Amid shifting market dynamics, the 2025 edition of Invest Canada arrives at a pivotal moment for the country’s private capital industry. Liquidity constraints, fundraising pressures, and increased focus on M&A and secondary markets continue to reshape the investment landscape, while evolving federal policies and global economic uncertainty, including anticipated moves from the new U.S. administration, add to the complexity. Since the late 1970s, Invest Canada, CVCA’s flagship investment event for venture capital and private equity draws senior leaders from Canada’s top investment funds, and it remains the premier forum for strategic insights and high-level networking during a critical period for the industry.
Spearheading this year’s conference are co-chairs, Kristina Williams, CEO of Alberta Enterprise Corporation (AEC), and Dino DeLuca, Partner at TriWest Capital Partners — two of the country’s most respected private capital leaders.
“Invest Canada provides speakers and sessions that are highly topical and current for our industry while serving as a collision point for key decision-makers,” says Williams.
DeLuca echoes this sentiment: “IC25 is the largest gathering of VC & PE professionals, investors, and advisors in the country. It’s where meaningful conversations and critical connections take place.”
Williams and DeLuca are joined by a carefully assembled planning committee representing a diverse cross-section of Canada’s private capital expertise. The committee includes Janet Bannister of Staircase Ventures, Tyson Birchall from Longbow Capital, and Judy Fairburn of The51 Ventures. Also contributing their industry insight are Lauren Harris from Northleaf Capital Partners, Tobin Hayward of Roynat Capital, and Hugues Lalancette from Inovia Capital. Rounding out the group are Irfhan Rawji of Relay Ventures, Whitney Rockley from McRock Capital, and Darryl Sam of Fengate Private Equity.
Together, this team is shaping an agenda that reflects the evolving priorities of senior-level decision-makers, ensuring Invest Canada ’25 provides a critical platform for meaningful dialogue, high-value connections, and strategic insights.
Calgary’s selection as the host city underscores its growing significance in Canada’s private capital ecosystem, with Alberta consistently demonstrating robust economic performance. Kristina Williams highlights the region’s dynamic investment landscape, stating, “Alberta is where things are happening. With the region’s impressive growth and entrepreneurial spirit, Calgary provides the perfect environment for this conference.” Alberta’s five-year compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) for venture capital investment stands at an impressive 48.5%, significantly outperforming the national average of 13%, further emphasizing the province’s role as a thriving hub for private capital activity.
Dino DeLuca echoes this perspective, emphasizing Calgary’s strong economic fundamentals. “Calgary’s thriving private capital market, supported by leading economic indicators, makes it the ideal backdrop for meaningful conversations and investment opportunities,” he says. Alberta leads the nation with the highest real GDP per capita at CAD $79.1K and the highest disposable income per capita at CAD $46.7K, while also maintaining the lowest provincial debt-to-GDP ratio at 9.1%. These metrics, combined with Calgary’s leadership in both traditional and clean energy sectors, reinforce the city’s position as a prime venue for connecting capital and opportunity.
Beyond its investment growth, Calgary offers world-class amenities, including luxury accommodations, fine dining, a vibrant cultural scene, and close proximity to the Rocky Mountains, making it an exceptional destination for both business and leisure. Its entrepreneurial spirit further enhances its appeal as a hub for strategic discussions and partnerships.
Having sold out for three consecutive years and with heightened interest from LPs, Invest Canada remains the defining event for Canada’s private equity and venture capital communities. The conference has drawn over 500 leading organizations from across the private capital industry over the past five years, making it the room to be in for those seeking meaningful connections and actionable insights. Attendees consistently represent a powerful mix of general partners (41%), limited partners (26%), and industry stakeholders, professional service providers, and policymakers (33%).
This diverse representation ensures decision-makers from across the investment landscape — ranging from established firms to emerging managers — convene for unparalleled collaboration, deal flow, and strategic discussions.
Building on its past success, Invest Canada ’25 will expand its content and networking opportunities with new, targeted programming. LP-only tracks will offer tailored content exclusively for limited partners, while GP-only tracks will provide focused discussions for general partners. The conference will also reintroduce dedicated content for emerging managers, featuring fresh sessions that explore innovative strategies and insights unique to this group. To further elevate the attendee experience, curated social events and structured networking sessions will foster deeper connections among top investors and industry leaders.
Whether you’re seeking actionable insights or building relationships with top investors, this is the must-attend event for staying ahead in the evolving market. Registration opens in February – add your name to the list to be notified before the general public!