On the TechTO stage ×1
First seen on the TechTO stage in 2023. Every talk is searchable — ask the archive about Prem ↗
In their words
We have a focus on funds less than 50 million, a software focus, and usually there's some sort of Canadian connection.
Because of our position in the ecosystem, we're able to quickly understand a new investor's reputation and how they work with companies, how they're able to generate deal flow, where do they add value, how are they winning allocations, and what is their trajectory.
I was always drawn into the problem of why is there a different availability of capital here versus there. And then the University of Waterloo reached out to organize an angel network associated with the university.
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Quick answers
What does Prem Kalevar do?
He is a venture partner at N49P, the Toronto pre-seed firm, focused on technology for the physical world and reindustrialization. He returned to N49P in 2026 after building Inovia Capital's Discovery Fund, having first been an entrepreneur in residence there.
What did he look for in a fund manager?
Managers under $50 million with a software focus and a Canadian connection. He told TechTO the screen was whether the companies in their portfolio were ones Inovia would want to compete to lead later, judged from the manager's track record rather than mature fund metrics.
How did he get into venture?
Through the angel side. After an early-stage YC startup took him to Silicon Valley and back, he was struck by how differently capital was available in each place, and organised the University of Waterloo's alumni angel network before working with pre-seed funds.