On the TechTO stage ×1
First seen on the TechTO stage in 2021. Every talk is searchable — ask the archive about Mike ↗
In their words
We started Rewind in June of 2015 and I worked full time during the day, evenings and weekends on Rewind for 18 months before we went full time.
I think you can build a pretty substantial business with a full-time salary before you raise money, and I think you should be waiting as long as possible before raising.
Having a co-founder pushes you. You don't have to put in equal hours, but you do feel pressure — good pressure — to contribute back.
Around the web ×2
Quick answers
Who is Mike Potter?
Mike Potter is the co-founder and CEO of Rewind, an Ottawa company that provides backup and recovery for SaaS and cloud data. He founded it with CTO James Ciesielski in June 2015.
How long did Mike Potter keep his day job while building Rewind?
Eighteen months. He told the TechTO Together stage in February 2021 that he worked days at his job and evenings and weekends on Rewind from June 2015 until February 2017.
Is Mike Potter still CEO of Rewind?
Yes. When H.I.G. Growth Partners took a majority stake in Rewind in July 2026, Potter remained CEO and he and Ciesielski remained major shareholders.