Jon Levy

Angel Investor Ontario, Canada ·Founded 1984

Overview

Jon Levy is an angel investor and co-founder of Mastermind Toys, a Canadian specialty toy retailer based in Toronto, Ontario. He co-founded the company in 1984 with his brother, Andy Levy, starting with a 300-square-foot store that sold educational software for home computers. Over the years, Mastermind Toys expanded its offerings to include a wide range of educational and fun toys, books, games, puzzles, and software, becoming one of Canada's largest independent specialty toy retailers. Under Jon Levy's leadership as CEO, the company experienced significant growth, increasing its store count from 11 locations in the Greater Toronto Area to 66 stores across Canada. In 2010, Birch Hill Equity Partners made an undisclosed investment in Mastermind Toys, becoming a majority stakeholder and facilitating the company's national expansion. Despite the investment, Jon and Andy Levy remained substantially invested in the company. In November 2023, Mastermind Toys filed for creditor protection, citing tough competition, a difficult economic climate, and impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. In December 2023, Unity Acquisitions Inc., owned by Canadian retail pioneers Joe Mimran, Frank Rocchetti, and David Lui, announced the acquisition of 48 of the company's stores, with plans to close 18 locations starting in 2024. Following the departure of co-founder Andy Levy, Jon Levy continued to serve as CEO until 2019, after which Sarah Jordan assumed the role. As of May 2026, Jon Levy remains active in the investment community, focusing on angel investments in various sectors, including retail, technology, and consumer goods. Jon Levy's investment philosophy centers on supporting innovative and growth-oriented companies that align with his expertise in retail and consumer products. His strategic vision and hands-on approach have been instrumental in the success and expansion of Mastermind Toys, and he continues to leverage his experience to mentor and invest in emerging businesses across Canada.

Investment Focus

  • Innovative business models
  • Scalable growth potential
  • Experienced management teams
  • Alignment with personal values and expertise

Portfolio Companies

Mastermind Toys

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Frequently asked questions about Jon Levy

What sectors does Jon Levy invest in?

Jon Levy invests in Technology, Consumer Goods, Retail, Software, Education and E-commerce, and is based in Ontario, Canada. Jon Levy is listed as a angel investor in the ConnectSafely investor database.

What stage does Jon Levy invest at?

Jon Levy backs companies at Pre-Seed, Seed, Early Stage, Series A, Series B and Growth, writing cheques of 100K - 5M.

Which regions does Jon Levy invest in?

Jon Levy invests across Canada.

What companies has Jon Levy invested in?

Jon Levy's portfolio includes Mastermind Toys.

Last updated · Source: ConnectSafely investor database