Date/Time
Date(s) - 20/03/2025
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm


Are you a tech start-up founder looking to raise capital? This discussion, hosted by a group of established panelists, will dive into the rapidly evolving investment landscape to help audience members gain an understanding of the shifts in funding strategies, emerging sectors, and investor expectations that will be critical for securing growth capital as we move into 2025. The panel will offer practical guidance on navigating the debt/equity balance, identifying key industry trends, and strategically positioning your startup to attract investment.

Takeaways for Founders: This session will equip tech startup founders with the knowledge and strategies needed to raise capital effectively in 2025. By staying ahead of emerging investment trends, understanding the evolving capital structure landscape, and aligning with investor preferences, founders will be well-positioned to attract the right investors and scale their businesses.

This event is hosted by The North Group, Communitech, Finalta, Green Sky, Graphite, and Sixty Degree Capital.

Moderator

Matthew Robertson, Director of Capital Services, Communitech

Matt is the Director of Capital Services at Communitech, where he helps startups and scale-ups secure growth capital. He previously worked as a senior leader and operator of a Canadian cleantech startup and has over 7 years of experience in financial services through various roles including investment banking, corporate development, and risk underwriting. He holds a Bachelor of Mathematics from the University of Waterloo and an MBA from the Ivey Business School at Western University. Passionate about fostering innovation, Matthew plays a key role in supporting Canada’s tech ecosystem.

Panelists

Gerry Fung, Partner, North Group

Gerry is a Professional Engineer, accountant, management consultant, angel investor, and an experienced business executive who has worked with Canadian technology companies since 2003.While working closely with Golden Triangle Angel Network, his current practice at North Group focuses on advising early-stage technology start-ups on how to leverage various government funding programs to fund growth.

Nikhil Rodye, Vice President, Finalta Capital

Nikhil Rodye is a sales leader specializing in non-dilutive capital, helping startups and scaling businesses optimize liquidity and growth. At Finalta Capital, he tailors financial strategies to extend runway and improve cash flow through flexible “smart debt” financing. A trusted partner for high-growth companies, he shares insights on venture debt and capital optimization at industry events. Previously, he held leadership roles at Easly, Cadbury, Levi Strauss, and Staples across Europe and North America. A CPA and investor in Canada’s tech ecosystem, Nikhil bridges finance and business strategy to drive success.

Jenny Lo, Associate, Sixty Degree Capital

Jenny is an Associate at Sixty Degree Capital, where she focuses on investments in digital infrastructure and transformative software innovation. Prior to this, she worked at Cathay Venture, the venture capital arm of Taiwan’s largest bank, leading sourcing and due diligence efforts. Jenny holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from National Chiao Tung University and a Master of Science in Finance from the University of Rochester. Her international experience and financial expertise contribute to her role in identifying and supporting innovative technology ventures.

Neil Peet, Partner, Green Sky Ventures

Neil Peet is a Partner at GreenSky Ventures, where he leads intake efforts and focuses on sourcing new investments and conducting due diligence. He joined GreenSky in 2015 as an Analyst and has been instrumental in supporting entrepreneurs across various investee companies. Prior to GreenSky, Neil was a Senior Consultant at SECOR/KPMG Strategy Consulting and founded a software development company. He holds an HBA from the Ivey School at Western University, as well as an MBA and MGA from the University of Toronto.

Jude Sacramenthas, Principal, Graphite Ventures

Jude Sacramenthas is the Vice President of Ecosystems at Graphite Ventures, one of Canada’s largest and most active institutional seed investors, with approximately 200 portfolio companies, 50 exits, and a 10% failure rate. Currently deploying its 4th fund, a $120MM seed fund, Graphite Ventures focuses on early-stage investing, ecosystem building, and platform development. Jude brings extensive experience in scaling startups, having previously served as VP at RBCx Early Stage, where he helped shape its early-stage practice, and spent 14 years in banking in various progressive roles.

Date and Time: Thursday, March 20, 5:00 – 8:00 pm ET
Location: Highline Beta, Sterling Tower Corporation, 362 Bay St. Suite 200, Toronto, ON M5H 2W9