The program

Not a traditional lecture series.

The program is designed as a multi-module, curated peer learning experience where participants will challenge their thinking, work through real-world case studies, learn from experienced VC investors, and build relationships with peers across the venture capital community. Each session will close with a short networking opportunity.

The series will be led by two experienced VCs, David Nault and Michelle Scarborough, with additional guest faculty and facilitators. Four sessions will be held from September 2026 to March 2027, culminating at the VCAA Ski Conference March 4, 2027.

At a glance
Who it’s for
Associate to Principal level
Format
Four sessions, September 2026 – March 2027
Where
Osler Calgary Office, concluding at Château Lake Louise
Cohort
Limited and curated — by application
Investment (Pilot Year 2026 Only)
No cost for members · $1,000 for non-members
Applications are open for the 2026–27 VC Academy cohort — apply now →
Pilot program · 2026–27
VC Academy

Practical perspectives. Real cases. Better investments.

The VC Academy is a pilot program designed for VC professionals at the Associate to Principal level.

The faculty

Led by two experienced VCs.

David Nault
David Nault
General Partner, Luge Capital

David is the Co-Founder and General Partner of Luge Capital, a fintech-focused venture capital firm with $180M under management. Prior to Luge, David was an investor with Inovia Capital, President of Callio Technologies, and head of Business Development and Marketing at Pivotal Payments (now Nuvei, NASDAQ: NVEI).

Michelle Scarborough
Michelle Scarborough
Venture Capital Investor & Entrepreneur

Michelle Scarborough is a venture capital investor and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience building, scaling, and investing in high-growth companies. Over her career, she has managed more than $1B in assets and mobilized over $2B into technology enterprises, including founding two of the world’s first and largest funds dedicated exclusively to women-led ventures. Her investment track record includes leading major financing rounds into companies like Waabi (alongside Uber, Khosla Ventures, and Porsche) and notable exits such as Beanworks (acquired by Quadient) and Bitstew Systems (acquired by GE; CVCA Deal of the Year). Michelle serves on numerous private and non-profit boards, is a Top 40 Under 40, holds the ICD designation and is a Kauffman Fellow. She is also a Venture Partner at Lucid Ventures, shaping the next generation of Canadian innovators.

Participation

A limited, curated cohort.

The series will be offered to a limited, curated cohort. Participants will apply to be part of the program and will be selected based on experience level, fit with the intended audience, and their interest in contributing to a strong peer learning environment.

Participants will be expected to attend all four sessions, actively participate in discussions and case studies, and adhere to the VCAA Peer Workshop Code of Conduct.

Apply

Apply for the 2026–27 cohort.

Places are limited. Tell us about your experience and what you want from the program, and our team will be in touch about selection.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The program is included for VCAA members; $1,000 for non-members.

Questions about the program? Email hello@vcaa.ca.

Session dates
September 30INSIDE VC
November 18FIND THE SIGNAL
February 4MAKE THE BET
March 4BUILD YOUR VC CAREER

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Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We will be in touch about selection.