About Us

CELS is a not for profit association supporting the advancement of innovative Canadian Life Science businesses in the San Francisco Bay Area and Silicon Valley through the power of Community and Connections.

Why CELS?

Canadian life science startups face significant challenges in securing funding within one of the world's most competitive and progressive investment environments: Silicon Valley. To thrive in the Bay Area, Canadian entrepreneurs must adeptly navigate and adapt to its unique landscape. Success here hinges on three essential pillars:

Community

Join a vibrant network of Canadian life science entrepreneurs and industry experts for collaborative growth and support.

Connections

Create meaningful relationships with investors, mentors, and industry leaders to unlock new opportunities and partnerships.

Capital

Gain access to essential funding sources and investor networks to accelerate your startup’s growth and success.

Leadership Team

  • Richard Ayllon

    Co-Founder & Sr. Advisor Due Diligence, K2X

  • Veronica Cai

    Founding Member, F-Suite

  • Joanne Fadeyko

    CEO, Connection Silicon Valley

  • Angèle Maki

    Chief Business Officer, Hummingbird Bioscience

  • Hatim Chraibi

    CEO, SPIRE Advisory

  • Cedric Bisson

    Partner, Teralys Capital

  • Orchid Jahanshahi

    CEO / Co-Founder, ThinkrBelle

  • Sigrun Watson

    Chief Strategy Officer, ThinkrBelle