Andrea Richardson

As the Director of Special Projects, Andrea works to strengthen the DMZ’s relationships with existing partners and build new collaboration opportunities. She also works with the DMZ’s global programs to strengthen connections between Toronto and the world.

Andrea is passionate about bringing diverse groups together to support innovators solving important problems. Andrea started her career working with SMEs and not-for-profits as a CPA, CA. Most recently, she spent 5 years at Nesta, the UK’s innovation foundation, where she designed, implemented and advised international accelerator and investment programs to help entrepreneurs build, launch, and scale impactful startups.

Andrea has developed relationships with private, public and not-for-profit partners globally (including major banks, foundations and governments) and worked with startups across various industries (including fintech, future of work, horticulture and more).

Get to know Andrea Richardson

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A spy...or the winner of Survivor.

Have you ever gotten starstruck?
At a UK Canadian embassy event I was asked to quickly speak with some "senior representatives" - turns out these "senior reps" were Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

How do you relax?
With a long run or a long book.

Favourite food?
Whatever cereal is on offer.

If you could learn how to do anything, what would it be?
To understand and speak new languages really, really quickly.