CCI Launches Cannector: A New Executive and Board Search Service Built for Canada’s Innovation Economy

Toronto, ON – May 15, 2025 — The Council of Canadian Innovators (CCI) today launched Cannector, a new executive and board search service designed to connect Canada’s fastest-growing firms with experienced leaders who understand the challenges and opportunities of scaling in a global market.

Cannector offers a tailored, high-touch approach to identifying board members, executive leaders, fractional talent, and advisors. Unlike traditional search firms, Cannector draws from CCI’s trusted network of operators—vetted, trained, and battle-tested through real experience building Canadian companies.

“For nearly a decade, CCI has helped innovators scale by expanding access to talent, capital, and customers,” said Benjamin Bergen, President of CCI. “With Cannector, we’re offering a solution to one of the most persistent barriers to growth—strategic leadership. This isn’t just a matchmaking tool; it’s an extension of our mission to strengthen Canada’s innovation economy.”

Built for Canadian Scale-Ups

Cannector is designed to meet the real-world needs of high-growth firms. Its curated roster includes:

• Former and current C-suite executives
• Founders-turned-advisors
• Board directors and committee chairs
• Experts in AI, cybersecurity, IP, and commercialization
• Alumni of CCI’s Innovation Governance Program (iGP), Chief of Staff Accelerator, and AI G.U.I.D.E. Program

“Companies trust CCI because they know who we work with: leaders who’ve scaled Canadian firms and know how to build,” said Patrick Searle, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at CCI. “Through Cannector, we’re offering more than resumes. We deliver warm, strategic introductions to people who can make an immediate difference.”

Three Flexible Tiers of Service

Cannector offers a range of engagement models:

1. Targeted Campaigns – Promote your role directly to CCI’s network of over 1,500 vetted innovators.
2. Shortlist Searches – Receive a custom shortlist of 10–15 qualified leaders matched to your growth goals.
3. Brokered Introductions – Get high-touch support to meet, evaluate, and engage potential candidates with speed and discretion.

Not Just a Database. A Network.

CCI represents more than 170 of Canada’s fastest-growing companies and works directly with the C-suite teams driving their success. With a proven track record of delivering award-winning executive education programs, CCI has consistently addressed the capacity gaps innovators identify. Cannector brings together alumni from these programs and senior leaders from high-growth firms across the country—forming a curated network of Canadians focused not just on short-term wins, but on building long-term economic prosperity for the country.

“What sets Cannector apart is quality, not quantity,” said Gabriella Boulos, CCI’s Director of Programs and Events. “Our roster isn’t open to anyone—it’s built from leaders we’ve worked with, trained, and trusted. These are people who understand scale, governance, and growth. And they’re ready to help Canada’s most ambitious companies go further.”

Get Started Today

If you’re looking for your next board member, fractional executive, or trusted advisor, Cannector can help. Visit www.cannector.ca to learn more or start your search.

Are You a Recruiter or Search Partner?

Cannector welcomes partnerships with recruiters, executive search firms, and talent platforms who are aligned with our mission: helping Canadian companies scale with the right leadership in place. If you’re looking to collaborate, co-design solutions, or tap into our curated network of innovation leaders, we’d love to connect.

Media Contact:

James McLeod, Director of Communications
‍jmcleod@canadianinnovators.org