Entrepreneurs-in-Residence

At Simon Fraser University, Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIRs) are committed leaders with a proven track record of company creation, equity financing, and developing effective go-to-market strategies. The EIR Program provides a structure for connecting senior, serial entrepreneurs with SFU researchers and their innovations for the purpose of increasing the number and quality of spin-off companies.

See a list of our current EIRs>>


“The EIR gets a front row seat on things going on in the university. This includes access to students and researchers who are working on cutting edge concepts in the technology industry.”
– Michael Volker, IO Director

What Does an EIR do?

EIRs spend an annual average of 2 days/month with SFU Faculty and Student Entrepreneurs. Examples of EIR activities:
  • Meets with faculty, staff or students who have a developed business plan
  • Speaks at events – as class speakers; student club events, faculty meetings
  • Visits with researchers in the labs, and/or attending demos and presentations
  • Works with the IO to develop commercialization strategies for new technology disclosures
  • Works with prospective co-founding researchers, staff or students on the development of new ventures
  • Works with entrepreneurs to develop a capital plan (raising equity financing) for their new venture

Why Work with an EIR?

  • Receive mentorship - ongoing advice and business guidance
  • Create a sound business plan and execute it
  • Become linked to key players in your market (including investors)
  • Mature your company so it can flourish in the competitive marketplace
  • Spin-off your company – launch your dream into reality

“I am here because I know that SFU is a goldmine of entrepreneurial talent. Ideas and expertise which require fuel - in the form of experience and networks - to make them take off. That’s where I can help.”
– Phil Holland, SFU EIR

Contact

For queries on working with an EIR, or to be considered for an EIR position, contact Bob de Wit, Program Director, at rdewit@alumni.sfu.ca, or contact your IO Technology Manager for more information.