Reverse Pitch Series Vol.1: Exploring Debt Financing for Growing Businesses
🪙 Looking for the right source of funding to grow your business?
Whether you’re a startup founder or a corporate leader exploring financial solutions, this event is for you.
To kick off 2025, we’re excited to introduce a new series of exclusive & unique events: the Convergence "Reverse Pitch Series"!
This series offers entrepreneurs and business leaders the opportunity to learn from - and connect with - key funding sources, including investors, VCs, loan providers and programs, and other financial experts who can help take growing businesses to the next level.
At Reverse Pitch Series Vol.1, leading financial experts will introduce startup and corporate loan programs designed to help businesses scale. You’ll gain insights into eligibility, success stories, and potential pitfalls—so you can find the right funding solution for your needs. 🚀💡
KEY TAKEAWAYS
✅ Learn about different loan programs tailored for startups and corporates
✅ Understand who qualifies—and who doesn’t—for these funding options
✅ Hear real-life success stories and practical use cases
✅ Ask questions directly to industry experts
✅ Connect with financial professionals and fellow entrepreneurs
AGENDA
📝 5:00 Doors Open + Networking
📝 5:30 Speaker Pitches (5 mins x 3 organizations)
📝 5:45 Panel Discussion (Submit questions at registration!)
📝 6:15 Q&A
📝 6:30 Networking
*Subject to change
SPEAKERS & PANELISTS
🗣️ Britt Siu – Senior Relationship Manager, Canadian Commercial Banking, BMO
Over 9 years of experience Providing guidance and strategic lending, deposit, and banking solutions to facilitate growth for businesses across the Greater Vancouver Area.
🗣️ Jeffrey Lightburn – Director, Technology and Innovation, National Bank of Canada
Jeff is a Director, Tech & Innovation, at National Bank where he is an advisor and relationship manager for Tech businesses across SaaS, hardtech, robotics, clean tech. Prior to his role at National, Jeff was the Vice-President of SVB Canada where he underwrote loans to early-stage venture backed tech business in Western Canada. Jeff has 10 years’ experience in commercial lending and is born and raised in Vancouver. He also co-founded a small business.
🗣️ Charles Tong – CEO, Synic Software
Charles is a technology entrepreneur and business consultant with a strong background in both software development and strategic growth. He is the Founder and CEO of heymate!, a cashback loyalty platform, and the CEO of Synic Software, a technology consulting firm specializing in custom software solutions. A former professional programmer, Charles combines technical expertise with business acumen to drive digital transformation. In addition to his work in technology, he advises SMEs in accessing capital through both dilutive and non-dilutive funding strategies, helping businesses scale effectively.
👤 Moderated by Matthew Housser: Co-founder & CEO, Convergence
WHY ATTEND?
🌱 Discover funding options that match your business needs
🌱 Get expert advice on navigating the loan process
🌱 Build valuable connections with financial professionals and fellow entrepreneurs
👉👉 Register Now! Seats are limited—secure yours today! 🎟️
✒️ CONSENT
Please note that photographs and videos will be taken during the event for marketing purposes. By registering for this event, you consent to appearing in such media without the express written permission of those who are included in the photographs and videos.
You also agree to have registration information shared by the event organizers.
🏢 VENUE INTRO
Convergence is a hub for innovation, alongside its sister companies Pixel Ramen (UX Research & Design) and Giant Leap (Machine Learning as a Service). Together, they craft award-winning digital solutions for businesses and public sector organizations.