Collisions YYC

The future is now. There are so many emerging technologies enhancing our world - from augmented reality to mixed reality and the Metaverse - and it’s all happening right here in Alberta. Hear from Jeff LaFrenz and find out how some of our most forward-thinking entrepreneurs are developing a brighter technological future and leveraging tech to enable positive progression globally.

Creating a business can be an exciting and thrilling pursuit - but what happens when it grows and you no longer feel important to it? According to John, that means it’s successful. He shares the story of Earthware, his company that is creating a return-for-reuse, zero-waste takeout container to keep things tasty without the wastey. While his team works to build that future, John is focused on the governance and goals of Earthware. Get his insights into setting up your organization to be successfully sold in the future.

Leveraging data collected here in Alberta, Tara’s team at Medlior can develop scientific studies to support positive patient outcomes worldwide. As a graduate of Alberta IoT's Fast Track Program, Medlior leverages technology and data to accomplish its scientific studies. Tara also highlights why Alberta is a phenomenal place to be a business owner - especially in STEM with the University of Calgary and the University of Alberta’s world-class programs, students and faculties to draw on.

Blockchain technology is so much more than cryptocurrencies. Blockchain is a distributed ledger that helps companies verify data and provide users with total privacy. Dan Giurescu, CEO of Credivera, explains how blockchain helps companies reduce risk and protect their bottom lines. He also shares how Credivera’s unique solutions let transparently verify personal information and empower the user to have total control over their data.

Justice reform is a complex, layered and complicated process, but Anu’s exceptional credentials and law background make her a knowledgeable leader in this area. IJM Canada focuses on a straightforward solution: the theory of change. When the justice system protects the poor—and slave owners, traffickers and other criminals can no longer exploit with impunity—millions of vulnerable people will never be abused. You will learn some hard truths about slavery around the world and how IJM Canada is strategically working to end it; including how, in targeted areas of the globe, IJM Canada has the ability to rescue millions and protect half a billion people against trafficking and slavery by 2030. 

Technological innovations such as the Internet of Things have the power to transform industries. One of the oil and gas industry’s biggest challenges is corrosion in pipes that could endanger the environment, or interfere with other pipes. Larry explains how their unique IoT technology can benefit mining, oil and gas, and more as well as his experience seeking capital investment for Total Containment. 

In today’s fast-paced world, consumers are increasingly demanding convenience and speed in every aspect of their lives. They want everything faster than ever. That’s why we like Amazon — we can get pretty much anything we desire within a day or two. But global dependence on Amazon is a double-edged sword. Mid-sized e-commerce companies are trying to compete with Amazon by providing the same level of convenience - but Sam has another idea to make mid-sized e-commerce driven companies successful. Find out what the future of e-commerce and payment processing looks like.

Cory knows Alberta is home to some of the best researchers in the world. This is especially true when it comes to health and data, both of which are fundamental to the unique opportunity Alberta has to promote our research in a global market. We have the potential to be the biggest player in the AI industry, but we need to step up our commercialization efforts. The tech industry could be a multi-billion dollar industry here in Alberta and completely reshape the way we - and others - think about our province.

In our 200th episode, Kristina Williams shares the optimistic and encouraging story of venture capital investing in Alberta. Kristina is President and CEO of Alberta Enterprise, a fund-to-fund program focused on money, markets, mentors and management. When Alberta Enterprise was founded in 2006, there was only $37M invested in Alberta companies. In 2020, they saw $455M invested into 51 companies. Alberta Enterprise is helping incredibly innovative Alberta companies stay local to get a VC deal.

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.