’s Agri-Food Summit!” commented Melanie Morrison, co-founder and CEO of BetterCart. “I valued the opportunity to have our company introduced to more individuals in the investor ecosystem across Western Canada and to meet new investors throughout the due diligence process. As a big data company with AI as part of our core tech, we’re laser-focused on data acquisition, model testing and training, and application for the purposes of horizontal and vertical growth. With this new capital, we’ll be investing in R&D and accelerating our client growth.”

BetterCart Analytics leverages AI to help organizations access real-time food supply chain data for a range of purposes to improve their business. The startup has previously secured an investment deal from Startup TNT as part of the 2023 regional Saskatchewan Investment Summit.

“This year’s first-ever Startup TNT Agri-Food Summit showcased companies that are elevating the future through tech that supports innovation at every intersection of the food supply chain,” said Tim Lynn, co-founder of Startup TNT. “Congratulations to everyone, including the founders who took part, as well as the investors and partners who made this year’s program possible. It’s clear that agri-food innovation is thriving across Western Canada.”

The Agri-Food Investment Summit, hosted by Startup TNT, is a platform for agri-food entrepreneurs seeking seed-stage funding and investors interested in the future of food. Through this sector Summit, Startup TNT has invested more than $400,000 into six startups over the past two years.

Startup TNT also facilitates a cleantech and life sciences investment summit. Following the completion of these 2024 Sector Summits, Startup TNT has now raised over $13 million in seed-stage capital for 90+ companies across Western Canada.

Summit IX Applications Open

Startup TNT is now accepting applications for its Spring Summit IX which aims to raise $1M for Prairie-based startups across all industry verticals. Four unique Summit streams will be held for startup companies located in Edmonton (Northern Alberta), Calgary (Southern Alberta), Saskatchewan (Provincial), and Manitoba (Provincial). The deadline for companies to apply is April 15, 2024. The investor kick-off is April 24, 2024. Learn more at startuptnt.com/summit-ix

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Media contact:
William Johnson
Startup TNT
will@startuptnt.com
604.619.4163

About Startup TNT

Startup TNT is the most active pre-seed and seed stage investor in Western Canada (CVCA, 2023). We are a community of entrepreneurs, scientists, investors, innovators, and startup supporters that gather every week to have fun, share stories, and build great companies. With 90+ investments into companies that are 40% women-led and 25% BIPOC-led, we have one of the most diverse portfolios in the country. Co-investors on TNT deals include Panache Ventures, Hustle Fund, BDC Capital, Y Combinator and Thin Air Labs. TNT Capital, our $5M fund, invests in companies across Western Canada through our Investment Summits. Learn more at StartupTNT.com.

The Life Sciences Investment Summit is a unique platform created in partnership between Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation and Startup TNT to empower innovative ideas, invest in life sciences discoveries and build a community of life sciences start-ups and investors.

Edmonton, AB–April 3, 2024–Startup TNT, a non-profit focused on capital access for startups, and Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation (API), a non-profit life sciences commercialization organization, have announced OligomicsTx as its 2024 Life Sciences Investment Summit winner.

OligomicsTx was chosen over five other finalists to secure the win, which includes over $175,000 in equity investment. The total includes commitments from Startup TNT’s syndicate of qualified angel investors and $50,000 from Startup TNT’s venture capital fund, TNT Capital. Two other finalists, Qualisure and PulmVita also secured deal commitments from participating investors. The other finalists were MACH32, Wave View Imaging and Difinity Solutions.

“We, at OligomicsTx, are truly grateful for the opportunity to work with Startup TNT and thrilled to be selected as the winner!” commented Dr. Toshi Yokota, co-founder and chief strategy officer at OligomicsTx, on the news. “It’s wonderful to have the support of our community through this collaborative process in terms of scientific and business diligence. As a company with several exciting preclinical assets to develop, the funding from Startup TNT will help us build the foundations of our business operations and facilitate work on the critical IP for our lead program. We thank everyone at Startup TNT and API, especially the investors, for their support and belief in OligomicsTx.”

OligomicsTx is in the early stages of developing advanced therapies that can effectively combat rare and hard-to-treat nervous system disorders.

“Once again, this year’s Startup TNT Life Sciences Summit, powered by API, showcased companies that are advancing health outcomes through pioneering research and biotech breakthroughs,” said Tim Lynn, co-founder of Startup TNT. “Congratulations to everyone, including the founders who took part, as well as the investors and partners who made this year’s program possible. It’s clear that innovation is alive and well across the Prairies.”

The Life Sciences Investment Summit, hosted by Startup TNT and powered by API, is a platform for life sciences entrepreneurs seeking seed-stage funding and investors interested in life sciences. Across three previous life sciences summits, Startup TNT has invested more than $1.4M into 10 different startups.

"At API, we believe in the power of collaboration to drive progress in the life sciences," said Andrew MacIsaac, CEO of API. "This partnership with Startup TNT is important, as it accelerates the life-changing research of ventures like OligomicsTX and other finalists. These companies embody the transformative potential of Canada's life sciences sector."

Over the past 5 years, API has grown to be one of Canada's leading not-for-profit organizations supporting the life sciences sector by helping researchers and innovators commercialize their ideas, incubating startups and spinoffs, and training students as part of real-world industry teams. Since its founding, API has supported over 75 companies, including more than 50 SMEs, scale-ups, and spinoffs incubated.

Startup TNT also facilitates a cleantech and agri-food investment summit. Following the completion of these 2024 Sector Summits, Startup TNT has now raised over $13 million in seed-stage capital for 90+ companies across Western Canada.

Summit IX Applications Open

Startup TNT is now accepting applications for its Spring Summit IX which aims to raise $1M for Prairie-based startups across all industry verticals. Four unique Summit streams will be held for startup companies located in Edmonton (Northern Alberta), Calgary (Southern Alberta), Saskatchewan (Provincial), and Manitoba (Provincial). The deadline for companies to apply is April 15, 2024. The investor kick-off is April 24, 2024. Learn more at startuptnt.com/summit-ix 

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Media contact:
William Johnson
Startup TNT
will@startuptnt.com
604.619.4163

About Startup TNT

Startup TNT is the most active pre-seed and seed stage investor in Western Canada (CVCA, 2023). We are a community of entrepreneurs, scientists, investors, innovators, and startup supporters that gather every week to have fun, share stories, and build great companies. With 90+ investments into companies that are 40% women-led and 25% BIPOC-led, we have one of the most diverse portfolios in the country. Co-investors on TNT deals include Panache Ventures, Hustle Fund, BDC Capital, Y Combinator and Thin Air Labs. TNT Capital, our $5M fund, invests in companies across Western Canada through our Investment Summits. Learn more at StartupTNT.com.

About API

API is one of Canada's largest not-for-profit life sciences commercialization organizations, dedicated to enhancing quality of life (sciences). As an industry-funded not-for-profit, API provides end-to-end support to life sciences researchers, businesses, and innovators on their journey from idea to commercialization. With scientific leadership from Nobel Laureate Sir Michael Houghton, API provides strategic capacity and access to facilities and experts that help life sciences projects reach the market. With a commitment to sharing expertise, resources, and infrastructure, API aims to build an unparalleled life sciences sector driving prosperity for all. Learn more at: https://appliedpharma.ca/about

Calgary, AB–April 3, 2024–Startup TNT, a non-profit focused on capital access for startups, today announced Connect X as its 2024 Cleantech Investment Summit winner.

Connect X topped four other finalists to secure the win, which includes over $200,000 in equity investment. The total amount includes commitments from Startup TNT’s syndicate of qualified angel investors and $50,000 from Startup TNT’s venture capital fund, TNT Capital.

“We are thrilled and honoured to have emerged as the winner of the prestigious Startup TNT Cleantech Summit 2024,” commented Pratik Ghoshal, founder and CEO, Connect X, on the news. “This transformative 9-week journey has not only validated our efforts at Connect X but has also refined our value propositions by leaps and bounds. The invaluable support and encouragement from the investors and mentors at Startup TNT have instilled in us a deep sense of responsibility as we embark on this exciting next chapter of execution, validation and commercialization. With the meaningful investment secured, we are eager to further refine our technology, expand our team, and execute our pilot with confidence, driving impactful change in the cleantech industry globally, as a proud Canadian and Albertan company.”

Connect X leverages technology to modernize aging electricity grids, ultimately leading to savings of energy usage and managed demands, and therefore decreasing energy costs with reliable electricity.

The other four finalists were Aqua-Cell Energy, C02 Brew, Ena Solution, and MissionNet.

“Once again, this year’s Startup TNT Cleantech Summit showcased companies that are fueling the next wave of sustainability through climate-tech innovation,” said Zack Storms, co-founder of Startup TNT. “Congratulations to everyone, including the founders who took part, as well as the investors and partners who made this year’s program possible. It’s clear that cleantech innovation is thriving across the Prairies.”

The Cleantech Investment Summit is a platform for cleantech entrepreneurs and innovators seeking seed-stage funding. This Summit allows them to receive seed funding for their idea or business and network with investors and professionals from the startup and the cleantech ecosystem. Across four cleantech summits, Startup TNT has invested more than $1.8M into 12 different startups.

Startup TNT also facilitates both an agri-food and a life sciences Investment Summit concurrent with this Cleantech Summit. Following the completion of these 2024 Sector Summits, Startup TNT has now raised over $13 million in seed-stage capital for 90+ companies across Western Canada.

Summit IX Applications Open

Startup TNT is now accepting applications for its Spring Summit IX which aims to raise $1M for Prairie-based startups across all industry verticals. Four unique Summit streams will be held for startup companies located in Edmonton (Northern Alberta), Calgary (Southern Alberta), Saskatchewan (Provincial), and Manitoba (Provincial). The deadline for companies to apply is April 15, 2024. The investor kick-off is April 24, 2024. Learn more at startuptnt.com/summit-ix

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Media contact:
William Johnson
Startup TNT
will@startuptnt.com
604.619.4163

About Startup TNT

Startup TNT is the most active pre-seed and seed stage investor in Western Canada (CVCA, 2023). We are a community of entrepreneurs, scientists, investors, innovators, and startup supporters that gather every week to have fun, share stories, and build great companies. With 90+ investments into companies that are 40% women-led and 25% BIPOC-led, we have one of the most diverse portfolios in the country. Co-investors on TNT deals include Panache Ventures, Hustle Fund, BDC Capital, Y Combinator and Thin Air Labs. TNT Capital, our $5M fund, invests in companies across Western Canada through our Investment Summits. Learn more at StartupTNT.com.

Startup TNT, Western Canada’s most active pre-seed and seed investor, announced the top companies in its 2024 Sector Summits, which are collectively taking home more than $500,000 in investments. The three winners were crowned on March 14, 2024 at three concurrently held Summit Finale events in Edmonton, Calgary and Regina. Each winner is receiving an aggregated pool of investment of between $120,000 and $210,000 from a combination of local angel investors and TNT's venture capital fund.

Cleantech Summit winner Connect X secured over $200,000. Calgary-based Connect X leverages technology to modernize aging electricity grids, ultimately leading to savings of energy usage and managed demands, and therefore decreasing energy costs with reliable electricity.

• The other four cleantech finalists were Edmonton-based Aqua-Cell Energy, and Calgary companies C02 Brew, Ena Solution and MissionNet.

Life Sciences Summit (powered by API) winner OligomicsTx secured over $175,000. OligomicsTx is in the early stages of developing advanced therapies that can effectively combat rare and hard-to-treat nervous system disorders.

• Two other finalists, Qualisure and PulmVita also secured deal commitments from participating investors. The other finalists were Edmonton-based MACH32, Calgary-based Wave View Imaging and Vancouver-based Difinity Solutions.

Agri-Food Summit winner BetterCart Analytics secured over $140,000. BetterCart Analytics leverages AI to help organizations access real-time food supply chain data for a range of purposes to improve their business. The startup has previously secured an investment deal from Startup TNT as part of the 2023 regional Saskatchewan Investment Summit.

• Two other 2024 finalists, Calgary-based AgGene and Vancouver-based Geco Engineering also secured deal commitments from participating investors. The other two finalists were Saskatoon’s Rayhawk Technologies and North Vancouver’s Maia Farms.

“Once again, this year’s Startup TNT Sector Summit showcased an incredible crop of companies that are fueling the next wave of innovation,” said Zack Storms, co-founder of Startup TNT. “These ventures are focused on improving outcomes for people and the planet – and we’re thrilled to be able to support these entrepreneurs in their mission. Congratulations to everyone, including the founders who took part, as well as the investors and partners who made this year’s program possible.”

Startup TNT’s tri-annual Investment Summits are a platform for entrepreneurs and innovators seeking seed-stage funding. The Summit provides an opportunity to receive seed funding for founders and to build relationships with investors and other participants in the startup community.

For investors, the Summit offers a team-based diligence process, which provides a more efficient, distributed model for experienced angels to make seed-stage investments, and a collaborative training model for those exploring angel investing for the first-time. At the end of the process, selected startups typically take home upwards of $100,000 from angel investors, while Startup TNT’s own venture capital fund, TNT Capital, invests another $50,000 into the winners. Every year, Startup TNT facilitates between $400k and $1 million of investment into each of its communities.

Earlier this year, Startup TNT was recognized in CVCA’s 2023 Canadian Venture Capital Market Overview as the most active pre-seed and seed stage investor in Western Canada. Following the completion of these 2024 Sector Summits, Startup TNT has now raised over $13 million in seed-stage capital for 90+ companies across Western Canada.

Summit IX Applications Open

Startup TNT is now accepting applications for its Spring Summit IX which aims to raise $1M for Prairie-based startups across all industry verticals. Four unique Summit streams will be held for startup companies located in Edmonton (Northern Alberta), Calgary (Southern Alberta), Saskatchewan (Provincial), and Manitoba (Provincial). The deadline for companies to apply is April 15, 2024. The investor kick-off is April 24, 2024. Learn more at startuptnt.com/summit-ix

Quotes from the Winners:

Pratik Ghoshal, founder and CEO, Connect X: “We are thrilled and honoured to have emerged as the winner of the prestigious Startup TNT cleantech summit 2024. This transformative 9-week journey has not only validated our efforts at Connect X but has also refined our value propositions by leaps and bounds. The invaluable support and encouragement from the investors and mentors at Startup TNT have instilled in us a deep sense of responsibility as we embark on this exciting next chapter of execution, validation and commercialization. With the meaningful investment secured, we are eager to further refine our technology, expand our team, and execute our pilot with confidence, driving impactful change in the cleantech industry globally, as a proud Canadian/Albertan company.”

Dr. Toshi Yokota, co-founder and chief strategy officer at OligomicsTx: “We, at OligomicsTx, are truly grateful for the opportunity to work with Startup TNT and thrilled to be selected as the winner! It’s wonderful to have the support of our community through this collaborative process in terms of scientific and business diligence. As a company with several exciting preclinical assets to develop, the funding from Startup TNT will help us build the foundations of our business operations and facilitate work on the critical IP for our lead program. We thank everyone at Startup TNT and API, especially the investors, for their support and belief in OligomicsTx.”

Melanie Morrison, co-founder and CEO of BetterCart: “We’re thrilled to have won this year’s Agri-Food Summit! I valued the opportunity to have our company introduced to more individuals in the investor ecosystem across Western Canada, and to meet new investors throughout the due diligence process. As a big data company with AI as part of our core tech, we’re laser-focused on data acquisition, model testing and training, and application for the purposes of horizontal and vertical growth. With this new capital, we’ll be investing in R&D and accelerating our client growth.”

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Media contact:
William Johnson
Startup TNT
will@startuptnt.com
604.619.4163

On our way to becoming Western Canada’s most active pre-seed and seed investor, partners have played a critical role in our journey, as well as the success of the companies we back. One of those sponsors is Natural Products Canada (NPC), one of our 2024 Agri-Food Best Friend Forever. As we’re under two weeks until this year’s Summit Finale, we took some time to catch up with Shelley King, NPC chief executive officer to discuss how NPC propel innovations spanning multiple sectors and leverages expertise, capital, and an extensive network to support startups.

TNT: There are a lot of organizations out there supporting early-stage companies. Where does NPC fit into all of it?

SK: NPC is focused on natural product innovation that is better for people, animals and the planet. So that gives us both a broad and focused outlook at the same time. Focused because we are exclusively interested in natural product solutions – those with biologically-based innovation at their core – so not software or IT or drones. But at the same time, it’s broad because those innovations can be applied to nearly every sector. Things like bio-based resins and plastics for the manufacturing sectors, or functional ingredients for natural health products or animal feed, or biopesticides for the agriculture sector.

TNT: Why the focus on natural products when there are so many other interesting Canadian innovations?

SK: There’s a couple of reasons. One is the demand for cleaner, greener, healthier solutions is coming from nearly every industry. We have consumers, governments and major multinationals making decisions to get the planet back on track by transitioning how we produce our goods and services. That’s not only something we strongly believe is the right thing to do, it’s a trillion-dollar market opportunity.

And two, Canada is already such a leader in the bio-based side of things. We have exceptional natural resources – so much land and water that supports bio-based traditional industries like forestry, farming and fishing. When you couple that with Canada’s exceptional research capacity, you have the foundation for a truly unstoppable national bioeconomy. NPC exists to help Canada seize that opportunity.

TNT: And what is it that NPC actually does to help?

SK: At a high level, NPC brings a mix of expertise, capital and networks around innovative opportunities. Some of that comes from the national NPC team through our advice and guidance. We have an experienced team across the country. They dig in with tough questions about the technical and business aspects to ensure founders are taking the next best step on their commercialization path. 

TNT: And you have some funding too? 

SK: Yes. NPC has a really strategic suite of non-dilutive funding programs that provide up to $350,000 to develop and de-risk key opportunities. That’s a big deal to both the founders and the investors who are looking at these opportunities. Both of these parties see that when NPC funds  an opportunity, it is a major endorsement because we don’t just hand out funds to anyone who comes along. We spend a lot of time looking at the full potential of the company before we put one dollar towards it. 

And then we also have an extensive network of investors – including Nàdarra Ventures, which NPC was instrumental in launching - industry leaders, and a broad range of other resources like government programs, regulatory and IP experts, and scale-up and distribution partners. We gather all these resources around the opportunities that we think have high potential to become viable businesses addressing real-world needs. 

TNT: What do you think are the most pressing issues for start-ups? And how do you help them?

SK: Founders almost always tell us capital is their biggest issue. But we actually think it’s more nuanced than that. We know from our experience as investors and working with investors that capital finds opportunity. So there has to be more than just a product; there has to be a solid business opportunity. 

Often we see good products, but key gaps in other aspects of the business plan that haven’t been adequately addressed. If it doesn’t have a strong value proposition to the end customer, if they haven’t proven they can scale it, if there’s no IP strategy, if the regulatory side hasn’t been considered, if the financial model hasn’t been worked out, then you’re a long way from having a business that can attract capital. We work really closely with founders to make sure they’re thinking about all those critical pieces of the puzzle. If they work on those, the capital will follow.

Of course, if they do have the pieces in place, we’re happy to help make introductions to qualified investors. We’ve been fortunate to work with a lot of great companies so we have a bit of a track record with investors looking to us for pipeline and due diligence support. It’s one of the main reasons we got involved with StartUp TNT. Their track record in attracting angel investors around opportunities is impressive. Many of our clients have benefited from this network. We thought NPC could add value to that equation.

TNT: Speaking of that, who are some of your clients?

SK: We have so many to choose from! Across the country we have nearly 2000 opportunities at various stages of development. Some are further along, like Crush Dynamics that makes a high-quality food ingredient from a derivative of the wine industry. Crush received early investment through TNT. And we have 13 clients in the current roster of participants in StartUp TNT, including some that we have helped to de-risk through our commercialization programs like AltaGreen and their hemp-based animal feed, and BioBoost with their yeast-based biotechnology platform. 

TNT: How can investors or founders get involved with NPC?

SK: The best way to start is to talk to the regional director closest to you. The team is always happy to have a conversation to learn what your needs and interests are, and see what we can do to help.

Join us at the 2024 Agri-Food Summit on March 14

Register to join the Finale Pitch Night LIVE at the Saskatchewan Science Centre in Regina (or to watch the livestream).

Startup TNT, a non-profit focused on capital access for entrepreneurs seeking seed-stage funding, was recognized in CVCA’s 2023 Canadian Venture Capital Market Overview as the most active pre-seed and seed stage investor in Western Canada.

In the report, released on February 22, 2024, CVCA noted that Startup TNT’s 16 pre-seed investments make it the most prolific pre-seed investor in the country. Combined with its additional 13 seed investments in 2023, Startup TNT is the second-most prolific early-stage investor – with 29 deals – across Canada out of the 15 acknowledged in the report’s Pre-Seed and Seed category breakdowns (pg 16-19).

“Against the backdrop of tech sector uncertainty, and in a year where Canadian venture capital funding dropped, we doubled-down, maintaining our belief in the power of grassroots community engagement to uncover promising investment opportunities,” said Tim Lynn, co-founder of Startup TNT.

“Startup TNT was born out of a desire to help entrepreneurs build from their own regions, and to unlock access to a community of angel investors who want to back the next generation of great Canadian companies,” added Zack Storms, co-founder of TNT. “To that end, we’re proud of the nearly 30 new companies we added to our portfolio last year, and thankful to the investors, partners, and funders who serve as the foundation of our work today, and that will power us as we expand our network and impact.”

Startup TNT’s tri-annual Investment Summits are a platform for entrepreneurs and innovators seeking seed-stage funding. The Summit provides an opportunity to receive seed funding for founders and to build relationships with investors and other participants in the startup community. For investors, the Summit offers a team-based diligence process, which provides a more efficient, distributed model for experienced angels to make seed-stage investments, and a collaborative training model for those exploring angel investing for the first-time. At the end of the process, selected startups typically take home upwards of $100,000 from angel investors, while Startup TNT’s own venture capital fund, TNT Capital, invests another $50,000 into the winners.

Every year, Startup TNT facilitates between $400k and $1 million of investment into its communities. “Our belief from day one has been that great entrepreneurs exist everywhere – and their own local communities are best equipped to identify them,” noted Lynn. “Our results to date validate this thesis.”

Over the past five years, Startup TNT has hosted 30 summits, engaged 375 angel investors, and facilitated $12.5 million of investments into 90+ startups. Companies that Startup TNT has helped to raise capital include Drugbank, Omnee, Nimble, PulseMedica, WaitWell, and Illumia Labs. Building on this track record, Startup TNT plans to launch operations in additional provinces over the next 12-24 months. “The long-term goal is to take our community-focused brand of entrepreneurial empowerment and investor education to every underserved ecosystem, starting with key Canadian regions,” Storms said. “While today’s news is exciting, it’s only the beginning.”

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About Startup TNT
Startup TNT is the most active pre-seed and seed stage investor in Western Canada (CVCA, 2023). We are a community of entrepreneurs, scientists, investors, innovators, and startup supporters that gather every week to have fun, share stories, and build great companies. With 90+ investments into companies that are 40% women-led and 25% BIPOC-led, we have one of the most diverse portfolios in the country. Co-investors on TNT deals include Panache Ventures, Hustle Fund, BDC Capital, Y Combinator and Thin Air Labs. TNT Capital, our $5M fund, invests in companies across Western Canada. Learn more at StartupTNT.com.

Media contact:
William Johnson, Startup TNT
Cell: 604.619.4163
Email: will@startuptnt.com

We say this every year, but our current cohort of Investment Sector Summit companies are some of the most innovative we’ve ever seen. Across life sciences, cleantech and agri-food, the top 20 companies in each category reflect the diversity of the four Western Canadian provinces where they’re based.

From therapeutics to pet health, and emissions reduction tech to vertical farming, these startups are tackling big global problems – which means massive opportunity for growth and success.

Check out the top 20 companies in each sector stream below.

Life Sciences Summit Top 20, powered by API

These companies are advancing health through pioneering research and biotech breakthroughs.

• Alaya Biosciences Inc.

• Cubresa

• Difinity Solutions

• FentaGone

• Healda Inc.

• Heros Biotech 

• Lasoo Health

• MACH32 |

• MHCOMBIOTIC INC

• My Fertility Labs

• Neuraura

• OligomicsTx

• PanAccess Innovations Inc.

• Pulmvita Inc.

• Qualisure Diagnostics, Inc

• Sinoveda Canada Inc.

• TraceCure

• Wave View Imaging Inc.

• Wosler Corp

• Zymedyne Therapeutics

Cleantech Summit Top 20

These companies are fueling the next wave of sustainable technology.

• Aqua-Cell Energy

• BioOilSolv

• BrewNature

• CarboMat Inc.

• CHZero Emissions Ltd.

• CO2Brew

• CONNECTEX INC

• Drift Resource Technologies

• ENA Solution Inc

• Finis Energy

• GreenBox Innovations

• HazTrack Inc.

• MissionNet

• Nanode Battery Technologies

• Pivot Electric Machines Corp

• Splice N Connect

• Statvis Analytics

• SynBioBlox Innovations Ltd.

• UGI Innovations Inc.

• Wave9 Technology

Agri-Food Summit Top 20

These companies are elevating the future of food. 

• 7 Summits Snacks

• AgGene

• AltaGreen Products inc.

• Bander Industries INC

• BeriTech Inc.

• BetterCart Analytics

• Bioboost Synbio

• Cellar Insights inc

• ChemBioPower Ltd.

• Combinesettings.com

• Dark Horse Ag Ventures

• Geco Engineering

• Gummy Nutrition Lab

• Maia Farms

• RAYHAWK TECHNOLOGIES INC.

• Renaissance Bioscience Corp.

• SkyAcres Agrotechnologies Inc.

• TerraGen Technology Group Inc.

• Visiwise (formerly Shipup Global Solutions)

• Wize Tea

Learn more about these startups:

Register to join the Top 20 Pitch Night (Feb 8) and after-party or Finale (March 14) online or in-person. Save your spot.

The Startup TNT Life Sciences Summit is a key pillar of our work and wouldn’t be possible without our partners at API. And as we find ourselves in the midst of the 2024 Sector Summit season, we caught up with Paramita Chaudhuri Basu, API’s director of programs and ecosystem development, to discuss the Summit’s origins, the importance of empowering life sciences innovators, and what the Summit’s legacy will be.

TNT: What was the catalyst for the first Life Sciences Summit?

Paramita (PCP): Andrew MacIsaac, API’s CEO, identified the need at the 2021 TNT Investment Summit. The path-to-market for life sciences companies is longer than for any other technology, as the industry is highly regulated. A Life Sciences Summit would even the playing field for life sciences companies to get investments and grow.

TNT: How does your partnership with Startup TNT help further API’s mission?

PCP: Startup TNT has been an amazing partner for API. We believe in leveraging the strengths in our community and TNT has been changing the investment landscape in Alberta. A partnership with Startup TNT is a huge win for the life sciences entrepreneurial ecosystem across the prairies.

TNT: What’s the biggest misconception around investing in early-stage life sciences startups?

PCP: One of the biggest misconceptions is the amount of time it takes and the amount of funding it takes to bring a life sciences product to market. The sector is research intensive, and heavily regulated. The products directly impact patients, and the stringent health regulations ensure they are safe and effective.

TNT: Who is an ideal investor for this startup category? Can anyone do it?

PCP: An ideal investor for this category is someone who is looking for a huge return, but is willing to give the time to reap the benefits of their investment. They want to support commercialization of academically generated IP, and believe strongly in the potential in the product and the expertise of the team.

TNT: For medical professionals who want to angel invest, how do you think their knowledge and background impact their Summit experience?

PCP: Medical professionals have the knowledge to do the academic due diligence on the technology. They also have the opportunity to advise others on the market potential. Investing with Startup TNT allows them to enjoy the experience, because they know the business due diligence is in good hands.

TNT: Why is empowering seed-stage life sciences startups to raise capital important for the future of the sector – and for Canada as a whole?

PCP: In one word - cascade. More investments at an early stage lead to more company creation, more seasoned entrepreneurs to mentor fledgling founders, more IP generated as industry pull leads to academic push, more successful exits, more ROI, which leads to even more investment. 

TNT: What role does the Life Sciences Summit play in cultivating community among innovators, investors, and front-line professionals?

PCP: The Life Sciences Summit is a great way to build the ecosystem by showcasing innovative companies, building excitement for investments in the summit, educating the community about the health regulations for life sciences companies, engaging in conversations with other entrepreneurs, etc. 

TNT: A decade from now, what will investors and investors remember about this year’s Life Sciences Summit? What will Summit’s legacy be?

PCP: A decade from now, there will be a successful exit for the winner of this year’s Life Sciences Summit. That exit will trigger the winner to invest in 10 more early stage life sciences companies. The Summit’s legacy will be a mini Silicon Valley environment where more investment happens in life sciences.

TNT: How can more investors and startups get involved today?

PCP: Investors who are considering investing should engage with the sessions to educate themselves and connect with other investors and startups in the community; startups who are thinking of raising capital should network with investors and peers to build relationships and identify resources.

Register Now: Top 20 Pitch Night

The Life Sciences Top 20 Companies were just announced. The Top 20 Pitch Night is Thursday, February 8, 2024. Get your free ticket to watch online.

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