Scott Gelbard, based in Vancouver, is an accomplished strategic consultant, entrepreneur, and Managing Partner at Peak Ventures, with over a decade of experience in international business consulting. His expertise spans the cannabis industry, where he has been a pioneer, and extends across a wide range of sectors. Scott’s consulting work focuses on assisting companies throughout Asia, North America, and Europe, helping them replicate successful American business models.
With a degree in Consumer Science, Scott combines academic knowledge with practical experience to guide business leaders through the intricacies of the American marketplace. He began his consulting career immediately after college, gaining firsthand experience through a process of trial and error. Despite facing challenges, Scott’s perseverance paid off—within five years, he grew his business to generate over $250 million in annual revenue. His success is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit, strategic thinking, and adaptability.
Scott’s ability to anticipate trends and capitalize on emerging markets has been a key factor in his accomplishments. In 2009, he entered the U.S. cannabis market in Colorado just as the industry was beginning to take shape. As one of the early adopters in this space, Scott has spent over a decade at the forefront of the cannabis sector, driving innovation and growth. His passion for developing businesses in up-and-coming industries keeps him motivated, as he thrives on the excitement of building something new from the ground up.
In addition to his work in the cannabis industry, Scott has a wealth of experience in venture capital and business consulting. He previously served as a member of Apis Ventures, a Denver-based financial firm, where he specialized in venture capital, transactional consulting, and investments in both public and private companies. This role allowed Scott to deepen his understanding of the investment process while expanding his network of high-net-worth clients and business relationships. His consulting philosophy is rooted in a genuine passion for building successful businesses and helping companies thrive in competitive markets.
Outside of his professional life, Scott is deeply committed to his lifelong passion for soccer. He has played the sport since childhood and remains actively involved as both a player and coach. Scott enjoys coaching youth soccer teams, and sharing his love for the game with the next generation. When he’s not on the soccer field, Scott stays active by skiing, participating in CrossFit workouts, and attending his sons’ hockey games. His dedication to sports, fitness, and family reflects his energetic and balanced approach to life.
Scott Gelbard’s blend of strategic insight, entrepreneurial drive, and passion for emerging markets has positioned him as a leader in his field, with a track record of success across industries and continents.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
I don’t have a typical day. Every single day is different than the one prior. I am constantly working with companies and management to strategize on growth and expansion. I am also working with funds and investors to structure financings and placements.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I create a strategy and build a road map on how best to implement and execute my ideas and strategies.
What’s one trend that excites you?
AI is the one trend that excites me. I feel like it will change the world.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Consistency.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Stay disciplined and listen to your intuition.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you.
My glass is always ¾ full as I always have an optimistic outlook.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Work out daily – it helps with your mind as much as it does physically.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
Workout, cold tub, sauna.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Stay in front of people. In this technology-driven world and with everything being virtual such as Zoom, I personally believe nothing replaces face-to-face meetings.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
One of my biggest projects i raised money on went bankrupt. Management was unable to execute as they promised and I put too much trust in their abilities. My takeaway was to put controls and measures in place and have a seat on the board for more oversight.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
No specific idea but be consistent and follow through. Don’t be afraid to fail. Failing is a key component of success.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
I don’t really use any special technology in my day-to-day business.
What is the best $100 you recently spent?
A good shot of tequila, you can’t go wrong.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast from which you’ve received much value?
Huberman Lab podcast and Gary Brecka.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
Succession – I love the business side of the story and the dynamic of the family drama. It is loosely based on Rupert Murdoch and his life.
Key learnings:
- I have never thought about questions like this in the context of business.
- It took me a little out of my comfort zone, which is always good.
- It was good to view the whole picture and how non-work-related activities can benefit your work ethic.