Paniz Kimiaei

Paniz is the Founder Community Manager at ventureLAB, where she leads founder recruitment across portfolios and programs while shaping and delivering founder community initiatives that support early-stage technology companies. In this role, she designs recruitment strategies, oversees founder intake and onboarding, and leads community programming and events that foster connection, collaboration, and growth across the innovation ecosystem.

‍

Paniz has spent over three years working in Canada’s innovation ecosystem, previously supporting the delivery and growth of ventureLAB’s Accelerated Growth Program and contributing to founder support initiatives across programming, advisory services, and non-dilutive funding pathways, including the Entrepreneurship & Innovation Fund (EIF).

‍

In addition to her work with founders, Paniz is a Youth Mentor with Technovation Girls, where she supports high school girls in developing technology-based solutions and building confidence in STEM and entrepreneurship. She is deeply passionate about creating inclusive pathways into innovation and believes strong ecosystems are built by investing in both today’s founders and tomorrow’s leaders.

‍

Known for her approachable, thoughtful, and community-first leadership style, Paniz is always eager to connect with founders, partners, and aspiring entrepreneurs navigating their journey through the innovation ecosystem.