Collisions YYC

Robots and artificial intelligence are changing the world. But it can be hard to see how these technologies will affect us in the future. Dennis likens robotics and AI training to seeing the internet before it came around - by creating a company that can scale and grow with these changes, EZ-Robot is right in the center of this major shift. In this episode, you’ll learn how Dennis selected key partners who could short circuit sales cycles, provide guidance, and create growth opportunities. By completing crowdfunding in earlier stages of the company, EZ-Robot is better positioned for an angel or VC investor. No technical expertise is required for this episode - just old-fashioned curiosity about how our world will change with these technologies.

You’ll learn about how Ghada is taking theoretical research on nanotechnology and applying it to real-world problems in lithium mining. From working in a lab on a small solution to identifying how to scale a solution for industry, Ghada expertly identifies some of the key gaps between industry and education. You’ll also gain an understanding of how nanotechnology works to extract lithium, which might just spark a new idea of how this can be leveraged into other industries. With so many companies focused on net-zero and ESG, this episode is relevant regardless of your industry.

Globally each year, 2.6 million workers wake up, go to work, and do not make it home due to a fatal workplace incident. Despite efforts to audit and examine these fatalities — and what led to them — this number continues to rise. The Sofvie team took this on as a challenge to empower workers to have full control over whether they make it home or not. Leaders of the organizations they support require the right mindset to generate holistic buy-in across their organization to implement radical change in health & safety. Learn how leaders should approach creating unity in safety, how health & safety directly correspond to production and sustainability, and the tools Sofvie has created to help high-risk industries build a brighter and safer future.

In 1996, Plug and Play Tech Center founder Saeed Amidi was busy investing in successful companies like Logitech and PayPal. After realizing the potential for profit in this space, he shifted his focus to supporting start-ups in finding the right companies and investors. Today, with 52 locations worldwide, Plug and Play Tech Center is creating a significant impact through collaboration, networking and investments. The government of Alberta recognizes that by elevating local start-ups to the global stage alongside organizations like Plug and Play, we can elevate our start-up community and attract new companies, people, investment dollars and opportunities that can transform our economy for the better.

Whether you’re a curious Calgarian or an accredited investor, Start Alberta is a treasure trove of information about our changing economic landscape. Not only can you go granular on deal flows happening with Alberta businesses, but you can also ride the groundswell of activity by familiarizing yourself with the companies helping create the next chapter of Alberta’s economy. This episode will help you understand the strategic importance of our start-up ecosystem, why we need a platform like Start Alberta, and where our province is headed.

How we show up - whether on the ice or in the boardroom - has a lasting impact on those we share the space with. The words we use can positively or negatively impact one’s health. And, with such scrutiny on Hockey Canada happening right now, there has never been a better time to equip players, coaches and parents with mental health skills to navigate these changing dynamics. Gain insights on the challenges and considerations when creating a non-profit, how storytelling has been crucial to their program, and how you can get involved to help close 1616’s funding gap so they can continue to provide these valuable services for free to those they support.

There is so much to learn when it comes to finances and even more when it comes to taxation. Krista will help you level set and understand which laws might apply to you, whether you’re a business, individual or corporation. It’s clear she is passionate about thinking out of the box and sharing her expertise, which will benefit you if you’re considering expanding a business into another country or working remotely somewhere else in the world.Regardless of what you do or where you operate, Krista knows Alberta’s tax advantage is still one of the best!

Brahm is an optimistic investor who sees many positive indicators for businesses in Western Canada. His competitive insights include thoughts about our ability to incubate successful businesses. You’ll also get clarity on Round13’s approach to venture capital, which includes a strong background in operations and finance while trying to “change the world.” Why do they believe that having a strong working relationship with companies they invest in is essential? Because they believe it leads to better outcomes for all involved.

Few people have the opportunity to work for a world-class organization, let alone one as old and prestigious as Wajax. Founded in 1858, Wajax is an industrial services and products provider that has been serving Canada for over 160 years. Iggy’s skillset within the industrial industry, combined with his younger age, gives him plenty of runway for a long and successful career at Wajax. If you’ve ever wondered how to gain long-term vision in your leadership role, this episode is a must-listen. 

Our province has the opportunity to completely revamp its education system and create a more inclusive job market. Canada is a safe haven for many asylum seekers and immigrants, but often their skills aren’t recognized in our job market. As we continue to grow economically, David believes companies are using the wrong reference points to identify key talent that can define and deliver success. He thinks there are steps we can take — like redefining reference points between academia and employment, offering micro-credentials, or disrupting our education system — that could generate huge success for Alberta and Canada as a whole.