Women Venture Forward™ Voir cette page en français We’re excited to announce the Women Venture Forward™ program, modeled after the highly transformative Canadian Private Capital Investment School (CPCIS) program, has expanded to include a third cohort. This initiative offers an opportunity to gain sector-specific knowledge and establish significant industry connections while increasing the involvement and representation of women in Venture Capital. Key Information Application Deadline: November 1, 2024 Notification of Acceptance: By December 1, 2024 Program Cohort: Cohort 3: January 26 – January 31, 2025 The Women Venture Forward™ program will take place in person in Toronto at Ivey’s Donald K. Johnson Centre. Investment Details The program, valued at $10,000 CAD, is offered at no cost to qualifying participants, thanks to funding from the Women’s Entrepreneurship Strategy managed by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. Program Overview Under the Inclusive Women Venture Capital Initiative (IWVCI), in partnership with Ivey Academy, the Women Venture Forward™ program aligns with the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES) objectives. Participants will receive sector-specific knowledge from experienced industry practitioners, enhancing their positioning in the VC ecosystem. Selection Process The CVCA has established a nomination committee to review the applicants and oversee the selection process. The committee will make final decisions based on an application that encompasses a mix of professional qualifications, personal attributes, and the applicant’s potential to transition into a career in venture capital. The Judgement Criteria The selection committee will assess applications based on the following criteria: Professional Experience: WVF is designed for candidates currently employed in or have experience in adjacent industries but seeking to transition into private capital. Ideal candidates may have work experience in finance, consulting, or significant startup operational experience. While an understanding of venture capital is an asset, it is not mandatory. Leadership Potential: Demonstrated leadership capabilities in professional or community settings. Ability to inspire and lead change towards gender equality in the VC sector. Networking and Community Engagement: Active engagement in professional networks and community organizations. Willingness to participate in mentorship opportunities, both as a mentor and mentee. References and Recommendations: Strong recommendations from industry professionals, academics, or community leaders attesting to the candidate’s suitability for the program. Personal Statement: A compelling personal statement outlining the applicant’s career goals, why they are interested in the program, and how they plan to contribute to the VC sector post-program. Availability: Availability to attend the program in-person during the specified dates and willingness to actively engage in all program activities. Cultivating Canadian VC Careers & Advancing the Ecosystem The CPCIS program is a key player in delivering essential knowledge for navigating the private capital investment landscape, featuring insights from Canada’s leading industry experts. It has set the stage for the Women Venture Forward™ program, which will not only maintain the rich educational content but also tailor the course material and guest speakers to resonate with the unique journeys and experiences of the participants. Through a curated curriculum, the Women Venture Forward™ program aims to provide a more relatable and empowering learning environment, ensuring the teachings are both relevant and inspiring for every participant. Interested in the Women Venture Forward™ Program? Are you or do you know women who could benefit from this new initiative? Explore more about the program, share within your network, and stay tuned for the next application cycle. APPLY NOW Appliquez en français The application process closes on November 1, 2024. Interested in the Existing CPCIS Program? The next CPCIS program will take place in person from March 17 – March 21, 2025. This program offers valuable insights and industry knowledge, with a 25% discount on program fees for CVCA members. Learn more here.