On the TechTO stage ×1
First seen on the TechTO stage in 2021. Every talk is searchable — ask the archive about Michelle ↗
In their words
We look for founders who people may not see in the traditional way, but who have a great business idea and who can, most importantly, go out and get people to join them on that journey.
Where she excels is on recruiting talent and building a really culture-first organization, and having some people who have many, many options take that leap of faith with her.
I like to think that things have, or are, evolving from where they were in 2016, 2017, in large part because of role models like Stephany.
More from TechTO ×1
Around the web ×2
Quick answers
What is Michelle McBane known for?
Founding StandUp Ventures, the Toronto seed fund she launched in 2017 on the premise that backing women-founded and women-led Canadian companies is an untapped advantage rather than a concession. She had previously been senior investment director at MaRS Discovery District.
What does she look for in a founder?
Deep domain expertise plus the pull to recruit. She told TechTO that StandUp backs founders others may not see in the traditional way, and that the trait she rates highest is whether a founder can get talented people with many options to join them.
How big is StandUp Ventures?
Two funds. Fund I closed at $21 million and Fund II opened with a $30 million initial close, and by mid-2024 the firm had backed 26 women-led companies, including ODAIA and Arteria AI.