Adapting Fast
Welcome
If you’re a young person, a newcomer, or an aspiring entrepreneur in Canada today, chances are you’ve had to adapt fast.
Whether it’s navigating the rise of AI, entering a job market that feels like a moving target, or finding your footing in a new country, the pace of change is unrelenting. But amidst the uncertainty, there’s also a tremendous opportunity: to reimagine how we support people to build meaningful, resilient, and entrepreneurial careers.
2024 marked a turning point for Venture for Canada.
We widened the lens. Not just in who we serve, but in how we define entrepreneurial potential.
This year, we expanded support to mid-career professionals and newcomers. We launched two new pilots—our Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) Academy and International Student Program (ISP)—to test new models of access and impact.
We saw more pathways into our programs, more flexibility in delivering them, and a renewed focus on adaptability as a core value. This wasn’t just a strategic shift. It was a response to what the moment demands.
The theme of this year’s report, Widening the Lens, reflects the evolution of our mission. Venture for Canada has always existed to foster entrepreneurial mindsets, but what that looks like has grown in scope and depth. We’ve embraced experimentation while keeping a clear focus on impact.
Here are a few numbers that tell part of the story, beyond the 2 new pilot programs launched as mentioned above:
- 2,989 placements across all programs
- 2,231 student participants supported
- 69% of student participants identified as visible minorities
- 21% of student participants identified as women in STEM
- 12% of student participants identified as LGBTQQIP2AA+
But the real story lies in the people behind these numbers.
This report highlights just a few of the participants, partners, and employers who embody the power of what happens when we invest in potential. Whether it’s a student stepping into their first work-integrated learning placement or a newcomer navigating their way into entrepreneurship, the ripple effect is undeniable and deeply inspiring.
We’ve also grown in how we listen and learn. Experimenting with new models isn’t always smooth, but it’s worth it when it leads to deeper inclusion, stronger community relationships, and better long-term outcomes.
The past year reinforced for us that listening with curiosity and humility is the most underrated innovation strategy.
This report is personally meaningful for both of us.
After 11 years, Scott is stepping down as CEO. “What started in 2013 as a hopeful idea has grown bigger than I ever imagined,” Scott says.
“It’s been the privilege of a lifetime to lead this organization, and I’ll never take the trust of the VFC community for granted.” Since its founding, Venture for Canada has supported over 10,000 individuals in developing entrepreneurial skills, and it’s only just getting started.
This moment also marks nearly a decade of Parm’s leadership on the board. Over the past nine years, including his current role as Board Chair, Parm has played a central role in shaping VFC’s growth and direction.
“It’s been an honour to help steward an organization grounded in its values and bold in its vision as I deeply believe in the mission of VFC and the community behind it.”
Parm’s strategic insight, thoughtful governance, and commitment to inclusive innovation have guided VFC through growth, challenges, and reinvention.
“It is hard to put into words just how much Scott’s leadership, vision, and heart have meant to all of us,” said Parm. “He didn’t just build a company—he built a family and a community. A place where people could grow, believe in something bigger, and achieve meaningful things together.”
To our alumni, partners, funders, staff, and participants, thank you. Your energy, belief in what’s possible, and commitment to building a more entrepreneurial Canada power this work. We’re proud of how far we’ve come and even more excited about what's next.
With gratitude,
Scott Stirrett, Founder and CEO
Parm Gill, Board Chair