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AEC: What does your role with Relay entail?
Irfhan Rawji: I’m extremely engaged in firm strategy, fundraising, portfolio oversight and – most importantly – mentorship of more junior investment professionals.
I enjoy each of these elements immensely, especially
the opportunity to guide the next generation of leaders.
AEC: What are some of the unique things Relay Ventures brings to Alberta?
IR: I think our depth and breadth of North American experience brings unique value to the ecosystem. We can draw upon lessons learned over two decades to benefit the local community. Additionally, we host a plethora of ecosystem events – which act as catalysts for planned and unplanned collisions. This is something we hope contributes to the success of startups in Alberta.
AEC: What is it about Alberta’s technology sector that inspires your optimism?
IR: There is a lot to be excited about in the Alberta technology sector, but three things really stand out for me. Every year we witness growth in the number of companies started in Alberta. Next, we’re seeing more and more innovators from across Canada moving here to grow
their companies due to our growing bench of talent and availability of capital. Finally, investors from other markets are spending more time here –drawn by the growing quantum and quality of investable local companies. It’s a strong signal that our ecosystem is maturing.
AEC: And how has the ecosystem come into its own?
IR: There is substantially more interest in the sector. More and more young people, especially recent graduates, see a career in technology and innovation as an exciting and viable path for them.
Additionally, there is growing interest from others outside of our ecosystem. The Banff Venture Forum and the VCAA Ski Day have both seen continually increasing attendance, especially from those located in other parts of Canada.
AEC: What does the future hold?
IR: I expect the sector’s growth and success will continue to accelerate! We can’t unsee the benefits that a growing and thriving innovation ecosystem bring to our communities and economy.
Irfhan Rawji relay.vc
Irfhan joined Relay Ventures in 2016 as a Venture Partner. He got to know Relay’s co-founder and managing partner, John Albright, serving on the board of a startup. The two recognized that they enjoyed working together, and explored the possibility of collaborating at Relay. By 2021, Irfhan was a Managing Partner of this rapidly growing fund.
2022 2023
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