About the IAF
Launched in 2008, MaRS Investment Accelerator Fund (IAF) has grown into one of Canada’s most active early-stage venture capital funds. With a deep commitment to Ontario’s innovation ecosystem, MaRS IAF is a multi-sector fund, providing the capital, mentorship and networks needed to build global transformative companies.
About the Position
As an Investment Director at IAF, you’ll be relentless deal hunter at the forefront of early-stage startup investing in Ontario. You’ll lead deals from first interaction to closing and beyond. Working closely with founders, co-investors and ecosystem partners, you’ll identify exceptional companies, shape investment theses and help portfolio companies scale. This is a hands-on investing role for a self-starter who is deeply passionate about supporting founders as they build the next generation of world-class companies.
Key Responsibilities
Deal Sourcing & Execution
Proactively source high-potential pre-seed and seed-stage startups via founder networks, warm referrals, accelerators and thesis-driven outreach.
Own the full investment lifecycle from initial sourcing and diligence to deal structuring, negotiation, and close.
Build investment conviction through in-depth analysis, including market research and sizing, financial modelling, and cap table analysis. Prepare investment memos to support decision making
Portfolio Support and Value Creation
Guide founders on capital strategy, hiring, go-to-market, and growth planning, from pre-seed to Series A readiness.
Unlock growth opportunities for portfolio companies by sourcing strategic leads, facilitating ecosystem introductions, and connecting founders with customers, partners and follow-on investors.
Monitor portfolio performance through structured reporting and direct engagement, offering founder-centric support and guidance.
Ecosystem Engagement
Build and nurture a network of founders, operators, investors and domain specialists to source deal flow and deepen diligence insights.
Act as an ambassador for IAF across the startup ecosystem, including speaking at industry events, mentoring in accelerators, participating in panels and leading community-building efforts.
Develop and maintain long-term relationships that generate proprietary opportunities, reinforce IAF’s reputation as a value-added investor, and position the fund as a go-to partner for early-stage founders.
Qualifications
Minimum bachelor's degree
Bachelor’s degree + professional designation (MBA, PEng, CBV, CFA, CPA, etc.) an asset
8+ years of related work experience
Investment experience with preference given to experience in assessing early-stage technology companies
Strong business development and collaboration skills (investment syndicates)
Experience with corporate governance and legal structures and negotiations
Operational experience working in a knowledge-economy company
Experience with early-stage companies strongly preferred
Self-starter mindset with a strong sense of initiative
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Personal integrity and professionalism
Reputation within the entrepreneurial community in Ontario an asset
Applications will close at 5pm EDT on July 31, 2025.
Applicants must be legally eligible to work in Canada and reside in Ontario.
Compensation: Competitive base salary, up to a 15% discretionary incentive, extended healthcare benefits, lifestyle spending account, GRRSP matching, and paid time-off.
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