We diligently prepare companies to access capital.

Darren has over 20 years of business development, strategy, financial and investment experience in a variety of industries and technologies, with a focus on early-stage growth companies. Prior to starting Tailwind in 2018, he worked for a prominent investment bank, where he gained significant knowledge and connections that are now being utilized with Tailwind’s client companies. He holds a Chartered Accountant and a Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Darren finds happiness on two wheels, and while being a professional cyclist is no longer in the cards, he does hope to complete many bike adventures across the world with his two daughters.

Spencer brings extensive background in banking, corporate development, and investor relations to provide value to Tailwind’s portfolio companies, with a strong foundation in financial analysis, deal structuring, and strategic planning. Before coming to Tailwind, Spencer spearheaded corporate development and investor relations initiatives for a TSX-listed company and worked at a reputable Western Canadian bank in both leveraged debt finance and investment banking roles. Holding a Chartered Business Valuator designation, Spencer provides a distinct perspective on business valuation for Tailwind's companies. Outside of work, Spencer finds himself hitting the links, tending the hockey net, or organizing games of spikeball with friends at Prince's Island Park.

Jenny has over 15 years of marketing, strategy, leadership, and product development experience across a number of sectors. At Tailwind, Jenny drives marketing and growth strategy, and leads the development of our digital platform. Prior to joining Tailwind in 2024, she led strategic marketing and communications for the Research & Innovation enterprise at a top five Canadian university, where she was responsible for elevating research impacts and innovation outcomes through marketing, storytelling, events, and engagement with industry, community, and government. She delivered digital tools to enable researchers to connect with study participants, and she worked closely with researchers and research-driven startups to enable commercialization.

Andrea takes care of our growing Tailwind crew, ensuring that Tailwind is the best place to work. When not supporting our thriving crew, Andrea is a dedicated Mom, managing a busy household of two active teenage daughters and two dogs with her husband, Darren. Andrea is clearly the person who keeps it all together, for which Darren is forever grateful. Andrea loves home design, cooking and spending time in sunny vacation spots with her family.

With a background in finance and a strong interest in agriculture and experiencing cultures around the world, Harry brings a passionate outlook on new technology and emerging sectors. Harry is responsible for working closely with management teams, using his personal and technical skillset to instil a comprehensive level of preparation in companies before seeking external capital. Harry envisions himself as an extravagant world traveller, having sampled some of the finest foods and beverages across Europe before joining Tailwind. Harry has big goals of shooting under par and owning an F1 team in the near future.

Raj has experience in venture capital and venture development, across various sectors and stages. Prior to joining Tailwind, he invested in startups at Western Canada’s first university-based venture capital fund and advised scaleups at the Canadian office of a prominent global venture development organization. Raj leverages his background, analytical skills, and passion for the intersection of business and technology to help Tailwind's clients reduce risk and raise capital. In his spare time, he enjoys travelling, watching films, reading, and following NBA basketball.

Starting her career in marketing, Leyla is experienced in market research, storytelling, and translating actionable insights from data. Supplementary to her role at Tailwind, she is enrolled in the University of Calgary's MBA program, specializing in finance. As an associate, Leyla applies strategic thinking and creative problem-solving to help ventures mitigate risks in raising capital and growth. She is passionate about assisting companies to commercialize and scale, and in her free time enjoys long-distance running and tuning to her favorite Bravo shows.

Laju leverages her background in business development, marketing, business analysis, and case consulting to drive key insights at Tailwind. She helps the team understand market trends, assess competitive landscapes, and refine client strategies. Her analytical skills help to identify opportunities and inform strategic decisions. In her spare time, Laju enjoys reading, films, travelling, and the arts.

With over 12 years of diverse experience in accountancy, advisory, risk management, and controls across a wide range of industries, Lisa brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Before joining Tailwind, she played a pivotal role in guiding multiple startups through their exciting growth phases. Her journey also includes valuable experience in accounting firms and corporate internal audit, equipping her with a robust skill set. When she’s not crunching numbers or strategizing for success, Lisa indulges her creative side through ceramic arts and creative writing, making her a well-rounded professional with a passion for both precision and artistry.