CANADIAN ACCELERATORS AND INCUBATORS NETWORK (CAIN)

THE ORGANIZATION

The Canadian Accelerators and Incubators Network (CAIN) exists to support Canada’s innovation ecosystem by connecting, supporting, and amplifying the work of accelerators, incubators, and economic development organizations. Through data platforms, peer networks, programming, and partnerships, CAIN helps members unlock insights, enhance impact, and build Canada’s innovation capacity.

For more information on CAIN, please visit www.cainetwork.ca.

THE OPPORTUNITY

CAIN (Canadian Accelerators & Incubators Network) is seeking a visionary, entrepreneurial, and mission-driven Executive Director or Chief Executive Officer (ED/CEO) to guide the organization through its next chapter of national impact and growth. This newly created leadership role reports to an engaged Board of Directors and will oversee strategy execution, business development, membership engagement, and operational excellence—all within a fully remote and lean operating environment.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader with deep knowledge of Canada’s innovation ecosystem, a passion for economic development, and the drive to elevate CAIN’s presence, value, and sustainability. This is a rare opportunity to lead a high-potential organization positioned at the intersection of AI, venture capital, and emerging technologies

RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Board Relations

• Lead the refinement and execution of CAIN’s multi-year strategic and operational plan in collaboration with the Board.
• Represent CAIN at national forums, policy discussions, and in key innovation ecosystems.
• Meet regularly with the Board Chair; coordinate quarterly board meetings and annual planning sessions.
• Prepare board packages, performance dashboards, and financial and impact reports.
• Maintain consistent and transparent communication with the Board regarding risk, progress, and priorities.

Business Development & Revenue Generation

• Drive CAIN’s financial sustainability by identifying and securing diversified revenue streams including:
• Government funding (e.g., ISED program renewal)
• Strategic partnerships
• Public-private collaborations
• Service fees from the data platform
• Sponsorships and grants
• Lead the design and monetization of new offerings that bring value to CAIN’s members and broader community.
• Engage actively with the VC, AI, and economic development communities to position CAIN as a strategic partner.

Operational Oversight

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of CAIN with a small team that includes a bookkeeper, part-time communications lead, and contracted consultants (e.g., data analyst).
• Manage financial administration, budget oversight, HR for part-time staff/interns, and general systems coordination.
• Ensure timely contract delivery, invoicing, and compliance with funder and partner expectations.
• Lead and support major initiatives such as the BAI PMF and regional pilot programs.
• Ensure data tools and dashboards are accurate, functional, and provide real-time value to members.

Membership Engagement & Value Delivery

• Meaningfully engage with CAIN’s national member base (172 organizations) to understand their needs and deliver tangible value.
• Develop new products, services, and programming based on aggregate member feedback and emerging trends.
• Expand membership, including outreach to underrepresented groups and non-traditional innovation hubs.
• Drive consistent communication, education, and engagement across the network.

Community Leadership & Ecosystem Presence

• Be the external face of CAIN, attending and speaking at key industry events (e.g., StartupFest, Inventures, Web Summit).
• Source relevant speakers, partners, and content to lead CAIN-hosted in-person and virtual events.
• Cultivate long-term partnerships with government agencies (e.g., ISED), funders, accelerators, incubators, and industry.

FIRST YEAR – MEASURES OF SUCCESS

• Affirm and activate a refined strategic plan and corresponding 2-year operational roadmap.
• Deliver revenue growth through both traditional and innovative funding streams.
• Renew existing government funding (e.g., ISED) and establish new strategic partnerships.
• Launch or scale member-facing data services, events, and engagement programming.
• Increase member retention and satisfaction, measured through feedback and participation.
• Ensure accurate reporting, clean financials, and improved operational efficiency.

THE INDIVIDUAL

Given the pivotal role this individual will be expected to play in achieving the strategic objectives of the company and in supporting the success of the organization, it is essential that the successful candidate possess the following core competencies, experience, and attributes:

Education

• Post-secondary education in business, technology, innovation, or a related field.

Experience

• 5+ years of leadership experience in the innovation ecosystem (accelerators, incubators, startups, or non-profits).
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, partnership development, and revenue generation.
• Familiarity with key players in Canada’s innovation space (e.g., BDC, NRC, ISED, VC firms, academic institutions).
• Strong background in governance, financial oversight, and working with a Board of Directors.
• Experience leading small, distributed teams in a lean, remote work environment.

Competencies and Knowledge

• Strategic thinker with the ability to execute tactically.
• High emotional intelligence; able to build relationships quickly and authentically.
• Entrepreneurial, resourceful, and resilient.
• Excellent communicator—comfortable with public speaking, stakeholder management, and difficult conversations.
• Deep understanding of operational and reputational risk, financial oversight, and KPI tracking.
• Community-minded with a passion for inclusive innovation and economic development.
• Gritty and adaptable; not afraid to “roll up your sleeves” in a lean setting.

Personal Profile

• Highly accountable.
• Displays ethical leadership.
• Able to respond and pivot quickly to new initiatives and business needs.
• Enjoys change and leading others through it.
• Respectful of others.
• Positive attitude and energy.
• Leads by example.
• Strategic and operational performer.
• Collaborative.
• Highly organized with good time management skills.
• Critical thinker with problem solving skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and without supervision.
• A positive attitude when faced with adversarial situations.
• Exhibits sound judgment.

COMPENSATION

An excellent compensation package awaits the successful candidate.

LOCATION

Remote

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This is a part-time role (2–3 days/week), with flexibility and the potential to grow in scope over time. Travel may be required for events and partnership development, subject to availability and strategy.

HOW TO APPLY

For the opportunity to join CAIN in the role of Executive Director please email your resume to DreamBig@profoundtalent.com referencing Position ID #ASIY-300612.

Should you have an inquiry regarding this position, please contact Max Frank at 587-200-0114 ext. 102.

For further information on ProFound Talent Inc. please visit: www.profoundtalent.com

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

ProFound Talent is a woman owned and operated business, recognized and certified by Women Business Enterprise (WBE). We pride ourselves in supporting equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives in our recruitment processes and in our work environment, where every individual feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals to which you may confidentially share your accommodation needs at time of application. We will adjust our processes to ensure you have an inclusive, fair, and respectful experience that allows you to represent yourself in your unique and most authentic way.

* We thank all applicants for your submissions, however only candidates being considered for this role will be contacted. *