John Stokes
Co-Founder & Managing Partner
Real Ventures
Speaker Bio
John Stokes, originally from the UK and a proud Montréal resident since 2007, is the co-founder and Managing Partner of Real Ventures, a key player in Canada's startup ecosystem. In 2011, he launched FounderFuel, Canada’s top startup accelerator, and has been named one of Quebec’s most influential people by L’actualité and one of the "24 Quebecers We Love" by the Montreal Gazette. John’s passion for fostering entrepreneurship also led him to co-found the OSMO Foundation, transforming Notman House and St Margaret’s Hospital into thriving hubs for innovation.
In 2023, he was recognized as the Montreal startup ecosystem’s Community Champion of the Decade.
A lifelong advocate for entrepreneurship, John has served on the boards of major Canadian venture capital associations and earned his Institute of Corporate Directors designation in 2019. Prior to venture capital, he launched and scaled numerous technology businesses across Africa and Asia Pacific and also found time to play semi-professional soccer. Now a citizen of the UK, New Zealand, and Canada, John lives in Montréal with his wife and teenage daughter, always inspired by the vision of a regenerative world.
Company Profile
Real Ventures stands at the forefront of Canada's technology investment landscape, dedicated to identifying and nurturing the most promising startups shaping the future. Founded on the belief that transformative ideas can emerge from any corner of the country, Real Ventures has become a vital force in catalyzing innovation within the Canadian tech ecosystem.
With a diverse portfolio spanning various industries, Real Ventures actively seeks out visionary entrepreneurs and provides not just capital but also mentorship and strategic guidance. The firm's commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive startup environment is evident in its support for early-stage companies, helping them navigate the challenges of growth and scalability.
Real Ventures has played a pivotal role in propelling Canada onto the global tech stage. By fueling groundbreaking ideas and facilitating connections between entrepreneurs and investors, the firm has established itself as a key player in the vibrant Canadian startup community. Whether it's through direct investments, partnerships, or initiatives aimed at advancing the tech ecosystem, Real Ventures continues to be a driving force behind the innovation that defines Canada's technological landscape.
How Can We Move to an H2Plus Type of Technology
The Three Horizon Model
John Stokes
's Events
In this discussion, we will explore the factors both philosophically and practically that are arising around the speed and development of AI technology.