Toronto, a city pulsating with entrepreneurial energy, has served as the launchpad for numerous groundbreaking ventures.1 At the heart of this dynamic ecosystem stands Cole Diamond, a serial entrepreneur whose vision has consistently propelled innovation and attracted significant investment across diverse sectors.2 From co-founding Canada’s leading cryptocurrency broker-dealer, Coinsquare, to establishing the nation’s first digital asset custodian, Tetra Trust, and playing a pivotal role in the transformative Ghost Kitchens International, Diamond’s impact on Toronto’s business landscape is undeniable. His strategic investments in early-stage startups further solidify his commitment to fostering innovation and growth within the city.3

Diamond’s vision for Toronto is one where technological advancement and strategic investment converge to create impactful solutions. His co-founding of Coinsquare exemplifies this perfectly. Recognizing the disruptive potential of cryptocurrency early on, Diamond envisioned a secure and accessible platform for Canadians to participate in this emerging asset class. By establishing Coinsquare in Toronto, he not only built a successful business but also contributed significantly to the city’s burgeoning reputation as a hub for fintech innovation.4 His focus on regulatory compliance and user-centric design attracted substantial investment and positioned Coinsquare as a leader in the Canadian cryptocurrency market, demonstrating his ability to translate a futuristic vision into a tangible and thriving enterprise within the Toronto context.

While Coinsquare cemented his status as a key figure in the digital asset space, Diamond’s vision extended beyond a single industry. His co-founding of Tetra Trust showcases a keen understanding of the evolving needs of the cryptocurrency market. Recognizing the necessity for secure and regulated custody solutions for institutional investors, Diamond spearheaded the creation of Canada’s first digital asset custodian. Although headquartered elsewhere in Canada, the impetus for Tetra Trust’s creation and its role in facilitating institutional investment in digital assets speaks to Diamond's overarching vision for a mature and robust digital asset ecosystem within Canada, a vision that undoubtedly incorporates Toronto as a key financial center. This move highlights his ability to identify crucial infrastructure needs and build companies that address them, fostering greater trust and participation in nascent markets.

Diamond’s influence on Toronto’s innovation landscape is further illustrated by his instrumental role in Ghost Kitchens International. Recognizing the seismic shift in consumer behavior towards food delivery, he saw an opportunity to revolutionize the restaurant industry’s operational model. By championing the concept of delivery-only kitchens, strategically located to optimize speed and efficiency, Ghost Kitchens International reshaped how restaurants in Toronto and beyond could reach their customers. This venture demonstrates Diamond’s capacity to identify and capitalize on broader societal trends, applying innovative business models to transform traditional industries and attract significant investment in the process. His involvement underscores a vision for a more agile and responsive food service sector, leveraging technology to meet evolving consumer demands.

Beyond his direct entrepreneurial ventures, Diamond’s commitment to fostering innovation in Toronto is evident in his strategic investments in numerous early-stage startups. His backing of companies like RoketEV, KEEP, and BIG Digital highlights a keen eye for identifying promising technologies and talented teams. These investments are more than just financial contributions; they represent a belief in the potential of Toronto’s burgeoning tech scene and a willingness to support the next generation of innovators. By providing both capital and mentorship, Diamond actively contributes to the growth and dynamism of the city’s startup ecosystem, fostering a culture of innovation and attracting further investment into Toronto. His vision extends beyond his own companies to encompass the broader success and development of the city’s entrepreneurial landscape.

As Cole Diamond prepares to launch his new company, Trade In, from Toronto, the anticipation surrounding this venture speaks volumes about his track record of identifying opportunities and driving innovation. While specific details remain under wraps, the move signals his continued commitment to building and investing within the Toronto ecosystem. Trade In represents the next chapter in Diamond’s Toronto vision, one that likely involves leveraging his extensive experience to disrupt yet another established industry, further solidifying his role as a key driver of innovation and investment within the city.

In conclusion, Cole Diamond’s journey is inextricably linked to the evolution of Toronto’s innovation and investment landscape. His visionary leadership in establishing and scaling companies like Coinsquare and his pivotal role in ventures like Ghost Kitchens International, coupled with his strategic investments in promising startups, demonstrate a deep commitment to the city’s entrepreneurial growth. Diamond’s “Toronto vision” is one characterized by a relentless pursuit of innovation, a keen understanding of emerging market needs, and a strategic approach to investment that not only builds successful businesses but also strengthens Toronto’s position as a leading hub for technological advancement and entrepreneurial success. His continued presence and upcoming ventures promise to further shape the city’s economic future.