Arlene Dickinson

Arlene Dickinson is a visionary entrepreneur, renowned venture capitalist, and one of CBC’s preeminent “Dragons”. A self-made success story, Dickinson has over 35 years of experience launching, operating, and managing businesses, growing them from early-stage startups to multi-billion-dollar corporations. She is highly sought after for her keen sense of strategy and business savvy, while her unwavering commitment to excellence, passion for innovation, and deep dedication to her community has made her a true Canadian icon.

Dickinson is the founder and general partner of District Ventures Capital, a venture capital fund that invests in innovative companies in the food and beverage and health and wellness sectors. Under her leadership, they have become a leading force in the industry, with a portfolio of ground-breaking companies transforming the way we live and eat.

Dickinson is also the co-managing partner of Believeco:Partners, an independent Canadian-based owner, operator, and builder of the foremost marketing, communications, and engagement agencies in North America. It was her vision that brought this platform to life resulting in the creation of a powerhouse marketing consolidator.

Over the years, Dickinson’s leadership and entrepreneurial prowess have earned her numerous awards and accolades. She has been inducted into the Southern Alberta Business Hall of Fame and the Marketing Hall of Legends, recognized as one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100, and honoured with the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee and Platinum Jubilee medals. Dickinson also served as an honorary captain of the royal Canadian Navy for over 10 years.

Beyond her business ventures, Dickinson is a sought-after speaker, three-time bestselling author, and philanthropist. She has starred on CBC’s Dragons’ Den for over 15 seasons and is known as “the funder”.