Aaron Keay is a Canadian entrepreneur, investor, and former professional athlete with a diverse track record across consumer products, wellness, and venture capital. He is the founder of Klutch Financial, a family office and investment firm focused on early-stage companies in emerging sectors, and the founder of Kommunity Fitness, a boutique fitness brand redefining group workouts through immersive tech and high-energy experiences.
Born and raised in North Delta, British Columbia, Aaron excelled in both soccer and basketball, ultimately representing Canada in international soccer and playing professionally in Europe and for the Vancouver Whitecaps. While competing at a high level, he earned dual degrees in Business and Human Kinetics from the University of British Columbia, where he was named CIAU Student-Athlete of the Year in 1997.
Aaron began his post-athletic career as a personal trainer before moving into corporate finance. He became the founding CEO of OrganiGram, one of Canada’s first publicly listed cannabis companies, and has since led or supported ventures that have raised over $5 billion in public and private markets. He is also a key advisor and investor in RX3 Growth Partners, a consumer brand fund co-founded by NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Outside of business, Aaron is a passionate supporter of youth and health initiatives, including KidsSafe, Music Heals, and the Canadian Cancer Society. He splits his time between Vancouver and Palm Desert, remains active in amateur sports and fitness competitions, and is a dedicated father of two.
Q&A with Aaron Keay: What Success Really Means
How do you define success today?
Success for me isn’t just one thing. It’s not just business or money. It’s being consistent with who I am—showing up for my family, my team, my health. If I’m making progress in those areas, I feel successful.
Has your definition of success changed over time?
Absolutely. In my 20s, it was all about proving myself—winning, earning, building. I think a lot of athletes carry that mindset into business. But over time, I’ve realized success is more about balance and longevity. Winning at work means nothing if you’re losing at home or in your health.
What’s one habit or mindset that’s been critical to your success?
Discipline. I learned that through sports. Show up early. Do the work, even when it’s boring. Consistency always beats intensity in the long run. It’s the same in business and in life.
What’s a failure you’ve learned from?
I’ve been early to some markets, including cannabis. Sometimes too early. Timing is everything. I learned to listen more—to the market, to people who see what I don’t. Ego can be expensive.
How do you balance ambition with family life?
I calendar it. Literally. I block time for my kids’ games, dinners, even downtime. If it’s not scheduled, it gets swallowed up by the hustle. My kids are growing fast—I don’t want to miss that.
Do you think anyone can be successful?
Yes, but not overnight. You have to be honest with yourself about what you’re willing to sacrifice and for how long. Success comes with costs—time, comfort, even relationships sometimes. But if you stay grounded and keep your values clear, it’s possible.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
“Play the long game.” In sports, in business, in relationships. Don’t chase quick wins. Think about how the move you’re making today affects your future five or ten years down the line.
What does legacy mean to you?
Legacy is how people feel when your name comes up. Did I help? Did I add value? Was I generous with what I had—knowledge, time, resources? That’s what I care about. Not just being successful, but significant.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting their journey, what would it be?
Don’t be in such a rush to figure it all out. Learn by doing. Try things. Fail fast, but fail smart. And don’t let anyone else define what success should look like for you.