“My learning experiences at Concordia provided opportunities to create structure. I learned a lot about how to structure my business; how to structure code; and how to structure an opportunity or a deal.”
Earlier in his career, Ashik Karim experienced the challenges of being an entrepreneur looking for venture capital. This involved trying to juggle growing his business while also securing investors.
To help the next generation of entrepreneurs, he created UpCapital. He calls it an “incubator-plus”, and it serves to connect start-ups in the clean and green sector with the support they need — financially and beyond. The Vancouver-based company offers a variety of services potential clients can tap into as they require.
“There are a lot of companies out there that need help. I’ve really learned the ‘secret sauce’ to building and exiting companies through public markets or mergers, and acquisitions,” says Karim.
Lessons learned in venture capital
“There is no such thing as free money. I want to help these entrepreneurs and businesses in Canada find smart money and the right partners.”
Where to find the best employees
“Canada has some of the best talent. I’m very proud to see that I no longer have to go to New York or Silicon Valley to find that level of entrepreneurial spirit.”
Challenges during university
“While studying computer science at Concordia full time, I was working as a consultant developing software for International Space Station components, as well as working on another e-commerce platform.
“It was always a balancing act. However, since I was getting practical experience, I was able to answer a lot of questions one would typically have to pick up from theoretical reading.”
What Concordia provided
“My learning experiences at Concordia provided opportunities to create structure. I learned a lot about how to structure my business; how to structure code; and how to structure an opportunity or a deal.”
Vision of the future
“In the last six years I have pivoted my focus to ‘green tech’ and ‘clean tech.’ I am interested in influencing and being a catalyst partner in helping to grow companies.
“I measure my involvement based on the footprint that a project will leave on the planet for my kids.”