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Scott Dodds didn’t follow the traditional route into tech and he wouldn’t have it any other way. Today, as Director of External Relations at ventureLAB, he plays a key role in connecting policymakers, partners, and tech leaders to strengthen Canada’s innovation economy. But his journey to the tech ecosystem began in the heart of government.
Before joining ventureLAB, Scott spent time working in a minister's office, advising the minister on government technology and digital government files, including technology procurement, responsible AI, data management, and digital infrastructure.
It was while navigating these complex challenges that Scott first encountered organizations like ventureLAB. “I was learning about the network from the outside,” he says. “When I thought about leaving the government, it was clear to me that an organization like ventureLAB would be the next step. It was a chance to bring together my passions for tech, policy, and impact.”
Scott joined ventureLAB just over a year ago. What drew him in was the organization’s dual role helping companies scale cutting-edge hardware while advocating nationally on the most important tech issues of our time. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the direct impact our work has on founders. Even if I’m not working with them one-on-one, I see how the academic and government partners and relationships we build help move the needle in tangible ways.”
Scott’s career foundation is rooted in a passion for political science. Born in the U.S., he studied political science at three institutions, earning his BA at Tufts University, a Master’s from the University of Chicago, and a PhD at the University of Toronto, with plans to become a professor in political science. But after deciding not to pursue an academic career, an unexpected opportunity in a minister’s office drew him back into politics and eventually, into public service leadership.
“The academic experience definitely shaped me,” Scott shares. “It helps when working with post-secondary institutions, and the political science lens still informs how I think about systems and collaboration.”
Today, he brings that perspective to ventureLAB, advocating for Canada’s hardtech ecosystem and helping build the relationships that drive it forward. “I’ve learned that people do their best work when they feel ownership. I try to delegate and collaborate as much as possible, everyone should feel like a partner.”
If there’s one piece of advice Scott wishes he’d gotten earlier from Sophia, it’s this: “Friendraising comes before fundraising. The best thing you can do is build relationships well before you ever need them.”
Outside of work, Scott is a dedicated dad to two young kids, ages 2 and 5. “My daughter’s in her crafting stage and it's a full-time hobby on its own.” He also loves to read everything from political philosophy to sci-fi and literature. One book he recommends to anyone trying to understand the semiconductor landscape? Chip Wars, a political deep-dive into the global chip race.
And yes he still makes time to game. Every year, he heads to a cottage with friends to dive into tabletop classics like Dungeons and Dragons. “We’re all dads now, so it’s harder to schedule, but it’s a fun way to stay connected.”
“The culture at ventureLAB is incredibly open. Everyone has a voice, and there’s a real willingness to collaborate and try new things. I’m excited to keep building, advocating, and being part of something bigger than any one person.”
