Jonathan Shaanan from Circle K Ventures

Jonathan Shaanan from Circle K Ventures

Author: Evan McCann April 8, 2025 Duration: 37:04

Jonathan Shaanan is the Managing Director of Circle K Ventures.


Established in 2020, Circle K Ventures invests in startup companies that are developing and deploying solutions that enhance the experience in our stores while providing team members with the tools and resources that free them up to focus on our guests.


Takeaways

- From Banking to Venture Capital: A Journey

- The Birth of Circle K Ventures

- Navigating Corporate Venture Capital (CVC)

- Strategic vs. Financial Returns in CVC

- Innovations Shaping Retail: Technology and Trends

- Global Perspectives: Investing Beyond Borders

- Post-Investment Value: Building Relationships

- Due Diligence in a Real-World Context

- Launching and Testing Technology In-Store

- The Future of Corporate Venture Capital in Canada


Chapters

00:00 From Banking to Venture Capital: A Journey

02:46 The Birth of Circle K Ventures

06:05 Navigating Corporate Venture Capital

08:52 Strategic vs. Financial Returns in Venture

11:47 Innovations Shaping Retail: Technology and Trends

18:01 Global Perspectives: Investing Beyond Borders

24:00 Post-Investment Value: Building Relationships

30:02 Due Diligence in a Real-World Context

34:04 The Future of Corporate Venture Capital in Canada


Keywords

venture capital, corporate venture, Circle K Ventures, investment strategy, fintech, retail technology, startup ecosystem, innovation, entrepreneurship, investment banking


Evan McCann sits down with the people shaping Canada's business landscape, moving past the polished success stories to get into the real work that happens behind the scenes. The Hard Part with Evan McCann is built on conversations with founders, investors, and leaders who have navigated unique challenges, focusing on the pivotal decisions and often overlooked struggles that define a venture. This podcast explores the specific strategies and personal playbooks that have driven impact, offering a rare look at the operational truths of building something significant. While the spotlight frequently falls on innovators elsewhere, these episodes are dedicated to the Canadian visionaries whose work is redefining global entrepreneurship from here at home. You'll hear candid reflections on risk, resilience, and the moments that tested their conviction, providing not just inspiration but tangible insight into the mechanics of leadership and growth. Each discussion aims to unpack the nuance of achievement, making it an essential listen for anyone curious about the substance behind the headlines in the Canadian business world.
Author: Language: en-ca Episodes: 100

The Hard Part with Evan McCann
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