Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Staircase Ventures is a venture capital firm founded to support seed-stage technology companies in Canada. Established with the mission to accelerate the development and performance of founders, the firm operates from Canada and focuses on providing tailored support mechanisms to meet the unique needs of entrepreneurs. The firm has a portfolio of 12 companies and is actively involved in the Canadian startup ecosystem.
Currently, Staircase Ventures manages assets under management (AUM) that reflect its commitment to seed-stage investments. The firm primarily targets B2B software companies that leverage technology to enhance operational efficiency. Notable milestones include the establishment of a 5-pillar Founder Development Platform, which emphasizes CEO coaching and strategic guidance for portfolio founders.
Staircase Ventures is strategically positioned to help Canadian startups scale to North American and global markets. The firm’s focus on fostering innovation and growth has made it a key player in the Canadian venture capital landscape.
Staircase Ventures primarily invests in pre-seed and seed-stage rounds, with check sizes ranging from $1 million to $2 million. The firm targets B2B software companies that utilize technology to enhance efficiency and effectiveness for their customers. Their investment strategy is geographically focused on Canadian-based companies, many of which aspire to expand into North American or global markets.
The firm emphasizes its commitment to enhancing founder performance through various support mechanisms. This includes providing strategic guidance, access to a network of industry experts, and resources that improve operational efficiency. Staircase Ventures seeks founders who demonstrate a strong vision and the ability to execute their business plans effectively.
Investment sectors include SaaS, AI, healthcare, proptech, and commerce. The firm’s focus on these sectors aligns with its goal of supporting technology-driven solutions that address real-world challenges.
Staircase Ventures has a diverse portfolio of 12 companies, each contributing to various sectors within the technology landscape. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects Staircase Ventures' commitment to investing in innovative technology solutions that enhance operational efficiency across various industries.
Janet Bannister: Managing Partner with extensive experience in venture capital and a strong track record in supporting technology startups.
Andrew Tiffin: Operating Partner who brings operational expertise and insights into scaling businesses effectively.
Jy Rivera: Executive Assistant providing administrative support to the team and ensuring smooth operations.
Mike Wessinger: Advisor and Co-Founder/Former CEO of PointClickCare, offering insights into healthcare technology.
Craig Miller: Advisor and Former CPO, CMO of Shopify, contributing expertise in e-commerce and scaling tech companies.
Ahmed Khaishgi: Advisor and Founder/Former CEO of SquareTrade, with a focus on consumer technology.
Kristen Hamilton: Advisor and Co-Founder/Former CEO of Koru, bringing experience in education technology.
Angelo Papatheodorou: Advisor and Former SVP Sales at PointClickCare, providing insights into sales strategies for tech companies.
Manoj Verma: Advisor and Co-Founder/CRO of TabaPay, with expertise in fintech.
Mike Shaver: Advisor and VP Engineering at Fastly, contributing technical expertise to portfolio companies.
David Belbeck: Advisor and Former CFO at PointClickCare, offering financial insights and guidance.
When pitching to Staircase Ventures, founders should include a clear outline of their business model, market potential, and how their technology enhances efficiency. Highlighting aspirations for scaling into larger markets can also be beneficial.
In recent months, Staircase Ventures has actively promoted its 5-pillar Founder Development Platform, which includes CEO coaching and strategic guidance for founders. This initiative highlights the firm's commitment to enhancing founder development and performance.
Staircase Ventures continues to expand its portfolio, focusing on seed-stage technology companies in Canada. The firm remains dedicated to supporting startups that leverage technology to improve operational efficiency.
As of March 2026, Staircase Ventures has successfully invested in 12 companies, reflecting its active role in the Canadian venture capital landscape.
What are Staircase Ventures' investment criteria?
Staircase Ventures primarily invests in pre-seed and seed-stage rounds, focusing on B2B software companies that leverage technology to enhance operational efficiency. The firm typically invests between $1 million and $2 million in Canadian-based companies.
How can founders apply or pitch to Staircase Ventures?
Founders can pitch to Staircase Ventures through their website's contact form. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes Staircase Ventures different from other VC firms?
Staircase Ventures emphasizes founder development through its unique 5-pillar Founder Development Platform, which includes CEO coaching and strategic guidance tailored to the needs of portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of Staircase Ventures' investments?
The firm focuses on Canadian-based companies, particularly those aiming to expand into North American and global markets.
What is Staircase Ventures' post-investment involvement like?
Staircase Ventures provides ongoing support to its portfolio companies through strategic guidance, access to a network of industry experts, and resources that enhance operational efficiency.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Staircase Ventures typically invests between $1 million and $2 million in each portfolio company.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.