2026 Agenda

Vancouver-based FinTech startup Grow Technologies, which offered white labeled digital banking solutions to Canadian banks, credit unions and other financial services providers, was acquired by Alberta’s ATB Financial in 2019. In this session, you’ll hear Kevin’s behind-the-scenes learnings on what worked, what didn’t and what Kevin would do differently if he went through an acquisition again.

Whether you want to be ready for a knock on the door or embark on an acquisition strategy, it takes time (and sometimes years) to check all the boxes. Early and measured preparation is key throughout all phases of the process – from strategy to integration. Operating efficiently, professionalizing processes, limiting vulnerabilities around IP, and source code and accounting records are just some things to consider. This session will showcase the most comprehensive, essential must-dos to get M&A ready.

Why attend this session?

• Get the roadmap and understand the exact steps required to plan for a sell-side acquisition successfully.
• Learn how to maximize your company’s valuation even if you have no plan to exit.
• See where most companies make mistakes and get the tools to avoid these pitfalls.

Acquiring a company is one thing. Effectively integrating the company is another.

What happens after the deal has crossed the finish line? Furthermore, what is post-merger integration, and how to get it right?

Mergers and acquisitions revolve around a plethora of moving parts. Suddenly, two companies and additional stakeholders need to work and communicate fairly and seamlessly. And getting it right heavily influences your bottom line. Companies that deliver integration will achieve growth of 6-12% higher than those that don’t.

In this session, you’ll learn the importance of M&A integration, process and best practices. You’ll learn the challenges of integrating products, companies, teams and cultures (and how to overcome them).

Despite market conditions, 2022 was Canada’s second-highest year on record for venture capital investment; however, after years of explosive startup valuations, the bubble has burst. Is this a relatively temporary setback or the start of a new era of VC caution? This session will look at how investors and acquirers are valuing acquisition targets and how the market slowdown, rising inflation and a tightened monetary environment are impacting the investment landscape.