Launch Academy
AcceleratorVancouver · Pre-Seed–Series A · 7 people tracked
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Investment thesis
Launch Academy operates as a tech incubator and accelerator supporting early-stage founders. Since 2012 it has incubated over 6,000 entrepreneurs from more than 100 countries, running programs such as its LaunchPad Program, Revenue Factory course, and fundraising education to help startups vet ideas, test business models, and scale. It emphasizes community, mentorship, and networking, with alumni progressing to seed and Series A stages. The organization also runs Traction Conference, a global event bringing together tech leaders to share growth and marketing advice.
Source: firm website, verified Sep 26, 2026.
Team · 7 people
from the firm's websiteAlex Chuang is an entrepreneur, designer, and growth hacker who has launched products across crowdfunding, e-commerce, SaaS, and marketplaces, sold his first startup in 2013, and mentors Vancouver entrepreneurs. He was recognized for social entrepreneurship and named among BC's Top 30 under 30.
Ray Walia is a Vancouver tech ecosystem builder who has founded and funded startups, mentored many entrepreneurs, and produced numerous events championing the city's tech sector.
Roger Patterson is a serial high-tech entrepreneur with over 17 years in software and telecom, having founded and run three high-tech companies after working at Nortel and Newbridge Networks.
Camille Bonnet, originally from France, has a background in HR in the tech industry, having worked at companies such as Ubisoft and DNEG before moving to Vancouver.
Elena Kiseleva works on social media at Launch Academy, with prior experience promoting a social business incubator and leading a content team at a US-based edtech startup.
Jean Yoon started her tech career at Launch and is also a Twitch game streamer and founder of SFU's first PC gaming club.
Sam Chan is Head of Programs at Launch Academy, overseeing program development and advising startups on go-to-market strategy. He previously consulted for Samsung, Microsoft, Intel, Qualcomm, and NBC on developer relations and ran large hackathons.
What they invest in
from 2 of 6 portfolio companiesConsumer ×1Fintech ×1Marketplaces ×1Travel & Hospitality ×1
HQs:Mexico×1Nigeria×1
Portfolio companies · 6 tracked
alumni founders can tell you what the program is really likeFlutterwave builds payments infrastructure, technology, and tools for businesses and banks to make and accept payments across Africa.
FintechLagos, NG
Adeleke Adekoya(Founder)inOlugbenga GB Agboola(Founder)inIyinoluwa Aboyeji(Managing Director)inOlugbenga Agboola(Founder)inWill Szczerbiak(Director)Joseph Saunders(Director)
Co-investorsGlynn Capital ManagementGreycroftOmidyar Network4DX VenturesAAF Management Ltd.Accelerate Africa+54 more
Local Adventures is a platform for booking outdoor adventure experiences led by passionate local guides across the Americas and Europe.
ConsumerMarketplacesTravel & Hospitality
Moisés Vera(Founder)in
Co-investorsTech Wildcatters
Other
Tracked investments with no reachable website or further public details — typically companies that wound down, renamed, or were absorbed.
BloombaseLaterSmartArmThinkific
Portfolio news
latest coverage across their companies
Flutterwave · disruptafrica.com · Jul 19, 2026
Frequently asked questions
- How many investments has Launch Academy made?
- Launch Academy has 6 tracked investments.
- What stage does Launch Academy invest at?
- Launch Academy invests at the Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A stages.
- What sectors does Launch Academy focus on?
- Launch Academy focuses on Fintech, Media & Entertainment, Sector Agnostic.
- Where is Launch Academy located?
- Launch Academy is headquartered in Vancouver, CA.
- Who does Launch Academy co-invest with?
- Launch Academy most often shares deals with B Capital Group, DCVC (Data Collective), Greycroft, among 42 tracked co-investors.
Media · Podcasts & interviews
featuring the teamCutting through health hype with AI | Ray Walia, FCPA, FCMA ...
Ray Walia, FCPA, FCMA · Ray Walia · linkedin.com
Founder Journey goes global! As Ray Walia, CEO Launch.vc ...
Launch Academy · Ray Walia · facebook.com
StartUp Canada Visa- Ray Walia, CEO, Launch Academy
Thebrandglobaltv · Ray Walia
Blockchain Interviews - Ray Walia, CEO of Launch Academy on Traction Conference
Crypto Coin Show · Ray Walia
Blockchain Interviews with Ray Walia, CEO Launch Academy
InvestmentPitch Media · Ray Walia
A Founder's Story. Creating the World’s First Laundry Robot — Joshua Rabanne, Laundrx
Launch Academy
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