John Cassidy is a Managing Director at SVG Ventures | THRIVE who leads the firm's Canadian strategy and has invested in 17 Canadian agri-food tech companies, making him a central figure in building Canada's agri-foodtech ecosystem. He brings a CEO background from running a European fintech company through rapid growth and international expansion, and actively builds partnerships like the Zone Agtech collaboration to help regional startups expand globally rather than just providing capital.

• Deep focus on the agriculture and food technology sectors, consistently highlighting the need for innovation and increased capital in the space. Frequently discusses the intersection of different industries, such as the relationship between agriculture and energy, and actively engages with topics regarding the barriers to adoption for new technologies within the agrifood market.
• Strong commitment to the Canadian startup ecosystem, particularly within Alberta. Champions the region by promoting local accelerators and partnerships, such as work done with Alberta Innovates, and advocates for regional improvements like high-speed transit between Calgary and Edmonton to foster a tighter tech community.
• Facilitates cross-border collaboration between North American and European markets, with a specific interest in bridging Irish and Canadian business networks. Often highlights milestones in transatlantic relations, such as attending events at Ireland House in San Francisco or business breakfasts in Toronto that connect global innovators.
• Active participant in major global and regional tech conferences to network and scout trends. Regularly shares insights and enthusiasm from large-scale events like SXSW, Collision, and World Agri-Tech, emphasizing the value of in-person meetings over virtual interactions for building investor and founder relationships.
• Enthusiastic supporter of professional sports and local cultural events, which serves as a personal connection point. keen interest in hockey, cheering for teams like the Oilers and Sharks, and celebrates major regional events like the Calgary Stampede, showing an appreciation for the local atmosphere where he operates.