At Global Startups Lessons Learned event, the community brought together three powerful voices from the funding ecosystem: Graphite Ventures (VC), an experienced angel investor, and a representative from BDC (government funding). The room was filled with founders and investors seeking clarity in a tough market.

Their message? This is one of the best times to invest in startups—especially those led by resilient, capital-efficient founders.

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What VCs Are Saying: Efficiency Is the New Edge

Jude Sacramentas from Graphite Ventures shared that while LP participation in VC firms is at a five-year low, their investment pace hasn’t slowed:

“We’re still investing in 40+ startups a year. What we’re seeing now are founders who can do a lot with very little. That’s the kind of discipline you want to invest in.”

With money tighter than it was in 2020–2021, today’s startups are laser-focused on capital efficiency, traction, and smart use of tools. For investors, that means lower valuations, higher quality deals, and better long-term upside.

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Angel Investors Are Championing Early-Stage Founders

Angel investor ZJ Hadley offered real-world advice to first-time founders—and future investors. Her key point? Investing is about connection and confidence.

She shared insider tactics:

• Build a list of potential investors and pitch the “low-stakes” ones first to refine your approach.
• Don’t pitch from a place of desperation—pitch like you’ve got something valuable (because you do).
• Use the “side door”: volunteer at events, attend smaller gatherings, and build real relationships.

“Angels aren’t doing you a favor—they’re investing because they believe they’ll get a return. So approach them like a partner, not a charity.”

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Government Insight: Tough Times Build Real Entrepreneurs

Jasmin Ganie-Hobbs from BDC reminded everyone that Canada remains rich in opportunity—if you know where to look.

“If you think the Canadian market is hard, try building a startup where there are no resources. What we have here is rare—and we need to appreciate and leverage it.”

Her advice to founders and investors alike: now is the time to build real skills, real businesses, and long-term success.

“If you can thrive during tough times, you’ll own the good times.”

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Final Takeaway: The Best Deals Aren’t Always Loud

The hype may be gone, but the opportunity is real. If you’re ready to invest in grit, traction, and global potential—we’re here to connect you with the startups that matter.

Book a meeting and learn more.