Norm Francis

Overview

Norm Francis is a Canadian angel investor and former CEO of Pivotal Corporation, specializing in technology investments. He co-founded Basic Software Group (BSG) in the late 1970s, which developed ACCPAC and Simply Accounting, leading to its acquisition by Computer Associates in 1985. In 1991, he co-founded PenMagic, which later became Pivotal Corporation, a global provider of customer relationship management (CRM) and eBusiness solutions. Under his leadership as Chairman and CEO from 1994 to 2001, Pivotal grew rapidly and was recognized as the fastest-growing technology company in Canada and one of the top ten fastest-growing companies in North America by Deloitte. After retiring from active business in 2001, Francis became an active angel investor and mentor to early-stage technology companies. He has been involved in various philanthropic activities, including supporting Social Venture Partners Vancouver and contributing to hydrocephalus clinics and research initiatives at BC Children’s Hospital and Vancouver General Hospital. He has also been a lecturer and student mentor at the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University. Francis's notable achievements include being named BC Technology Industry Person of the Year in 1999 and Software Entrepreneur of the Year in the Pacific region by Ernst and Young in 2001. In 2016, he was inducted into the Business Laureates of BC Hall of Fame.

Investment Focus

• Proven track record in technology sector
• Scalable business model
• Strong management team
• Innovative product or service
• Clear exit strategy

Portfolio Companies