We’re proud to wrap up another year of Start Alberta’s Tech Awards. Thanks to our committed sponsors, we have 13 award categories this year to honour the individuals and organizations with standout contributions to Alberta’s tech industry.
Here’s a recap of the 2021 winners – congratulations to each of you!
2021 Start Alberta Tech Awards Winners
Jobber – Tech Deal of the Year presented by Alberta Enterprise
Awarded to a company that has raised a large amount of capital through fundraising.
Jobber is an Edmonton-based software company that helps small home service businesses to succeed with an easy-to-use business development platform. Their diligent work led to success in raising $76M CAD in their most recent Series C fundraising round.
Abby Aiyeleye – Most Promising Startup Entrepreneur of the Year presented by Startup Edmonton and Startup Calgary
Presented to a founder who has spearheaded community involvement while launching a technology-focused company in the province.
Selected for her community involvement and successful startup launch, Abby Aiyeleye pioneered a digital design company, Clavis Studio, that equips users with a beautifully decorated and functional space with the help of immersive 3D technology.
InceptionU – Digital Talent Champion Award presented by SAIT
Awarded to a tech company that has developed and fostered digital talent to accelerate innovation and diversification in Alberta.
InceptionU provides courses to offer learning opportunities and improve the skill sets of developers and designers. Its courses aid in building tomorrow’s generation of technology innovators for a stronger tech sector in Alberta.
Zack Storms – Rod Charko Service Award presented by VCAA
Presented to an individual who is committed to entrepreneurial impact and works carefully to provide resources and venture capital in the tech sector.
Zack Storms, founder of Startup TNT, was recognized for his contributions to the venture capital and technology community and for repeatedly going above and beyond to create compelling opportunities to connect and showcase tech talent in Alberta.
Helpseeker Technologies – Impact Award presented by ATB Financial
Recognizes an innovative tech company that is committed to the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards.
Helpseeker Technologies provides solutions for complex challenges, such as domestic violence and community safety. By recognizing the need for social change and equity, Helpseeker Technologies has built a hub of online resources and digital solutions.
Symend and Neo Financial – Fast Growth Awards presented by BDC
Awarded to two companies in the tech sector that have demonstrated the highest annual revenue growth.
Symend applies behavioural science, data science and advanced analytics to provide insight and resources to resolve past due bills. By applying a deep understanding of consumer behaviour, Symend has helped global enterprises respond to the ever-changing needs of their customers.
Neo Financial has partnered with some of the leading Canadian financial institutions to provide innovative avenues to spend, save, and get rewarded. Neo provides Canadians with tools for a successful financial future including software that assists with paying bills, making deposits, and sending e-transfers.
Syantra – The A100 One to Watch Award presented by A100
Awarded to a company that is voted by A100 members as “most likely to succeed”.
Syantra uses a blood test to screen for breast cancer with an accuracy rating of 91%. Their blood-based cancer detection system offers stepping stones to a brighter future for cancer patients.
Startup TNT – Ecosystem Supporter of the Year Award presented by Edmonton Global and Calgary Economic Development
Recognizes the organization that works diligently to help other entrepreneurs in the province grow and flourish.
Startup TNT is dedicated to community building with entrepreneurs and investors to unleash the potential of Alberta’s startups. The nonprofit organization hosts happy hours, summits, and other opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect and network in an attempt to build more flourishing companies and grow Alberta’s tech investor pool.
The Community Safety and Wellness Accelerator – Most Significant Cross-Community Collaboration Award presented by Technology Alberta
Awarded to a company that has collaborated with other communities to move the technology sector forward.
The CSW Accelerator, powered by Alchemist, features a unique accelerator platform that addresses the social and safety challenges of Edmonton communities. It offers mentorship, access to global funding, and a proven curriculum through machine learning and artificial intelligence.
Thin Air Labs – Tech Investor of the Year Award presented by Alberta Enterprise
Presented to a company or firm that has provided significant investment acumen over the past year.
Thin Air Labs supports the local tech ecosystem by providing capital to startups and entrepreneurs. Its investments and mentorship ignite venture growth, facilitate human impact and drive connection throughout the community.
Ashlyn Bernier – Woman in Tech Award presented by BDC
Awarded to a forward-thinking woman in Alberta’s tech sector who has demonstrated entrepreneurial success.
Ashlyn Bernier, COO of Samdesk, has used her experience, education, and passion to assist the company in providing global crisis monitoring and assistance to keep people connected and safe with live updates and situational awareness.
Benevity – Most Significant Tech Transaction of the Year Award presented by PwC
Presented to a technology company that has been involved in the most significant funding event or transaction.
Benevity’s technology transforms workplace culture, creating community and customer connections. In 2021, the company was acquired at a valuation over $1 billion USD. Locally, Benevity seeks to drive social impact and contribute to diversity with its hiring and community building in Alberta.
Final thanks and outlook
These awards would not be possible without our generous sponsors who are pillars of the Alberta tech community. Thank you to SAIT School for Advanced Digital Technology, ATB Financial, PwC, BDC, Alberta Enterprise Corporation, the A100, VCAA, Calgary Economic Development, Edmonton Global, Platform Calgary, Startup Calgary, Startup Edmonton, Technology Alberta, and TMX/TSX Group, who all helped to bring this initiative to life.
Alberta is home to more than 2400 startups, with multiple unicorns and tech businesses with hundreds of employees. As our tech sector continues to mature, recognizing both the individuals and organizations that contribute to Alberta’s tech industry remains vital for our province to attract talent, capital, and enrich our community.
Stay connected, get registered in the Start Alberta database and we hope to see you again for the 2022 Tech Awards.