Navigating Funding Opportunities

Friday, March 28, 2025 from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm

• In-person event
• 2020, Nicol, Carleton University
• 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6

In today’s uncertain global market, securing investment requires a strategic approach that aligns with investor priorities and economic realities. While the funding landscape has become more challenging, startups in cleantech, healthtech, biotech, technology and non-technology sectors that demonstrate strong financial fundamentals, efficiency-driven solutions, and a clear path to revenue generation can still attract capital. Investors are increasingly focused on risk mitigation, commercialization potential, and scalable impact, favoring pragmatic innovations over moonshot technologies reliant on policy shifts. This presentation will explore key strategies for navigating funding opportunities, building resilient investment cases, and aligning with the evolving priorities of investors to drive sustainable growth in volatile markets.

Presenter: Maria De la Puente

Ms. De la Puente brings over 20 years of experience in capital markets across Canada and Latin America, specializing in venture capital, investment banking, corporate and commercial banking, corporate and project finance, investor relations, and financial advisory services. Currently a Managing Partner at Capital Bridge Advisors, Executive in Residence at Foresight Canada and Advisor at Invest Ottawa, she has supported cleantech, health tech and tech startups in raising capital and executing complex financial transactions.

Prior to these roles, Ms. De la Puente worked as a business development advisor for Comercia Consulting, where she helped companies enhance international business strategies. She also served as Head of the Andean Region for EMX Capital Strategies, LLC, where she leveraged her strong relationships in Peru and international markets to source investment opportunities and conduct M&As and leverage buyouts.

Her earlier career includes significant experience in corporate banking with institutions like Citibank, Sudameris Banca Commeciale Italiana Group, Roche Securities, KPMG LLP, RBC Royal Bank of Canada, and ATB Financial in Canada. Maria Alejandra further developed her expertise in project finance and corporate finance management roles at SN Power and Transportadora de Gas del Perú. She also played a pivotal role in forming the Investor Relations units at Alicorp and Petroperú (both publicly listed companies), positioning both companies prominently in the international investment community.

Ms. De la Puente holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Lima and an MBA from the University of Alberta, with a major in Finance. Her extensive career has given her unique insights into venture capital, investor relations, financial structuring, corporate underwriting, M&As, and long-term debt financing, along with building strong relationships with global investors and financial institutions.