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Jesse Rodgers

Jesse Rodgers

Entrepreneur, investor, community builder, and startup ecosystem architect

Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
nitter+1
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
nitter+2
Joined January 2025
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Summary

Jesse Rodgers is a prolific community builder and ecosystem architect, with a consistent focus on fostering innovation and supporting founders in the Canadian tech landscape. He has played instrumental roles in establishing key startup initiatives, including the Velocity incubator at the University of Waterloo, the Creative Destruction Lab, and more recently, Builders Club. nitter+2
With a strong entrepreneurial background, including co-founding TribeHR (acquired by NetSuite) and EIGENSPACE, Jesse combines his startup experience with investment and coaching. He advocates for a builder's mindset, emphasizing resilience, practical execution, and challenging the status quo in the startup world. communitech+1
Jesse is a thought leader and active commentator on the Canadian tech ecosystem, often sharing his insights on the challenges and opportunities for founders, particularly in the Waterloo Region. He communicates through various platforms, including his personal blog and several Substack newsletters, advocating for local talent and a supportive environment for 'builders'. whoyoucallingajesse+3

Work

Education

Writing

Builders Club is Where Ambition Meets Action

October 1, 2024

An article by Jesse Rodgers describing the Builders Club as a community and movement for ambitious individuals to create, innovate, and build, emphasizing a growth mindset and collaboration.

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Exploring the EigenSpace

April 1, 2021

An article explaining the mission and approach of EIGENSPACE as an investment company that provides coaching, funding, and support to early-stage software founders.

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Monday Club :: Just Do The Thing

A weekly Substack newsletter providing updates on events and projects in the Waterloo Region, aimed at 'builders' in the tech ecosystem.

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Build from Here

A Substack publication exploring why individuals choose to build in Waterloo or Canada, offering perspective on the Canadian tech landscape.

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Who You Calling a Jesse?

Jesse Rodgers' personal blog featuring thoughts on innovation, programming, and startups.

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Notes

JRJai Relansaid
JRJesse Rodgers
has led or co-founded startups and made a real impact in the local startup community.

Aug 8, 2025