True innovation isn’t just about expertise and knowledge — it’s about having an unwavering passion to make a difference. Over the past decade, I’ve been fortunate to witness remarkable enthusiasm and drive that Alberta’s entrepreneurs bring to the table. As the Regional Innovation Director for Prairies Canada at the Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN), I have had the privilege to dive headfirst into a world where technology, innovation, and food collide. Alberta’s vibrant innovation ecosystem makes it a fertile ground for ground-breaking advancements, and it is quickly emerging as a Canadian foodtech hub.
Alberta has established itself as a leader in sustainable innovation, backed by a support system that facilitates collaboration between startups, corporate partners, and venture capitalists to drive growth strategies. Particularly, the agri-food, food and beverage, and foodtech sectors in the province have witnessed remarkable achievements in recent years. The dynamic food landscape in Alberta has attracted not only emerging startups but also well-established multinational companies, all recognizing the immense opportunities and making significant investments in the region.
My unwavering passion for the Alberta’s innovation ecosystem stems from recognizing its boundless potential. Working with organizations such as Calgary Economic Development, Prairies Economic Development Canada and now CFIN, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of bringing together diverse perspectives. As an active participant in the ecosystem, I serve as an advocate, connector, funder, and catalyst, consistently pushing the boundaries and spearheading positive change.
At CFIN, my core objective is to foster innovation within the food industry by identifying emerging opportunities, empowering companies to achieve their goals, and nurturing strategic partnerships with key stakeholders. At CFIN, we firmly believe in establishing a robust local presence nationwide, enabling us to offer comprehensive support to our members through in-person engagements and active involvement in regional industry events. Our aim is to drive expansion and enhance competitiveness within the Canadian food sector, elevating its position on the global stage.
The tangible impact of our efforts in Alberta serves as a powerful motivator, propelling me to continually push boundaries to advance foodtech. The food industry holds incredible potential to integrate cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, and I’m determined to be at the forefront of this exciting revolution. Together, we are creating a network of innovation champions who are actively shaping the future of food. By blending creativity, expertise, and an insatiable drive for innovation, we are crafting a future that promises to be exceptionally delightful and delicious.
