草莓污视频导航

Feb. 26, 2020

Helping startups develop with good governance: Ventures paired with seasoned advisers to speed success

Haskayne Executive Education develops first program of its kind in Canada
Michael Robinson
Michael Robinson is one of the faculty delivering the Enhancing Private Equity Governance program. Adrian Shellard, for the Haskayne School of Business

All startups originate with a good idea, but it is good governance that ensures an idea develops into a thriving venture. A new program, , developed at the provides a platform for entrepreneurs to connect with seasoned leaders to help speed the development of their idea into a sustainable business.

鈥淓ntrepreneurs often know their product or technology well, but not necessarily the business landscape,鈥 says , PhD, a professor at the Haskayne School of Business and the educational driver of this program (pictured above).聽鈥淭his can open them up to mistakes with legal or intellectual property issues which can be fatal to their business.

Education and coupling these entrepreneurs with experienced leaders can ensure the venture gets off to a good start.

Western Canada has an active innovation ecosystem with Vancouver as a hotbed for startups, venture development gaining in other cities, and Calgary marked as an exciting source for both leadership experience and capital. The just recently announced a western regional headquarters to be located in Calgary to help drive the growth in Western Canada.

What is truly unique about the program, the first of its kind in Canada, is that both ventures and directors apply, and if they are a fit they will embark on the education modules, eventually being paired together to develop a governance road map for the venture. Delivered online with some in-person learning, venture leaders will learn about the governance requirements and responsibilities for angel investors and venture capitalists. Senior business leaders will learn about the best practices that are distinct to early-stage companies.

鈥淔or directors, this is an opportunity to play a significant role in developing the next generation of technology firms in Western Canada,鈥 says Robinson. 鈥淎s a seasoned leader, they can bring their expertise and judgment to the table while connecting with CEOs in exciting new startups.鈥

The program builds on Robinson鈥檚 graduate teaching, extensive experience in the venture capital space, and insights gained from the program at the Haskayne School of Business.

鈥淲e believe that we are going to make a significant difference in the entrepreneurial ecosystem with this initiative,鈥 says Robinson.

for startups close Feb.聽28聽and for advisers March 20.