March 1, 2026
4th Annual Ardency Case Competition
Ivey Venture Capital Club Case Competition
BMO Auditorium, Western University
View Schedule
Welcome to Ardency 2026
Get excited for Western's premier venture capital case competition, where ambitious delegates tackle real-world investment challenges alongside industry leaders. Over two dynamic days, you'll analyze deals, pitch strategies, and network with top VCs and entrepreneurs.
This year's competition brings together the brightest minds in student venture capital, featuring expert keynotes, intensive case rounds, and unparalleled networking opportunities. Whether you're passionate about early-stage investing or building the next unicorn, Ardency is your launchpad.
1
Day of Competition
6+
Firm Sponsors
$1500
Prize Pool
Day 1
Case Release & Online Workshop (Optional)
February 28, 2026 • 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM • Virtual Event (Zoom)
Note: Case materials will be released at 12:00 PM on February 28th, students will work asynchronously with deliverables due before 8am on March 1st.
01
What to Expect
Overview of the competition format and what to prepare
02
How to Case Comp
Walkthrough of case competition strategies, analysis frameworks, and presentation tips
03
Intro to VC
Introduction to venture capital fundamentals, investment thesis development, and industry insights
Day 2
Competition Day Schedule
March 1, 2026 • 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM • Ivey Business School
1
8:00 AM - Case Due
Submit Deck before 8am
2
10:30 AM - Registration
Check-in and Breakfast
3
11:00 AM - Opening Ceremonies
Official Welcome from the IVCC Team
4
11:15 AM - Keynote
Alicia Opatowski - Northleaf Capital Partners
5
12:00 PM - Panel Q&A
Interactive Discussion with Panelists
6
12:30 PM - Networking
Connect with Industry Professionals
7
1:15 PM - Lunch
Lunch Provided
8
1:45 PM - Practice Period
Preparation Time Before Competition
9
2:15 PM - Preliminary Round
Team Presentation
10
3:30 PM - Final Round
Finalist Teams Present Proposals
11
4:30 PM -Closing Remarks
Award Ceremony and Closing Remarks
What to Expect: Competition Format
Case Distribution
Receive a venture capital case on February 28th at 12:00 PM, due 8am March 1st. Case involves real-world investment scenarios, financial data, and market analysis.
Preparation Time
Dedicated practice period to refine your analysis, build your presentation, and rehearse your delivery with your team.
Presentation Format
10-minute pitch followed by 5 minutes of Q&A with experienced venture capital professionals and industry experts.
Judging Criteria
Evaluated on analytical rigor, strategic thinking, presentation quality, teamwork, and ability to defend your investment thesis.
A Message From Our Presidents
Dear Ardency Delegates,
Welcome to Ardency 2026! We are thrilled to host you for what promises to be an unforgettable experience in venture capital. This competition is a unique platform to hone your skills, expand your network, and engage with the forefront of innovation. We believe in your potential to shape the future of investing.
Thank you for bringing your talent and passion to Ardency. We wish you the best of luck and look forward to seeing the impactful strategies you develop!
Warmly,
Shalin Ratti and Jaime Eckler
Ready to Make Your Mark?
Ardency 2026 is more than a competition - it's your gateway to the venture capital community. You'll leave with sharper analytical skills, industry connections, and memories that define your business school experience.
The stage is set. The cases are ready. The only question is: are you?
See you at BMO Auditorium on March 1st. Let's make this unforgettable.
Presented by the Ivey Venture Capital Club • Follow us @iveyventurecapital for updates
Final Reminders
Venue
BMO Auditorium
Ivey Business School
Western University
London, Ontario
Meals
Light Breakfast, Refreshments and Lunch Provided
Dress Code
Business Professional
Suits recommended for presentations. Dress to impress the judges and sponsors.
Questions?
Contact IVCC:
Instagram: @iveyventurecapital
Email: [email protected]
Our Proud Sponsors
Ardency is made possible through the generous support of leading venture capital firms, financial institutions, and innovation partners. Thank you to our sponsors for supporting Ardency and helping shape the next generation of investment leaders.
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