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Sam Chan VP of Programs
Hi! I'm Sam

I'm an entrepreneur, super connector, and ecosystem builder. I've spent the last 10 years working with startups who are obsessed with solving problems. I am infatuated with facilitating the right connections to the right people at the right time. Ironically, Ieft-handed.

Professional Experience
Launch Academy
VP of Programs
02/2020 – presentVancouver, Canada
  • •Chief strategist and designer of the Maple and Heli Programs, which have helped over 200 founders from 40 different countries expand and build their startups in Canada.
  • •Represent Launch as a mentor and thought leader, with international workshops, panels, and speaking engagements about entrepreneurship and technology.
  • •Responsible for growing the programs division within Launch Academy from 0 to a team of 5, including management of all programs, operations and marketing efforts.
  • •Strategize marketing efforts to increase global brand awareness for Launch Academy and its members. Aided in helping over 3000 entrepreneurs raise over $2.5B over the last 12 years.
  • •Evaluate and assess thousands of founders and their needs, offering program support to 500+ applicants.
    • Head of Programs
    09/2017 – 02/2020Vancouver, Canada
  • •Designed and managed all programming content for startup founders across multiple programs, including creating weekly scheduling, selecting appropriate speakers, and connecting mentors with appropriate founders.
  • •Explored new partnerships and opportunities pertaining to helping Launch Academy's mandate of growing the Vancouver Tech ecosystem.
  • •Delivered programming content such as providing webinars, moderating panels, fireside chats, and tactical workshops for startup founders.
  • •Designed a unique community-led selection process for intake of Launch's programs, resulting in the most transparent intake process across all startup visa designated entities.
  • •Oversaw marketing, operations, and programming of all in-house programs within Launch Academy.
    • Program Manager
    01/2015 – 09/2017Vancouver, Canada
  • •Managed the Lean Entrepreneur Startup Course through working with instructors on program delivery and growth strategies.
  • •Managed operations and logistics of all founder programs within Launch Academy, including vetting and intake of new members.
  • •Executed marketing efforts to increase brand awareness and membership.
    • CHIKIN Technologies Inc, Founder
    01/2022 – present | Remote
  • •Manage portfolio of Web3 assets, including non-fungible tokens, crypto tokens, and digital art.
  • •Advisor to Web3 projects for launch strategy and long term value creation.
  • •Investor in art, collectibles, and sneakers.
    • Wireless Industry Partnership, Marketing Program Manager
    11/2011 – 12/2014 | Remote
  • •Created and managed developer events, hackathons, contests, and other activities.
  • •Consulted clients on effective developer outreach. Managed WIP's branding and online brand initiatives.

    • Examples of Clients Supported:

    Samsung, Intel, Nokia, Microsoft, NBC, Sears, Orange, Qualcomm, and Novartis.

    BlackBerry, Alliance Operations Coordinator
    05/2009 – 12/2009Waterloo, Canada
  • •Helped relaunch a B2B developer network portal of over 1700 partners, with automated process integration and more efficient customer support.
  • •Managed relationships of development partners on handheld devices and managed multiple program benefits such as the Free Smartphone Program and Smartphone Loaner Program.

    • Education
    Bachelor of Arts, Simon Fraser University
    2005 – 2011 | Burnaby, Canada

    School of Communication