VEF's Signature Co-Founder & Advisor Matchmaking
Build Your Startup Dream Team - Co-Founder & Advisor Matchmaking
Starting and scaling a business is challenging; but the good news is you don't have to do it alone! Looking for a co-founder or advisor to help take your startup to the next level?
Join VEF’s Build Your Startup Dream Team (formerly Co-Founder & Advisor Speed-Dating), where solo founders, technical experts, business leaders, and industry advisors connect in a fast-paced, high-energy networking event.
Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: UBC Robson Square, Suite 1900 (Innovation UBC Hub - e@UBC co-working space)
💡 Fireside Chat Spotlight
We’re thrilled to welcome Tanis Jorge, Author of The Cofounder’s Handbook and Founder of The Cofounder's Hub, for a special Fireside Chat.
With 20+ years of startup experience and multiple successful exits (all with the same cofounder!), Tanis will share her best-kept-secrets for building successful cofounder partnerships.
🎤 Event Host & Moderator
MC: Sherry Zhao, Founder, Strillence Strategic and VEF Board Member
Fireside Chat Moderator: Amy Rae, Partner, Vanedge Capital and VEF Board Member
Who Should Apply and Attend?
Solo Founders looking for a technical or business co-founder, or key first hire
Advisors & Mentors open to joining an Advisory Board or guiding an early-stage startup
Entrepreneurs and Tech Experts ready to team up or expand their network
How It Works
Here’s what to expect if selected:
Pitch Your Venture – If accepted, you’ll present on stage (100 seconds, PowerPoint format);
Speed-Matchmaking Rounds – Two-minute 1:1s between Group 1 (founders) and Group 2 (advisors/experts) to explore potential partnerships;
Showcase Booths – Presenting companies will have space to share their innovation; and,
Badges & Match Signals – Participants will be identified as:
Looking for a Business Co-founder
Looking for a Technical Co-founder
Looking for an Advisor (with specified expertise)
🎯 The Goal?
Spark conversations, ignite partnerships, and walk away with next steps - and maybe your future co-founder.
How to Apply?
Fill out the application form for a chance to pitch and participate in matchmaking.
👉 Apply Here to Pitch or Join Matchmaking
All applications will be reviewed by VEF’s board members, including seasoned investors and industry experts.
APPLY TO PITCH – Limited Spots Available!
🗓️ Application Deadline: Apply by May 31, 2025 to be considered as a founder, advisor, or mentor in this exciting matchmaking event.
No startup? No problem! Whether you are a founder, a student or new grad, in a career transition looking at new roles, or just a passionate member of Vancouver's startup ecosystem, we hope to see you here!
Ready to meet your match?
👉 Apply Now to Pitch or Register to Attend Here
Limited spaces. Big potential. Don’t miss out.