Jim Balsillie: Technology Visionary and Innovation Strategist Coming to Inventures 2025 

Inventures 2025 is proud to announce Jim Balsillie, retired Chairman and co-founder of Research In Motion (BlackBerry), as a keynote speaker at this year’s conference. His addition to our speaker lineup brings decades of experience in building global technology enterprises and shaping innovation policy.

Canadian Tech Pioneer 

Balsillie helped transform a small Waterloo startup into BlackBerry, a global technology leader that revolutionized mobile communications. Under his co-leadership, BlackBerry became one of Canada’s most valuable companies and a worldwide symbol of innovation. His experience scaling a tech company from local operation to global powerhouse offers invaluable insights for entrepreneurs at every stage.

Beyond Corporate Leadership

Since stepping away from BlackBerry, Balsillie has focused on strengthening Canada’s innovation ecosystem. As founder and Chair of the Council of Canadian Innovators, he works directly with high-growth technology companies to address policy challenges affecting their global competitiveness. His perspective on intellectual property strategy, talent development, and international market access represents critical knowledge for companies seeking sustainable growth.

Policy and Innovation Intersect 

What makes Balsillie’s contribution to Inventures particularly valuable is his deep understanding of how public policy and business strategy intersect. His advocacy for intentional innovation policies that support domestic companies has challenged conventional thinking and initiated important conversations about building sustainable technology businesses in the global economy.

Accolades and Recognition

Balsillie’s influence extends well beyond the business world. Named to Time Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People” and three times to Barron’s “World’s Top CEOs,” his perspective comes with significant credibility. His philanthropic work through the Centre for International Governance Innovation and the Balsillie School of International Affairs further demonstrates his commitment to addressing complex global challenges.

A Unique Opportunity 

For Inventures attendees, this represents a rare opportunity to learn directly from someone who has navigated the full journey from startup to global enterprise and beyond. Balsillie’s candid assessments and strategic thinking provide valuable lessons for entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers alike.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights from one of Canada’s most accomplished technology leaders. Register for Inventures 2025 today to secure your spot at what promises to be one of the conference’s most impactful sessions. Are You IN?