The new program launches with a curriculum designed for those who serve VC-backed boards and is expected to expand to cover PE-backed boards

TORONTO – April 27, 2022 - The Canadian Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (CVCA) and the Institute for Corporate Directors (ICD) are pleased to announce today a new partnership to deliver a governance program uniquely designed for Canadian private capital investors. The first cohort of the program will be specially designed to equip the boards of venture capital-backed companies with tools to navigate the nuances of corporate governance while guiding Canadian VC-backed organizations through modern challenges.

The Private Capital Governance Program is expected to expand to include the private equity (PE) asset class and focus on providing PE investors with the tools and resources to maintain a competitive edge and make a meaningful impact on the boards that they serve. An announcement about the PE cohort is expected in late 2022.

The first venture capital cohort of the program will launch on June 8, 2022, and will be delivered in a blended format combining self-directed online learning, live intensive discussions, case analyses and small group meetings. The program draws upon academic research and current governance practices, with a focus on providing participants with practical skills and strategies to enable significant difference in the governance of portfolio companies.

The Private Capital Governance Program (Venture Capital Cohort) will be of benefit to venture capital investors who currently serve as board directors. The program will refresh participants’ understanding of best practices and provide insights about recent corporate governance developments. The program will also be of significant benefit to independent directors seeking to improve their performance as they serve on the boards of venture-backed organizations.

"Becoming an effective director has become vital in an era of disruption and governance challenges," said Kim Furlong, Chief Executive Officer, CVCA. "We are delighted to join with ICD to provide private capital investors with this educational program to strengthen corporate leadership in these fast-changing times.”

“The ICD is pleased to bring its expertise in Corporate Governance education to directors engaged in a vital Canadian growth sector, through our partnership with the CVCA,” said Rahul K. Bhardwaj, LL.B, ICD.D, President and CEO, Institute of Corporate Directors.

Upon completion of the Private Capital Governance Program (Venture Capital Cohort), program participants will receive a unique digital and paper Certificate of Completion from the Canadian Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (CVCA) and the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD). This document will showcase participant achievements and commitment to board governance.

“An effective, engaged, board of directors is a key success factor for any corporation,” said Dr. Michael Robinson, CFA, ICD.D, Academic Director, Private Capital Governance Program. “Developing such a board in a private equity situation is complicated by several factors that have the potential to introduce decision-making biases, especially when making critical corporate decisions. This program will introduce participants to established best practices, and allow them to share insights, that identify and overcome issues so that their boards become truly value enhancing.”

About the ICD

The Institute of Corporate Directors is a not-for-profit, member-based association representing Canadian directors and boards across the for-profit, not-for-profit and Crown sectors. The ICD has more than 15,000 members and 11 Chapters across Canada and fosters the sharing of knowledge and wisdom through education, professional development programs and services, and thought leadership. ICD members across all sectors of the economy oversee well in excess of $1 trillion in market capitalization and institutions that impact the lives of virtually every Canadian. Visit https://www.icd.ca/

About the CVCA

Our vision

A thriving Canadian economy driven by private capital

Our Mission

CVCA’s mission is to help our members fuel the economy of the future by growing the businesses of today. We do this by supporting and connecting a vibrant private capital industry with advocacy, research, and education.

CVCA is also the nation’s ultimate resource for data on Canadian private capital investments. Please visit: http://www.cvca.ca

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