Canadian Venture Capital & Private Equity Association (CVCA) Company Profile

Background

The Canadian Venture Capital & Private Equity Association (CVCA) is the national organization representing Canada's venture capital and private equity industry. Established in 1974, CVCA's mission is to support its members in fueling the economy of the future by empowering businesses today. The association advocates for policies that foster a favorable investment environment, connects industry professionals, and provides research and educational resources to enhance the private capital ecosystem in Canada.

Key Strategic Focus

CVCA's strategic objectives encompass:

Policy & Advocacy: Championing Canada's innovation and growth ecosystems by ensuring access to vital capital, top talent, and competitive tax policies. The association's policy guidance fosters an environment where private capital drives economic growth and job creation.

Research & Insights: Providing critical insights and analyses, including quarterly market reports, through CVCA Intelligence. This data empowers professionals and analysts to make informed decisions and drive economic growth.

Connection: Facilitating powerful partnerships and collaboration opportunities by leveraging a dynamic network that spans multiple industries and borders, ensuring members are at the forefront of market developments.

Essential Resources: Offering evolving development programs, industry model documents, and best practices to empower professional growth. CVCA aims to keep members informed with industry updates and navigate regulatory shifts effectively.

Financials and Funding

As a member-driven association, CVCA's financial resources are primarily derived from membership fees, event sponsorships, and educational programs. The association does not engage in direct investment activities but focuses on supporting its members who are active investors in the private capital market.

Pipeline Development

While CVCA does not have a product development pipeline, it continuously develops and enhances its services and resources to meet the evolving needs of its members. This includes updating research tools, expanding educational offerings, and organizing events that address current industry challenges and opportunities.

Technological Platform and Innovation

CVCA has developed several proprietary platforms and initiatives to support its members:

CVCA Intelligence: A comprehensive database providing real-time data and analytics on Canadian private equity and venture capital investments, exits, and fundraising activities. This platform enables members to explore, monitor, report, and export up-to-date investment data since 2013.

Canadian Private Capital Investment School (CPCIS): In partnership with the Ivey Academy, this program enhances the skills and knowledge of early-career professionals in the venture capital and private equity sectors, aligning education with the evolving needs of the industry.

Private Capital Governance Program: Launched in collaboration with the Institute of Corporate Directors, this program is designed to enhance governance practices within the venture capital and private equity sectors.

Leadership Team

CVCA's leadership comprises experienced professionals dedicated to advancing the private capital industry in Canada:

Kim Furlong: Serving as the Chief Executive Officer since January 2019, Kim is the association's second full-time CEO and the first woman in the role. Under her leadership, CVCA drafted its first strategic plan, aligning organizational activities with a clear and purposeful direction.

Jeannette Wiltse: Appointed as Chair of the Board of Directors in 2024, Jeannette brings extensive experience from her role at Relay Ventures. Her leadership focuses on promoting diversity and driving the industry toward a globally competitive future.

Leadership Changes

In 2024, Jeannette Wiltse succeeded Rachel Skelton as Chair of the Board of Directors. This transition reflects CVCA's commitment to fostering diverse leadership and ensuring the association remains responsive to the evolving needs of its members.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The Canadian private capital market has experienced significant growth, with over CAD $297 billion invested across more than 7,300 Canadian companies since 2013. In 2024 alone, venture capital investments reached $7.86 billion across 592 deals, while private equity investments totaled $27.5 billion across 658 deals. This growth underscores the critical role of private capital in driving innovation, job creation, and economic development in Canada.

Competitor Analysis

While CVCA serves as the primary association for Canada's private capital industry, similar organizations exist in other jurisdictions:

American Investment Council (AIC): Formerly known as the Private Equity Growth Capital Council, AIC represents the private equity industry in the United States. It focuses on research, advocacy, and promoting best practices within the industry.

British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (BVCA): Established in 1983, BVCA is the trade association for the private equity and venture capital industry in the United Kingdom. It provides research, policy advocacy, and networking opportunities for its members.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

CVCA has established several strategic partnerships to enhance its offerings:

Ivey Academy: Collaborated to launch the Canadian Private Capital Investment School (CPCIS), providing education tailored to venture capital and private equity professionals.

Institute of Corporate Directors: Partnered to develop the Private Capital Governance Program, aiming to improve governance practices within the industry.

Soul of Canada: Worked together to commemorate CVCA's 50th anniversary, highlighting the association's history and contributions to Canada's economic growth.

Operational Insights

CVCA's strategic considerations include:

Advocacy: Engaging with policymakers to ensure a favorable regulatory environment for private capital investments.

Research: Providing members with comprehensive data and insights to inform investment decisions and industry trends.

Education: Offering programs and resources to develop the skills and knowledge of industry professionals.

Networking: Organizing events and facilitating connections to foster collaboration and deal flow among members.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, CVCA aims to:

Enhance Data Analytics: Further develop CVCA Intelligence to provide more granular insights and predictive analytics for members.

Expand Educational Programs: Introduce new courses and certifications to address emerging trends and challenges in the private capital industry.

Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Continue initiatives like the Canadian Women in Private Capital Awards to recognize and support underrepresented groups within the industry.

Strengthen Advocacy Efforts: Engage more deeply with government bodies to shape policies that support the growth and sustainability of the private capital market in Canada.