Our Story
After observing the numerous challenges and expenses associated with expanding a business into new markets, we realized the value of having trusted off-shore connections for setting up a business across borders.
Intrinsic Innovations was established to help facilitate these global connections. We specialize in building and nurturing international links to facilitate the expansion of Canadian businesses into foreign markets, and to assist global businesses in entering the Canadian market, ensuring a smooth transition. Together with our partners, Intrinsic Innovations provides comprehensive insights into the nuances of conducting business across borders. This includes understanding local business operations, intellectual property rights, human resources, as well as legal and regulatory frameworks. Equally important, we help navigate the often subtle yet significant differences in business culture and etiquette between countries.
Meet the Team
Andrew Sanden, (BSc(Eng), MBA)
Co-Founder/CEO
Andrew is Co-Founder and Chairman of Intrinsic Innovations and CEO Intrinsic Venture Capital. He is passionate about technology and innovation, enabling the success of entrepreneurs, and seeking ways to grow the economies of Calgary, Alberta and Canada. His expertise includes the startup ecosystem, the energy sector, the defense communications sector, venture capital, and small-cap private equity. Andrew is a vocal advocate for economic immigration, and serves as an active member of CVCA’s international and government relations committees.
Alec Wang, (BCom, BEcon)
Co-Founder and President
Alec Wang is Co-Founder and Managing Director at Intrinsic Innovations; Co-Founder and Managing Director of Intrinsic Venture Capital, Co-Founder and Executive VP of Intrinsic Investments; and, Co-Founder and CEO of ClickDishes; notably, Alec founded food delivery platform Nomme, which was acquired by one of the largest delivery companies in North America DoorDash in 2017. Alec is passionate about international business development and giving back to the community.
Anne-Marie Wilms
Entrepreneur and Community Manager
Anne-Marie is the Entrepreneur and Community Manager at Intrinsic Innovations. With 15 years of experience in Sales and Business Development within the Oil and Gas industry, she made a successful transition into Calgary’s vibrant tech sector. Anne-Marie is known for her ability to build long-term relationships and drive organizational growth. She is passionate about giving back to the local community and thrives on making meaningful connections that support both individuals and businesses.
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Heather Herring, (BSc, MBA)
Executive in Residence and Chief Advisor
Heather is the Executive in Residence and Chief Advisor – Ecosystem at Intrinsic Innovations. Her varied career has included serving as the Executive in Residence with Zone Startups Calgary and Foresight, and extensive work in academia, private and public sector companies with a focus on cleantech.
Mark Salkeld, (MBA)
Executive in Residence and Chief Advisor – Industry
Mark is also VP of Business Development and Relationships at Energy Safety Canada and Past President and CEO of Petroleum Services Association of Canada. (now Enserva) Mark has over 40 years of industry experience, is a mentor, industry advocate for both energy and innovation and an active member of the Dean's Advisory Council with SAIT’s McPhail School of Energy.
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Yuhan Wu, (HBSc)
Executive Assistant and Full Charge Bookkeeper
Yuhan is the Executive Assistant and Full Charge Bookkeeper at Intrinsic Innovations, where she leverages her extensive background in sales, finance, and administration. Proficient in Microsoft office and a holder of a SAS Advanced Programming Global Certificate, she manages bookkeeping, supports event planning, and enhances executive operations. Yuhan’s strong track record in sales and client management, make her highly effective in demanding environments.