Podcasts about platform calgary

In this episode, host Munir Haque welcomes Chris Doble, Director of the Venture Mentoring Service of Alberta (VMSA), to the show to talk about the mentorship that VMSA offers to entrepreneurs by assembling teams of experienced business leaders. Based on MIT's Venture Mentoring Service model, the VMSA focuses on personal leadership development rather than business operations, emphasizing mentorship through coaching rather than direct advisory. Chris Doble and Munir explore how the program was adapted for Alberta's business environment and how the approach prioritizes developing entrepreneurs as leaders.Chris highlights VMSA's rigorous mentee selection process that ensures those chosen align with their coaching philosophy. He explains that the primarily entrepreneurial and executive mentors foster open discussions that might not be possible in a formal board setting. The conversation discusses how the program, funded by Alberta Innovates, has largely grown through referrals and has helped mentees achieve business growth, leadership clarity, and in some cases, career redirection. Munir and Chris also emphasize the importance of diversity in mentorship teams and the balance between experience and personality compatibility. About Chris Doble: Chris is the program director of the VMSA, Venture Mentoring Service of Alberta, an entrepreneur mentorship program that focuses on building the leadership capacity of growth stage entrepreneurs. Based on the VMS mentorship model established at MIT, the VMSA supports entrepreneurs by surrounding them with a team of experienced business leaders who provide ongoing coaching and guidance as they scale their ventures. Prior to joining the VMSA, Chris helped out to grow the Threshold Impact Venture Mentoring Service program based out of the University of Alberta and has received mentorship and coaching training through the MIT Venture Mentoring Service Executive Immersion Program, and Roy Group's practice of coaching. Before entering the world of mentorship, Chris worked in a variety of roles within the music industry, including as a studio manager of an audio post-production studio, in artist marketing and PR, and in co-launching a mastering studio in Toronto. He has an Honors Bachelor of Arts from the University of Ottawa in Communications and Business Administration and is proud to be a Calgary born and raised citizen.—Contact Munir Haque | ActionEdge Executive Development: Website: AEEDNow.comLinkedin: Action Edge Executive Development Inc.Contact Chris Doble: Website: VMSAlberta.orgLinkedInPodcast Production:Recording:  PushySix StudiosProduction Assistance: Astronomic Audio—TranscriptChris Doble: [00:00:01] There's an analogy that we really like to use to describe VMs, which is that we don't build the race car, we train the race car driver. With the thinking that, of course we want to see success come to these start ups and come to these businesses, but for us, we really want that to flow through the growth and development of the individual. Longer term thinking being even if these ventures aren't ultimately successful, you've still built the skills and the capacity that someone could take with them to the next venture.Munir Haque: [00:00:29] Hello everyone, and welcome to another episode of The Boardroom 180 Podcast. I'm your host Munir Haque, an executive coach and senior board strategist. I have partnered with Action Edge Executive Development to lead their governance and political acumen division. In each episode, we meet with governance leaders and step into their boardrooms, where decisions shape the world around us.Munir Haque: [00:00:48] Today we're excited to welcome Mr. Chris Doble. Chris is the program director of the Venture Mentoring Service of Alberta, the VMSA. It's an entrepreneur mentorship program that focuses on building the leadership capacity of growth stage entrepreneurs. Based on the VMS mentorship model established at MIT, the VMSA supports entrepreneurs by surrounding them with a team of experienced business leaders who provide ongoing coaching and guidance as they scale their ventures. Before entering the world of mentorship, Chris worked in a variety of roles within the music industry as a studio manager of an audio post-production studio, to artist marketing and PR, to co-launching a mastering studio in Toronto. He has an Honors Bachelor of Arts from the University of Ottawa in Communications and Business Administration and is proud to be a Calgary born and raised citizen. Welcome to the show, Chris.Chris Doble: [00:02:04] Thanks for having me, Munir.Munir Haque: [00:02:06] I first came across you back in 2023 during Innovation Week here in Calgary. You were presenting at a session on governance. There were two other gentlemen who were presenting with you, one was talking specifically about the board of directors, another was talking about the board of advisors. You were talking about a board of consciousness, and that struck a spark in my head, because I hadn't heard of that too much before. I always kept in the back of my head that I was going to reach out to you and have you on here so we can talk a little bit about that. When I've done some of the research on board of consciousness, I think there's a variety of different roles that they fill, and I think there's maybe some different characteristics and maybe different interpretations of what they are. But I thought I'd get you on here to talk about, how do you interpret what a board of consciousness is?Chris Doble: [00:03:02] I'm glad you came to that session, and I am glad that you reached out. Because it's led to some really good conversations, and I appreciate the opportunity to come chat about this. I always smile when we use that term 'board of consciousness'. The word that we typically use when we describe what it is we do is mentorship, but I think board of consciousness is a prettier way of describing that. But this idea of, you're here to support an individual, where you have a board of directors or a board of advisors that may end up being more focused on helping your business or helping growth or strategy of the business, the organization, board of consciousness or mentors can really be focused on the individual. How do you help them grow and develop and succeed? More in whatever way that needs to look like for them. That's the focus of our mentorship program for entrepreneurs is, how do you take a group of highly experienced business leaders, entrepreneurs, business builders and put them around an up and coming entrepreneur and get focused on how you can make them a more effective leader. I'm sure today we can dive into what that looks like.Munir Haque: [00:04:10] We'll get into a little bit more depth, but why don't we take it back a step. You have some sort of relationship with Platform Calgary. Perhaps for some of our listeners who aren't in Calgary, who aren't familiar with Platform, why don't you give a little bit of background on that and then your relationship with them?

Discover how an unexpected injury led young entrepreneur Sash to pivot from professional soccer to founding Sept, an innovative legal tech startup. After his sports career was cut short, Sash channeled his entrepreneurial spirit into developing a practice management solution that's revolutionizing how boutique law firms operate. Through extensive research and hundreds of LinkedIn conversations with lawyers, Sash identified critical pain points in legal workflows and transformed what started as a resume project into a viable business solution. His story showcases the power of customer discovery and persistence in startup success. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Mina Demian is a seasoned strategic advisor and master connector, passionately dedicated to fostering personal and professional growth within the startup ecosystem. Currently at Platform Calgary, Mina leverages an extensive background in business development and coaching to empower entrepreneurs. Known for facilitating impactful skill development programs, connecting startups with essential resources, and building strong community partnerships, Mina is a cornerstone of the Greater Calgary startup community. Mina's commitment to the startup ecosystem extends beyond advisory roles—he actively represents and engages the community at events and welcomes new visionaries into Calgary's vibrant entrepreneurial landscape. Combining strategic thinking with a customer-focused approach, Mina helps businesses unlock their full potential while ensuring their growth makes a meaningful impact. Whether you're seeking strategic connections, funding opportunities, or expert guidance, Mina is the go-to partner to help elevate your venture and drive transformative growth.  Guest: Sashwat (Sash) Raghuwanshi is the Founder of SEPT. A legal Tech Practice Management Software. We help lawyers get back to doing actual work. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: SEPT. Alberta Catalyzer  Show Quotes: "I didn't realize that I was building an actual product of value until someone bought it... I was like, 'uh, yeah, of course we're selling it!'" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Send us a textUnlock the secrets of storytelling in Alberta's tech scene with insights from Leah Sarich, head of story at Thin Air Labs and host of the podcast, The Founder Mindset, and startup marketing consultant Kira Kelsie from Kasm Consulting. Explore how compelling narratives can transform public perceptions of complex innovations, fostering a culture of engagement and support throughout the province. Leah and Kira share their expertise on crafting stories that resonate broadly, bridging the gap between high-tech concepts and everyday Albertans, and creating a unified narrative spanning startups to industry giants.Discover the challenges and strategies involved in making intricate technologies relatable and accessible. Leah draws upon her journalism background to illustrate how plain language storytelling can highlight the human impact of innovations, while Kira sheds light on the common struggle founders face in simplifying their messages. Together, they offer practical tips for startups to connect with their audience, particularly in the clean tech sector, where skepticism is often a hurdle. Our discussion underscores the paramount importance of building trust and credibility through effective and authentic storytelling.Dive into ChatGPT: yay or nay? Our guests weigh in. Kira discusses AI-driven marketing strategies that prioritize authenticity and collaboration, while sharing a humorous story about the pitfalls of over-reliance on technology. Our conversation also emphasizes the importance of community, encouraging founders to share their stories at networking opportunities, open houses, and coffee meetups at places like Platform Calgary, Edmonton Unlimited and any of the Regional Innovation Networks:Calgary – Calgary Innovation Coalition Central AB – Central Alberta Regional Innovation Network Edmonton – Edmonton Regional Innovation NetworkEast Central AB – East Central Alberta Regional Innovation NetworkNortheast AB – Wood Buffalo Regional Innovation NetworkNorthwest AB – Grande Prairie Regional Innovation NetworkSoutheast AB – APEX: Southeast Alberta Regional Innovation NetworkSouthern AB – The Regional Innovation Network of Southern Alberta Finally, your call to action: just start small.We encourage founders just like you to take part in spotlighting Alberta's amazing tech ecosystem by contributing a short story about your business on LinkedIn. Start small and build your story telling muscle. You never know who will be listening! Whether you're a founder, entrepreneur, or tech enthusiast, this episode promises to enrich your understanding of storytelling's pivotal role in driving innovation and engagement. Shift by Alberta Innovates focuses on the people, businesses and organizations that are contributing to Alberta's strong tech ecosystem.

Send us a textDiscover the shimmering opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship in Alberta as we welcome insights from our guests, Tracy Stroud from APEX Alberta, Terry Rock from Platform Calgary, and Tom Viinikka from Edmonton Unlimited. Tom Viinikka, CEO of Edmonton Unlimited, walks us through he and his team's groundbreaking mission to nurture tech innovation and community building in Edmonton.  We're spotlighting captivating events like Startup Week in Edmonton, Innovation Week in Calgary, and the Small Business Week activities like APEX Alberta's Business Growth Tradeshow happening across the province that are fueling Alberta's entrepreneurial spirit. And make no mistake, these events are for EVERYONE. Expect to be inspired by the stories these three leaders share, as they work to redefine the landscape of entrepreneurship by creating vibrant spaces for networking, learning and support for Alberta's tech entrepreneurs and job seekers.Join us as we explore how Alberta is a hotbed for tech and knowledge-based innovation, from ideation to commercialization. Tracy Stroud of Apex Alberta shares incredible insights into the province's regional strengths, highlighting aerospace and drone innovation. Meanwhile, Terry Rock from Platform Calgary talks about Calgary as a thriving hub for tech entrepreneurs. We discuss the role of community events and reverse trade shows that connect service providers with entrepreneurs, exemplifying Alberta's commitment to collaboration and growth in both urban and rural settings.As we wrap up, the conversation shifts to the importance of community and networking in fostering entrepreneurial success. Hear about Alberta's burgeoning venture capital scene and how it's positioning the province as a leading contender for entrepreneurs in Canada. The conversation emphasizes the significance of industry leadership, long-term investments, and the efforts to support rural entrepreneurs in high-potential sectors. Finally, listen to Terry, Tom and Tracy pitch each of these extraordinary events:Startup Week in Edmonton from October 15 to 19,  Small Business Week from October 20 to 25 featuring the Business Growth Tradeshow in Medicine Hat on October 23, and Innovation Week in Calgary from November 13 to 21.Don't miss the chance to connect with visionaries who are helping to shape Alberta's future in driving our ecosystem forward.Shift by Alberta Innovates focuses on the people, businesses and organizations that are contributing to Alberta's strong tech ecosystem.

Send us a textCan interdisciplinary research transform Alberta's innovation landscape? Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Dr. Mike Mahon, interim CEO at Alberta Innovates. With a career spanning from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to leading roles at the University of Manitoba and the University of Alberta, Dr. Mahon shares his insights into fostering collaboration across diverse sectors like health, energy, environment, and agriculture. Learn how his vision aims to integrate these areas to build a more innovative and resilient Alberta.We dive deep into the power of teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration, highlighting an extraordinary example from the University of Lethbridge where a cell biologist and a physicist collaborated to make groundbreaking advancements in cancer research. Alberta Innovates stands at the forefront of these efforts, acting as a connector between researchers and startups. Mike explains how sustained support, along with Alberta's pioneering spirit, is crucial for maintaining leadership in science and innovation. Our conversation also touches on the vital role inventors play in driving forward-thinking solutions and partnerships throughout the province.Supporting Alberta's entrepreneurial ecosystem is no small feat, and in this episode, we address the challenges entrepreneurs and researchers face in turning innovative ideas into viable businesses. Lister in as we also explore innovative uses of bitumen, advancements in hydrogen energy, and transformative healthcare innovations, underscoring the importance of ethical frameworks and breaking down silos for greater collaboration. Wrapping up with a lively chat, we celebrate the spirit of teamwork and continuous improvement essential for driving Alberta's innovation forward.Shift by Alberta Innovates focuses on the people, businesses and organizations that are contributing to Alberta's strong tech ecosystem.

In today's episode, host Tyler Chisholm is joined by Chief Operating Officer of Platform Calgary, Jen Lussier, to discuss the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship in Calgary, particularly within the tech sector. They explore the crucial role of Platform Calgary as an innovation hub, providing a nexus for tech entrepreneurs to connect, incubate, and thrive through mentorship, education, and investment support. Jennifer shares insights on the challenges and successes of fostering a sustainable financial model by drawing industry investment and reducing reliance on governmental support, illuminated by Platform Calgary's non-transactional partnerships with giants like KPMG and National Bank.This episode is sponsored by clearmotive marketing. When it comes to marketing that truly matters to your business, clearmotive is your go-to partner. With a proven track record of more than 15 years, they understand what makes your business tick. Learn more at https://www.clearmotive.ca and discover how clearmotive can help your marketing thrive.We're on social media! Follow us for episodes you might have missed and key insights on Western Canada directly on your feeds.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyycLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collisions-yycWebsite: https://www.collisionsyyc.comThank you for tuning into Collisions YYC!Remember to subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.If you loved the episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share the show with your friends! These things really help us reach more potential fans and share everything that's amazing about Western Canada.We sincerely appreciate your support of our local podcast.Host links:Tyler's website: https://www.tylerchisholm.comTyler's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerchisholmGuest links:Jen Lussier's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jalussierPlatform Calgary's Website: https://www.platformcalgary.comPlatform Calgary's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/platformcalgaryPlatform Calgary's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/platformcalgaryPlatform Calgary's Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/platformcalgaryPlatform Calgary's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/platformcalgaryCollisions YYC is a Tyler Chisholm original production // Brought to you by clearmotive marketing

Terry Rock, President & CEO at Platform Calgary, discusses the organization's mission to make Calgary a global hub for startups and innovation. He emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in supporting entrepreneurs and shares insights on the challenges and skills necessary for startup success. GET THE FREE EBOOK - YYCLEADERS.COM

You know that snazzy parkade near the downtown library? It's part of a maturing tech sector in what's traditionally an oil and gas town. We hear from Platform Calgary, and a medical software company, on how to make it in tech.

In today's episode of Top Dog Tips with Greg Belanger, explore the dynamic world of Calgary's tech evolution with guest Terry Rock, the CEO of Platform Calgary, in this insightful video discussion. They discuss the city's emergence as a thriving tech innovation and entrepreneurship hub. Terry highlights the organization's vision to see a 10x increase in the pace of activity in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, efforts to attract investment and support startups, and the challenges of attracting early-stage investment and addressing the tech talent shortage. Terry also shares a success story of a startup company called Bolster, which grew from joining a program at Platform Calgary to becoming a 100-person company with multiple locations worldwide. The interview provides insights into Calgary's tech sector, Platform Calgary's initiatives, and the success of startup companies. Don't miss this engaging discussion with Terry Rock, where innovation meets opportunity, and Calgary emerges as a beacon of tech excellence. #topdogtips #PlatformCalgary #yycbusiness #tech #entrepreneur #innovation A bit about our guest: Terry is the President & CEO of Platform Calgary. Platform Calgary is laser focused on making Calgary a global hub for startups and innovation. They believe that an inclusive, tech-led approach to economic growth and diversification will unlock new avenues of prosperity for current and future Calgarians. You can connect with Terry on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terryrock About Greg and Top Dog Tips: Greg guides professionals and businesses to create strong brands built on their expertise and become the Go To authority in their niche. He applies 30 years of sales and marketing experience to building those brands, creating supporting digital assets, and promoting them across multiple channels and platforms. Connect with Greg on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregbelanger/ The best information on how to run a small business comes from those who do it every day. That's why Top Dog Tips hosts Calgary business owners who share their expertise and experiences with you. Get top business tips from the people in your community on how to you run your business more successfully. Top Dog Tips is also the ideal choice to showcase your expertise and your company. Promote your brand and story on Top Dog Tips and: ·Reach a global audience via the yyccalgarybusiness.ca website and the MegaPixxMedia YouTube channel. ·Gain additional viewers of your Top Dog Tips episodes through free publication on YYC Business social media platforms. ·Download your Top Dog Tips episode to your personal and company social media pages. Filmed and edited by ENTA Solutions www.entasolutions.org

Our first responder this week is Kristyn Snell, founder and CEO of MODERNSPEAK, a global creator management agency and Digitote a project management software for influencer managers. Kristyn understands the wild ride of becoming your own boss and the toxicity of “hustle culture”. She provides a survival kit for entrepreneurs that includes finding your failure, finding your worth and finding your people. 3:10 - Kristyn's “accidental” path to entrepreneurship7:10 - Kristyn's educational background 8:52 - Addressing the control or lack thereof in entrepreneurship13:20 - Delegating, imposter syndrome and sustainability16:30 - The value of having a support system18:58 - Kristyn's experience in the tech space21:45 - Hustle culture, the birth of Digitote, burnout and balance31:12 - Finding that support system and practicing trusting her gut39:30 - Gushing about Vanessa from Platform Calgary 41:54 - Local resources and support system cont'd45:08 - Managing the emotional highs and lows that come with entrepreneurship48:08 - Can negative emotions be a driving force for success?53:41 - Final words of wisdom/lessonsResources:Platform Calgary - https://www.platformcalgary.com/Venture Mentoring Services Alberta - https://www.vmsalberta.org/ Follow us on Insta! @mlnl911pod

On today's episode, host Tyler Chisholm is joined by Vanessa Gagnon, Director of Community at Platform Calgary, to discuss the upcoming Innovation Week in Calgary. The episode highlights the inclusive nature of the event, emphasizing its relevance not only for tech-savvy individuals but also for those who are "tech-curious." They delve into the diverse content tracks, the abundance of activities happening across the city, and the significant networking opportunities. Their insightful conversation provides a comprehensive overview of Innovation Week, encouraging listeners to participate and showcasing the collaborative, supportive nature of the Calgary tech community.This episode is sponsored by clearmotive marketing. When it comes to marketing that truly matters to your business, clearmotive is your go-to partner. With a proven track record of 15 years, they understand what makes your business tick. Learn more at https://www.clearmotive.ca and discover how clearmotive can help your marketing thrive.We're on social media! Follow us for episodes you might have missed and key insights on Western Canada directly on your feeds.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyycLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collisions-yycWebsite: https://www.collisionsyyc.comThank you for tuning into Collisions YYC!Remember to subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.If you loved the episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share the show with your friends!We sincerely appreciate your support of our local podcast.Host links:Tyler's website: https://www.tylerchisholm.caTyler's Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/tylerchisholmTyler's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerchisholmGuest links:Vanessa Gagnon's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessaincalgaryVanessa Gagnon's Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/nessincalgaryVanessa Gagnon's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nessincalgaryPlatform Calgary's Website: https://www.platformcalgary.comPlatform Calgary's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/platformcalgaryPlatform Calgary's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/platformcalgaryPlatform Calgary's Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/platformcalgaryPlatform Calgary's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/platformcalgaryCollisions YYC is a Tyler Chisholm original production // Brought to you by clearmotive marketing

Introducing Jen Lussier, a dynamic entrepreneurial force propelling Calgary's tech scene to unprecedented heights. As the COO of Platform Calgary, she's leading the charge in bringing the organization's audacious vision to life—empowering and catalyzing the extraordinary growth of Calgary's tech sector.During our conversation, we touched on Calgary's evolution into a thriving technology hub, with Jen shedding light on Platform Calgary's pivotal role in working to create a technology community that's not just welcoming but authentically inclusive while actively dismantling barriers to innovation.Jen also speaks to the harsh realities of entrepreneurship head-on, openly discussing the challenges of the business world and the importance of embracing failure. Prepare for an insightful chat with a tech visionary who's helping to shape Calgary's future.Jen Lussier: Website | Instagram | LinkedInThe Explore 84 Project: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Youtube

Introducing Jen Lussier, a dynamic entrepreneurial force propelling Calgary's tech scene to unprecedented heights. As the COO of Platform Calgary, she's leading the charge in bringing the organization's audacious vision to life—empowering and catalyzing the extraordinary growth of Calgary's tech sector.During our conversation, we touched on Calgary's evolution into a thriving technology hub, with Jen shedding light on Platform Calgary's pivotal role in working to create a technology community that's not just welcoming but authentically inclusive while actively dismantling barriers to innovation.Jen also speaks to the harsh realities of entrepreneurship head-on, openly discussing the challenges of the business world and the importance of embracing failure. Prepare for an insightful chat with a tech visionary who's helping to shape Calgary's future.Jen Lussier: Website | Instagram | LinkedInThe Explore 84 Project: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Youtube

In this episode of Summer Coffee Chats, Seth sat down with Richard Campbell - founder of 10 Adventures at Platform Calgary. Richard is entrepreneur who created a business around one of the things he's most passionate about, travelling. He started with a simple question... what would I want? and has built the business from there. Soaring to New HealthWe're talking Medicare Stars– what it is, why it's important, challenges & strategies. Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showThe Biz Dojo - Podcast, Production & Professional CoachingWebsite | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter

In this episode, Terry Rock rejoins the show to provide an update on what Platform Calgary is up to since his last appearance in December 2019. Platform Calgary is on a mission to create a front door to Calgary's innovation ecosystem by driving faster connections between talent, ideas and capital. By facilitating these connections and removing barriers, Calgary-based businesses will have greater access to many of the tools they need to succeed, scale and flourish. Founders are drowning in options to grow their business and spending time trying to put together fragments into a cohesive strategy can take a toll — and reduce the time a Founder can spend in their business. Terry explains how it takes a village to raise a business, and building a community space where the village can come together is crucial to long-term, sustainable success. Discover how to build an ecosystem with partnerships and how to determine the key performance indicators for measuring its effectiveness, along with key insights into how Platform Calgary can help your start-up to scale up more efficiently. 

Culture is about shared values. You don't have a culture if you don't have shared values. Platform Calgary is Calgary's tech and innovation hub. They are a community building organization that speeds up the ability to connect talent, capital, and ideas in the Calgary start-up scene. Their culture didn't just happen. It was built in right from the planning stages and is now being maintained via some shared rituals. Among those rituals are regular get togethers with staff and partners. Spending time together and getting to know each other and putting a name to the face. If you're looking for ideas on how to live and maintain your own company culture give this episode a look. Click the stamps below to enjoy our discussion and insights on: 00:00 Intro 00:11 Welcome to Platform Calgary 02:01 An Engaging Space 05:15 Removing Obstacles 09:35 Platform Future 15:01 Be a Guest Terry is the President and CEO at Platform Calgary, which is focused on making Calgary a global hub for start-ups and innovation. He works with people and organizations who want great things for our cities, are willing to roll up their sleeves and challenge the status quo to make their vision reality. You can connect with Terry on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/terryrock/ #tech #calgary #startups #innovation #plaformcalgary #yycentrepreneurs #acceleration To be our Next Guest on Culture Hack at YYC Calgary Business please follow this link https://form.123formbuilder.com/6233829/form Adam's alternate title at ENTA Solutions is The Culture Ninja. His passion is helping small businesses excel by creating an engaging company culture. Adam's goal is to help your team achieve clarity of purpose and wholeheartedly commit to your company's values and vision. Connect with Adam on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-kolozetti Website: https://yyccalgarybusiness.ca/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCySVptRPgzJJa9eBIWDxogQ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calgarysbusiness/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/calgarysbusiness/ Instagram: @yyccalgarybusiness TikTok: @yycbusiness Filmed and edited by ENTA Solutions https://www.entasolutions.org The views and opinions expressed in the video are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of MegaPixxMedia Ltd and their Affiliates Any content provided by our bloggers or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything. This video is for entertainment only.

They call it the third version of the Internet (web 3), but what does that mean?  What is the Metaverse? Join Al Del Degan and guest Sid Sharma as they unpack this complicated new world. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Sid Sharma is a co-founder and CEO of REHUMAN Inc. a decentralized identity & metaverse company with a mission to build an inclusive and equitable global digital economy. REHUMAN is based in the US, Canada, and Africa. REHUMAN was founded in 2019 with a dream to make a positive impact in the world through innovative products and philanthropy. And for the past 3 years, REHUMAN Foundation is committed to providing daily meals to 1500 children in Africa, along with funding for the school infrastructure and maintenance.  Sid has over a decade of experience in HR tech, identity management & cybersecurity, He got involved in blockchain development in 2016 starting with Ethereum, and Hyperledger which eventually led him to self-sovereign identity/ decentralized identity/ ToIP in 2018. He is also a contributor at W3C, DIF, and Hyperledger. Sid currently leads the Hyperledger chapter for Alberta and the Western Canada chapter for Government Blockchain Association. Sid is a community builder and a supporter of Alberta's startup ecosystem. In 2019, he launched a western Canada chapter of the Founder Institute. And built a team of over 100 mentors, investors, and ecosystem partners such as Dentons, KPMG, Platform Calgary, Calgary Economic Development, Thin Air Labs, Valhalla Angels, and more. Sid is a champion for diversity, mental health, and inclusive leadership. In his free time, Sid hosts a podcast and a youtube channel. In Dec 2017, RE:HUMAN podcast (formerly JOLSID podcast) was ranked in “the top 48 podcasts in the world for entrepreneurs” by Entreprenur.com. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: reHuman Inc. reUniverse Founders Institute Show Quotes: "You go to places and basically they want so much information about you or they won't even do background checks on you. They just look at you and just because you don't look like the usual demographics, you don't get the same opportunity." "So many people move to this country and they're educated doctors and physicians and stuff, and we have shortage of those people, but they drive cabs, so somebody's failing them" "The late majority only adopts things when user experience has been simplified. And right now user experience sucks in Web3" "If we really want Alberta to be next level, we have to go back to our roots of being pioneers and taking a little bit risk as opposed to we have to be political this, political that. And sometimes you just have to do it." "From a creator's perspective, you, you have to think about it. Have we done enough to protect our kids?" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

One of the three pillars of Platform Calgary is Place, which is defined as not just a building, but a community. This Place has a “no barrier” front door, it is public space that invites people to come on in and start innovating. Platform Calgary is the newest iteration of an organization that has been focused on growing the Calgary technology sector for the last 4 decades. The purpose is to serve founders by giving them a community of support and mentorship, teach them the core concepts to build their business, and give them access to investors. The goal is to is tripling tech companies in Calgary in the next 10 decade. See what CEO Terry Rock has to say about this innovative new space. #platformcalgary #yycentrepreneurs #startsups #technologycalgary #innovators Terry Rock – President & CEO Specialties: Board governance, strategy, strategic planning, team leadership, organization change, fundraising, policy development, marketing, communications, public speaking, research, government relations, social innovation, community engagement. https://www.linkedin.com/in/terryrock/ Platform Calgary – Calgary's Home for Innovators The Platform Innovation Centre is a hub dedicated to supporting startups and entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey. The Innovation Centre provides a single point of access to resources, supports, programming and events to help startups successfully launch and grow their business. The Innovation Centre is a forward-thinking project — built in partnership with Calgary Parking Authority and Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC) — designed to meet the changing needs of our community while accelerating Calgary's innovation economy. Platform Calgary exists to generate shared prosperity by making Calgary, Alberta a global hub for startups and innovation. We accelerate the tech ecosystem in Calgary by bringing together the power of Place, Programs and Partners: Place: A purpose-built hub and a welcoming community that gives innovators the tools and connections they need to succeed. Programs: Stage and sector-specific education, advice and globally connected mentorship you need to ideate, launch and scale your venture. Partners: An aligned ecosystem of over 60 partners dedicated to supporting innovative founders, investors and enterprises. https://www.platformcalgary.com/ | ENTA Solutions entasolutions.ca Be our Next Guest on ENTA Asks: https://www.megapixxmedia.com/enta-asks?affiliate_id=3004257 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calgarysbusiness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/calgarysbusiness/ Filmed: Artin Rahim & Dominic Lindia Edited: Artin Rahim Copy Writing: Ines Quandel The views and opinions expressed in the video are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of MegaPixxMedia Ltd and their Affiliates Any content provided by our bloggers or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything.

There's an innovative new building in the downtown and it's home to Platform Calgary. Platform Calgary is focused on growing the entrepreneurial community in Calgary, particularly in the tech and innovation space. They provide programs to teach entrepreneurs how to run and grow their business. Platform currently has over 60 partners to help you build and accelerate your start-up. They also have a place where you can meet up with like-minded people to discuss ideas, learn and grow. Listen in as David and Umair describe their Platform journeys. Hashtags: #innovation #platformcalgary #yycentrepreneurs Platform Calgary – Calgary's Home for Innovators The Platform Innovation Centre is a hub dedicated to supporting startups and entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey. The Innovation Centre provides a single point of access to resources, supports, programming and events to help startups successfully launch and grow their business. The Innovation Centre is a forward-thinking project — built in partnership with Calgary Parking Authority and Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC) — designed to meet the changing needs of our community while accelerating Calgary's innovation economy. Platform Calgary exists to generate shared prosperity by making Calgary, Alberta a global hub for startups and innovation. We accelerate the tech ecosystem in Calgary by bringing together the power of Place, Programs and Partners: Place: A purpose-built hub and a welcoming community that gives innovators the tools and connections they need to succeed. Programs: Stage and sector-specific education, advice and globally connected mentorship you need to ideate, launch and scale your venture. Partners: An aligned ecosystem of over 60 partners dedicated to supporting innovative founders, investors and enterprises. https://www.platformcalgary.com/ David Yiptong – Director, Acceleration @ Platform Calgary https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidyiptong/ Umair Tazeem – Founder of Embold Currently building Embold. An innovative platform that allows advertisers to connect with micro influencers to run highly targeted campaigns. With over 5000 influencers across Canada, advertisers can reach millions of Canadian customers and engage them with original content. We're looking for smart, ambitious, and hungry doers to join our team and power our moonshot. https://www.linkedin.com/in/umair-tazeem/ | ENTA Solutions entasolutions.ca Be our Next Guest on ENTA Asks: https://www.megapixxmedia.com/enta-asks?affiliate_id=3004257 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calgarysbusiness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/calgarysbusiness/ Filmed: Artin Rahim & Dominic Lindia Edited: Artin Rahim Copy Writing: Ines Quandel The views and opinions expressed in the video are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of MegaPixxMedia Ltd and their Affiliates Any content provided by our bloggers or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything.

Platform Calgary provides Place, Programs and Partners all focused on creating an ecosystem in which founders and start-ups can thrive. The partners include post-secondary institutions and skill building organizations, investors, mentors, and work groups. These partners are there to teach founders the entrepreneurial skills they will need to grow a start-up, and employees the skills to work in innovative tech environments. The goal is to build an ecosystem that supports innovators, entrepreneurs, and start-ups in which they can find the right resources and support with as little friction as possible. Watch Jen and Margo talk all things innovation, startups, and business ecosystems. Check out their story below! Click the stamps below to enjoy our discussion and insights on: #yycentrepreneurs #founders #startupsupport #networkingyyc #techhub Jen Lussier – Director, Growth I'm a long-time entrepreneur in Calgary. At Platform as Director of Growth, I'm responsible for high impact, strategic relationships and revenue-generating corporate partnerships, to ensure the sustainability of the organization and to support the growth of the tech sector in the city. I work to find alignment and create stronger ties with other tech ecosystem organizations through outreach, connection and collaboration. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jalussier/ Margo Purcell – CEO at InceptionU I help organizations and teams to uncover hidden talent; and generate ideas that lead to transformational change. Creative, driven and engaging learning and development professional with over 18 years of progressive achievement in training and development, consulting, public engagement, advocacy, customer service and coaching. https://www.linkedin.com/in/margopurcell/ Platform Calgary – Calgary's Home for Innovators We accelerate the tech ecosystem in Calgary by bringing together the power of Place, Programs and Partners: Place: A purpose-built hub and a welcoming community that gives innovators the tools and connections they need to succeed. Programs: Stage and sector-specific education, advice and globally connected mentorship you need to ideate, launch and scale your venture. Partners: An aligned ecosystem of over 60 partners dedicated to supporting innovative founders, investors and enterprises. https://www.platformcalgary.com/ | ENTA Solutions entasolutions.ca Be our Next Guest on ENTA Asks: https://www.megapixxmedia.com/enta-asks?affiliate_id=3004257 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calgarysbusiness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/calgarysbusiness/ Filmed: Artin Rahim & Dominic Lindia Edited: Artin Rahim Copy Writing: Ines Quandel The views and opinions expressed in the video are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of MegaPixxMedia Ltd and their Affiliates Any content provided by our bloggers or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything.

Kevin, Shanika and Jenna talk about their experience and advice as startup founders, what motivated them to launch their startup and the supports available for new founders though the Alberta Catalyzer program. For the transcription of this episode please visit: https://www.rainforestab.ca/yyc-blog/podcast-episode-173-transcription Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Kevin Dahl is a geek at heart. He loves technology and is fascinated by its impact on society. Kevin's background is peppered with senior roles in business development, sales, product development, operations, and HR. Kevin started building companies while studying at the U of S, and he continued that entrepreneurial drive by jumping into a startup right after graduation...and never looked back.  After moving to Calgary Kevin had the opportunity to work as a community builder at then Calgary Technologies Inc - and ultimately returned to industry as a founder and early employee in several startups over the years. He's also been a volunteer with numerous industry groups, and is a strong advocate for entrepreneurs in Calgary's growing tech sector.  Kevin is currently a Director in Plug and Play's Alberta office, where he leads their Sector Agnostic AI/ML program and co-leads their Sustainability and Clean Resources program. Guest: Shanika Abeysinghe is a recovering founder and advisor at Platform Calgary. She fills her free time with EACH+EVERY, an organization that aims to reduce preventable overdose deaths and help build a more fair and compassionate community by adding the voice of businesses to accelerate drug policy reform. She is also host/producer of Get Checkered, a podcast all about Formula One, and serves on the community council for The51. Guest: Jenna Galloway is the Founder and Managing Director of Wymbin, a youth wellness and education studio located in Inglewood, Calgary. The studio offers a Licensed Preschool & Kindergarten program, camps, and offerings that support families in allowing their children to thrive during the most crucial developmental years. Wymbin provides comprehensive school wellness programs and professional development opportunities to schools and organizations in Calgary. Wymbin also has development a Yoga Alliance recognized Teacher Training Program and has trained over 800 instructors throughout North America. For more information please visit www.wymbin.com. Jenna is also the Founder of BEAM Foundation- a registered charity that provides free access to programs that support wellbeing for young people who may not otherwise have these opportunities. BEAM stands for Balance, Empower, Action, and Movement. Through the provision of programs that integrate physical literacy and emotional competency, BEAM partners with Alberta organizations to support them in providing opportunities for all youth to thrive. For more information please visit www.beamfoundation.ca.  After 10 years of experience within the health, education, and wellness industries in Calgary, Jenna identified a gap in the market where Education Technology can be used in a preventative approach to building capacity in young students ages Kindergarten to Grade 3. She is currently working with a team to develop an EdTech platform that can be used at home and in school settings that will build social-emotional competency and functional capacity within young students so that they can face the challenges of daily life with resilience and the ‘tools' they need. For more information, please visit https://www.fledge.health/.   Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Wymbin BEAM Foundation Fledge Platform Calgary Show Quotes: "If I could say anything, it's just, jump in even if you're feeling apprehensive or like you might not be a fit, just give it a shot. You never know what will come of it. I didn't know if it would be a good fit for me, but the people at Platform will give you honest feedback and they'll point you in the right direction, so regardless of whether or not you take this program. I think it's valuable to reach out and just get connected with the community." "I think Calgary is doing a really good job of supporting entrepreneurs, but something that potentially could be stronger is just engaging youth in getting involved in entrepreneurship opportunities from an earlier age." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Joined by guest Terry Rock from Platform Calgary, Wellington talks about the role innovation will play in disrupting Alberta's economy.

Dr. Terry Rock is President & CEO of Platform Calgary. He is a passionate promoter of Calgary's potential as one of the world's most dynamic cities and has been fortunate to be involved in numerous community-building initiatives in his hometown. Terry lives by the personal mission to “Be For The World” and strives to help build a society that is prosperous, resilient and inclusive.  He also likes beer…_______________________________The Kondrat Podcast:  website | instagram | facebookTerry Rock: websiteinstagram

Dr. Terry Rock is President & CEO of Platform Calgary. He is a passionate promoter of Calgary's potential as one of the world's most dynamic cities and has been fortunate to be involved in numerous community-building initiatives in his hometown. Terry lives by the personal mission to “Be For The World” and strives to help build a society that is prosperous, resilient and inclusive.  He also likes beer…_______________________________The Kondrat Podcast:  website | instagram | facebookTerry Rock: websiteinstagram

Mike noticed a problem - there are over 23M managers on LinkedIn all working in the culture space - and all having different conversations and using different methodologies. So, he co-founded Cratic AI to help culture managers use artificial intelligence and conversations to get better data, giving them a clear understanding of their company's culture through the lens of things like conscientiousness, openness, friendliness and more. Mike also shares how Calgary's entrepreneurial spirit works well in large corporations - not just startups - and why he believes start-up programs like Creative Destruction Lab (CDL) and Platform Calgary are our biggest competitive advantage.

If there's one thing we're learning from the pandemic it's the importance of local businesses in our communities. Most of the time this has taken the form of calls to buy products and services locally to support your community. Of course, it's much easier to support local the more local businesses we can foster. Terry Rock CEO of Platform Calgary and our guest this week on Your Neck of the Woods is hoping we can shift towards “build local” and “work local”.Platform Calgary is an organization looking to foster local entrepreneurship by providing a 1 stop shop for business owners to start, grow and find investment opportunities for their company all in one beautiful building downtown. We take some time to chat about the programs and opportunities offered at the Innovation Centre when it opens later this year as well as where Calgary might be going as a city. Terry sees Texas as a good comparable for Calgary. A resource economy that's also attracting talent and emerging in the tech sector. Our city seems well-positioned to thrive again with a concerted effort.Cities that attract and retain talent aren't just looking to attract large business headquarters to create jobs they create those 5000 jobs at home and the culture shift can feedback to the corporations. Another advantage Calgary can have is our vibrant food and culture sectors, both of which our guest has had a hand in. I'm happy to say this led to some great restaurant recommendations I'm excited to try!So give this chat a listen whether you're just looking for some delicious new food or craft beer to try or an aspiring entrepreneur looking to get your company off and running cause it'll be invaluable either way. Your Neck of the Woods has a bright and thriving future coming and organizations like Platform Calgary want to be part of the culture change that will make it happen!To learn more about Platform Calgary as well as its programs, services, and partnerships go to platformcalgary.com and follow @PlatformCalgary on social media.Be part of the conversation suggest topics, submit questions, and get the latest updates by following @JMcGregoryyc on social media don't forget to use the hashtag #YNotW

Terry's passion for Calgary is clear. He is bullish about the city, and he understands that Calgarians can benefit from being a world-class city. Terry is a true leader that works with innovative start-ups to help them succeed with Platform Calgary as they solve complex, global problems. Terry knows that Calgary has a bright future ahead of it and shares his thoughts on how we will become an even more innovative, global city in the future.

Community advocacy, collaboration, and economic recovery. These are things that are of paramount importance to the latest guest on Your Neck of the Woods. DJ Kelly a candidate for Ward 4, and community engagement strategist at the University of Calgary as well as a former columnist for Metro and Alberta at Noon has a lot to say on these subjects. As it so happens you know I have lots to say on these subjects and so when we met recently on a tour of Platform Calgary's innovation Centre asking him to be a guest on the show was a natural fit.The tour of Platform Calgary innovation Centre was the catalyst for much of our conversation on economic recovery as well. In order to get our city economy back where it wanted to be fiscal responsibility must be coupled with the support of entrepreneurs, activation and retention of Calgary's students, and the attraction of new global business partners. My recent experience, as well as past experience advocating for disability issues, tell me that having a lot of core resources in one easily accessible place can be an accelerator to getting things done and DJ and I both believe that this project can accomplish this goal.Dj's experience and our collective frustration found us discussing the all-too-familiar pattern of vague broad policy announcements from the City Council which don't lend well to practical solutions that you know I advocate for. Specific, measurable, and attainable goals are ultimately what would lead to positive outcomes and alongside data transparency are things the city has been lacking for a while now. The ability to prioritize these things is important to me and seems very important to my guest. The future of the city that we call home and love depends on not only ineffective economic recovery but the engagement of all Calgarians. If we want to see a bright future in Your Neck of the Woods we can't settle for the way things are, let's be great!

In this Innovative Leaders conversation with Terry Rock - the CEO of Platform Calgary - you will learn: How to create guiding principles for your organization. How to enrol people in change How to create a culture of ownership and agency How to stay grounded as an innovative leader I loved this conversation and took away a few pages of notes. I think you'll really enjoy it as well.  — Hello, I'm Ernest. My mission is to help innovative leaders accelerate positive change.  The work we do helps leaders confidently navigate uncertainty, clearly communicate their vision, lead with authenticity, and catalyze change Some clients have called me “the CEO whisperer” because of the deep level of trust, challenge, and support in our work. We use executive coaching and strategy facilitation to look at the impact you want to make and remove obstacles that are standing in your way.  Sounds interesting? Connect with me on LinkedIn, or explore our executive coaching and strategy work.

This week host Jason Hatcher sits down with Dr. Terry Rock from Platform Calgary to discuss the future of innovation and the tech sector, followed by our rapid fire round debating the best in beer and music. And as a special treat, to kick of the Calgary Stampede we will end the show with a hit from Calgarian Cole Bradley, making it big in Nashville.

This week host Jason Hatcher sits down with Dr. Terry Rock from Platform Calgary to discuss the future of innovation and the tech sector, followed by our rapid fire round debating the best in beer and music. And as a special treat, to kick of the Calgary Stampede we will end the show with a hit from Calgarian Cole Bradley, making it big in Nashville.

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Patrick Wu Patrick is a freelance graphic designer, UX designer, and marketing consultant with a background in biotechnology and life sciences commercialization. His career has taken him across a wide range of areas, from sales and marketing, government advocacy, ecosystem development, and now design. Since 2016, he has since been an active member in the Rainforest community, advocating for technology, innovation, and life sciences in Alberta. Colton Rhyason A friendly dude who has dabbled in sustainability, recreation and the startup world. Avid traveler, beer drinker, and Limer. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Summary Patrick and Colton talk about Startup Calgary, how our local innovation ecosystem has been changing, his past startups, kayaking, and everything in between. Show Quote: Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: SAIT School for Advanced Digital Technology Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan System Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - Chase Telecom Inc.  

This week Wellington and “recovering entrepreneur” Ray DePaul dive into business creation, the challenges of being an entrepreneur and the opportunities that lay ahead for Alberta. Ray DePaul shares his journey of what brought him to Alberta and how he steered his company, RapidMind Inc., through funding and significant market growth and turned the company into an industry leader. Ray also shares his previous work experience of being part of the team Research in Motion which is now Blackberry. Ray expresses his ambition to build high impact talent through the Innovation and Entrepreneurship program at Mount Royal University and assist in delivering transformative community-engaged learning experiences. He states, “don't invest in the business but invest in the person”, as the next generation of entrepreneurs are still formulating who they want to be. Paul explains his personal interactions with students and says that the courses force the student to experience entrepreneurship rather than simply study it.  About Ray: Ray DePaul is the inaugural Director of the Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Mount Royal University. Ray has launched many innovative products in his 30-year career. He has been a successful entrepreneur, selling his company to Intel, and was also a key member of the team that brought the iconic BlackBerry to the world. He is currently a volunteer on the board of Platform Calgary, a board member at Attabotics and Trico Homes, and is a member of the prestigious A100. He is also on several private sector advisory boards and is proud to be a mentor to many young entrepreneurs. Ray holds a Bachelor of Mathematics in Computer Science from the University of Waterloo and a Master of Business Administration from Wilfrid Laurier University.Resources discussed in this episode: https://calgaryherald.com/business/local-business/students-taking-care-of-businessAbout JMH Launchpad event connectFirst Credit Union: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedInRay DePaul:  LinkedIn

Replay of Part 3 of the NACO Roundtable on Incubators, Accelerators, and Entrepreneurial Activity"The bigger concern we're really seeing is founders that are pre-revenue or at that very early stage of development. They're the ones that are, are at this point, falling through the gap" John MacRitchie, Assistant Vice-President, Zone Learning and Strategic Initiatives at Ryerson University"Let's move at the speed of trust. Let's move things and audit later if we have to... when we're talking to our institutional partners in government, that's the sentiment that we should all be echoing" Terry Rock, CEO at Platform Calgary"These are very fragile startups and whatever we do, we need to not make this journey even more fragile for them. Because we definitely will lose some along the way" Sherry Colbourne, CEO at Spark CentreOriginally Recorded on April 9, 2020. Click here to join future roundtables.

COVID 19 has swept the globe and has left our Albertan innovation ecosystem in a state of fear and uncertainty. Businesses are struggling to handle the immediate pressure of balancing resources while maintaining revenue and the livelihood of their employees.Alberta Innovates remains committed to ensuring the viability of the innovation ecosystem through our coaching, community and capital investment support. These are extraordinary circumstances and we are working quickly to support Alberta business during this critical time.This episode features a round table discussion with Terry Rock, President and CEO of Platform Calgary; Lan Tan, Director of Entrepreneur Development at TEC Edmonton, and and Lindsay Spadavecchia, Technology Development Advisor with Alberta Innovates. The group discusses the current innovation ecosystem and how our communities are responding.Discussion topics included:The resources available for businesses and entrepreneursThoughts on maintaining your mental and physical health as a entrepreneurWays to leverage the ecosystem to keep things moving forwardTips on best way to stay connected during times of isolationTips on preparing for recoveryTogether, we have the fortitude and capacity to emerge from this challenge stronger and better.