What does it mean for Canada to truly control its economic destiny? Where have we fallen behind, and what would it take to rebuild national competitiveness in a world order that is changing in real time?

In this episode of Forthlane Features, Vanessa Hui and Rob Vanderhooft sit down with John Ruffolo, Founder and Managing Partner of Maverix Private Equity and a leading Canadian voice shaping the national conversation around innovation, capital formation, and economic policy. Together, they unpack the urgent issue of economic sovereignty.

Drawing on decades spent helping build Canada’s venture ecosystem, John explains why governments must move from neutrality to intentionality, why entrepreneurs need to lead, and why Canadian capital must be mobilized toward domestic growth.

John makes the case that Canada must rebuild its innovation engine—quickly. He outlines the critical sectors where Canada must lead and calls on entrepreneurs and capital allocators to build boldly.

This is a powerful conversation about vision, action, and national ambition.

WHAT TO LISTEN FOR

:47 What does "economic sovereignty" really mean in a Canadian context?

4:40 What are the low-hanging fruits Canada can act on today?

12:12 What are the key sectors where Canada must lead?

14:23 What can entrepreneurs and business builders actually do to create change?

25:09 What lessons can be learned from Shopify’s global success story?

GUEST: John Ruffolo, Founder and Managing Partner of Maverix Private Equity

Maverix Website | LinkedIn | X | Substack

CONNECT WITH ROB VANDERHOOFT, PRESIDENT & CO-CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER, FORTHLANE PARTNERS

Website | LinkedIn

CONNECT WITH VANESSA HUI, SENIOR CLIENT ADVISOR, FORTHLANE PARTNERS

Website | LinkedIn

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Views expressed are those of the speakers and should not be relied upon for investment decisions.