James DeGreef is Founder and CEO of ChatterBlock, Founder of GenoLogics (Acquired by Illumina last month), he’s setting up a school in Uganda, he just turned 40 and bungee jumped for the first time, and he’s speaking on an upcoming Experience Tectoria panel…

We think he may have the “finger-in-many-pies” syndrome, but it seems to be working for him!

James grew up in Victoria and went to the University of Victoria for Commerce and Computer Science. While he was attending UVic, he was also launching GenoLogics (again, that syndrome we spoke of).

GenoLogics was formed in 2002 with the simple goal of building a flexible and adaptable Lab Information Management System (LIMS) for the burgeoning proteomics industry. GenoLogics sold Genomics Informatics Systems to over 120 leading edge research customers including hospitals, large pharma companies, biotechs, and university genomics centres across the US and Europe. Illumina, the leader in Human Genome Sequencing, just acquired GenoLogics one month ago, making James very happy.

James is currently focused on rapidly growing his new company, ChatterBlock, and investing in local tech companies. ChatterBlock is a hyper local social networking and content site targeting the unique requirements of families and their supporting communities. It’s currently in 25 major regions across Canada and the USA. Their focus now is launching in more US cities as most of Canada is now covered (They’re working on Boston right now).

“Working with awesome people, and also seeing young people grow in their careers really inspires me,” commented James. “Most of my ChatterBlock crew take 12pm to 2pm off for lunch and hitting the gym. I like a smart and fit team – emphasizing the body and mind connection.”

James is also working with a friend to set up a school 1 hour north of Kampala, Uganda. He’s planning on travelling back there in 2016 and working on even more projects.   

But before he leaves the country again, he will be participating in next week’s Experience Tectoria event. He will be speaking on a panel called “So you want to be acquired?” on Thursday, Sept 17 at 4:30pm.

“I’m really looking forward to the Experience Tectoria event for the networking with local tech entrepreneurs, angel investors, and also the out of town venture capitalists. And, I get to share a bit about GenoLogics being acquired, as much as I can and am allowed to say.”

James is planning on doing a lot more angel investing and is excited for bringing a few “kewl” ideas to life.