Equity Cubed Analysis: Reflections on Supporting Early-Stage Impact Ventures in Canada

From what we’ve observed, standardized programs often fall short in meeting the needs of diverse founders and innovations. The “square peg in a round hole”, one-size-fits-all thinking leaves much to be desired. Additionally, traditional models rarely provide access to the right resources at the right time, limiting ventures’ ability to navigate complex, multi-faceted challenges that require specialized expertise. 

Through its research, Equity Cubed found it is important to offer practical, personalized and culturally relevant support with a focus on building trust and fostering community, particularly through fractional services and mentorship. It is essential that the pool of expert advisors surrounding impact start-ups be both professionally and culturally diverse, with a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by impact-driven founders, especially those from equity-deserving groups. 

 By addressing the expertise and capacity gaps that often hinder early-stage growth in impact ventures and by providing bespoke, context-specific training, Equity Cubed’s proposed Impact Venture Studio approach offers a more effective pathway to successful commercialization than traditional models.