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Technology

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Dentons

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Dentons is well-versed in technology and fintech matters, advising on cross-border transactions and issues for domestic and overseas clients. The firm has a Canadian start-up program which enables new and emerging businesses to work with the firm on a range of legal issues. The firm utilizes its global ties with investors to aid Canadian start-ups and entrepreneurs with scaling globally and acquisitions or going public. The team is spearheaded by Matt Wanford, who specializes in technology and commercial law. He is based in Ottawa and assists clients with outsourcing, procurement processes and technology transactions. Co-head Michael G. Beairsto leads the team from Toronto and is well-versed in software licensing and development as well as technology acquisitions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘In our experience, Dentons’ technology practice brings together the best of both worlds: a truly global reach with a strong understanding of local markets; both of which we leveraged as a technology company. The team works across everything from M&A and licensing to regulatory strategy and IP in tech, with experience spanning fintech, IoT, smart cities, and more.'

  • ‘I’ve had the privilege of working with Chase Irwin, he really shines by combining deep start-up and venture capital expertise with hands‑on, practical guidance for founders and high‑growth companies. Whether it’s raising capital, navigating exits, or advising on M&A and private placements, Chase delivers with precision and foresight, and his leadership role amplifies our confidence in his strategic vision. What sets Sean Del Giallo apart is his genuine connection with tech entrepreneurs, grounded in his own creative background, and his ability to guide them through everything from governance to financing to exits.’

  • ‘The team is really kind and collaborative. They will go out of their way to provide a good client experience including by doing presentations and client lunches.’

  • ‘Lisa Ford specifically stands out as someone who provides very clear and practical advice is responsive as well as very personable. I enjoy our interactions.’

  • ‘Matt Wanford is a seasoned partner with several years of experience in technology related commercial matters. He brings a vast amount of institutional knowledge to the table, which makes him a trusted source of assistance for technology arrangements, whether negotiating new deals or interpreting existing complex agreements.'

  • ‘The team has been great to work with - very knowledgeable and quick to respond. They work hard to find solutions to complex issues in order to clear roadblocks to deal progression.’

  • ‘Andrea Johnson and Julien Bourgeois have been great partners to us across multiple deals over the years and they've been wonderful to work worth. Both are extremely responsive and have delivered for us on some very complex engagements with tight timelines.’

Key clients

  • Amazon
  • StackAdapt
  • Hamilton Thorne
  • Docebo
  • Motorola Solutions (MSI)
  • Wal-Mart Canada
  • ATB Financial
  • Mattr Corp.
  • Volante Software
  • BDC
  • Capital
  • Builders VC Fund II
  • Basecamp Equity Partners
  • Lytica

Work highlights

Advised Amazon on all its Canadian activities across multiple sectors and business units.
Advised StackAdapt on its continued growth strategy and changes to the investment landscape.
Represented Hamilton Thorne in the assisted reproductive technology space, on its going private transaction with Astorg.

Practice head

Matt Wanford; Michael G. Beairsto

Other key lawyers

Chase Irwin; Sean Del Giallo; Lisa Ford; Andrea Johnson; Julien Bourgeois