Stories of Innovation

INNOVATION Quebec

Concordia-University

THE SECURITY RESEARCH CENTRE (SRC)

The Security Research Centre (SRC) is a comprehensive multidisciplinary training, R&D and innovation unit that provides practical and efficient technological solutions to cybersecurity related problems of the government and industry. The SRC has over 75 cybersecurity researchers, including 55 doctoral and Master thesis students, 20 faculty members, among which six...

INNOVATE™ Estonia

THREOD SYSTEMS

EYES IN THE SKY, PRECISION ON THE GROUND: HOW THREOD’S DRONES ARE CHANGING MODERN WARFARE

Estonia’s quiet high-tech success story is redefining how unmanned aircraft support precision strike missions. When Estonia regained independence three decades ago, few imagined the small Baltic nation would become a center of aerospace innovation. Yet in 2012, a group of engineers and defense specialists in a small village near Tallinn...

INNOVATE® Nashville

Parallel Entrepreneur

How Mark Cleveland Is Redefining Entrepreneurship in Music City

In a city known for breakout artists and bold founders, Mark Cleveland is building something less obvious but no less revolutionary. Through his Parallel Entrepreneur brand – anchored by a podcast, a growing network, and a forthcoming book – Cleveland is giving voice to a specific kind of business leader:...

INNOVATE™ Alberta

Willowglen Systems

The future of Scada technology, SentientQ transforming the future of Automation

Wayne Karpoff, CEO of Willowglen Systems, and his team of Scada rock stars are making innovative improvements to the rail transportation and energy industries. “We reimagined SCADA to meet the needs of the future. And it all started here in Alberta.” — Wayne Karpoff, CEO at Willowglen Systems. Innovation is...

INNOVATE® Washington DMV Edition

VANNADIUM, INC.

Shaping the Future of Data Sovereignty

“We believe in data sovereignty for everybody and that data should be in the control of those originating it.” At the forefront of technological innovation, Vannadium, Inc. is a pioneering DeepTech solution provider committed to redefining data security and sovereignty. Through groundbreaking advancements in Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT),...

INNOVATE™ Estonia

VOON

IS AN ESTONIAN GREENTECH COMPANY THAT HAS SET ITS SIGHTS ON TRANSFORMING A MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEM INTO A SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Co-founded by a young entrepreneur just in her twenties, Eliise Lehtsaar, the company produces biodegradable air filters from waste wool, offering a solution to the staggering figure of nine billion plastic ventilation system filters discarded worldwide each year. For Voon, the goal is straightforward yet compelling: why continue to landfill...

INNOVATE™ Estonia

ÄIO

FROM VISION TO REALITY: THE STORY OF ÄIO

ÄIO (äio tech OÜ) – founded in January 2022 by Nemailla Bonturi (PhD, Brazil) and Petri-Jaan Lahtvee (PhD, Estonia), is not just a startup, spinoff or company — it’s a vision to revolutionize how the world produces fats and oils. How It All Began Nemailla and Petri-Jaan’s journey towards ÄIO...

INNOVATE™ South Africa

STREETSCHOOL - Journeys of Discovery

STREETSCHOOL - Journeys of Discovery -As Humans We Are Still Foraging

As Humans We Are Still Foraging, But Instead Of Turning Over Rocks In Search Of Insects And Nuts, We Are Wanting To Understand It All

Our search for clarity is probably the oldest quest we have. We are forever asking “what must I do”, “why are things the way they are”, and “how could my life be different?” Our deepest motivating force is to make a difference, to experience meaning and live with purpose. We...

INNOVATE™ Toronto

E-ZINC

E-ZINC- “METALLIZING ENERGY” FOR LONG-DURATION STORAGE

"METALLIZING ENERGY” FOR LONG-DURATION STORAGE

e-Zinc is a company based in Toronto, Canada that has developed a breakthrough electrochemical technology for storing energy in zinc metal. This affordable, flexible, and long-duration energy storage solution is positioned to enable the world’s energy markets to be fully powered by renewable energy, enabling a zero-carbon energy future.  ...

INNOVATE® South Carolina

QUERRI

CHARLESTON-BASED AI SOFTWARE COMPANY DISRUPTING DATA CULTURE

In an era where artificial intelligence is reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace, businesses face a crucial dilemma – either harness the power of AI-driven insights or risk being left behind. For too long, the world of data has been dominated by complexity, requiring specialized technical skills that keep decision-makers...

INNOVATE® Washington DMV Edition

Arlington Economic Development

 Beacon of Entrepreneurial Ingenuity

Beacon of Entrepreneurial Ingenuity In a rapidly evolving commercial landscape, Arlington emerges as a shining example of innovation and opportunity. As businesses grapple with shifting dynamics and challenges, Arlington stands as a beacon of confidence and growth. Let us delve into the elements that make Arlington a premier destination for...

Global Innovation Spotlight

The economy of the fandom experience:

Merch, innovation, and sustainability

Everybody’s part of a fandom nowadays, with many people being part of several communities for different musicians, bands, movies, series, and sports teams at the same time. Since many are quite passionate about the fandoms they’re part of, it’s natural that they’d want to wear their interests on their sleeve....

INNOVATE® Washington DMV Edition

Redbrick LMD

Building the Future of Urban Living

Redbrick LMD is reshaping Washington, D.C.’s skyline and redefining urban living. This organization is at the forefront of innovation and sustainability, transforming the region’s real estate development landscape. With a focus on long-term societal trends and a commitment to community, Redbrick is not just constructing buildings; it’s crafting legacies. A...

INNOVATE® South Carolina

Build Carolina

An agile approach: Academy, Apprenticeship, Advisors

Bridging talent, training, and opportunity across the Palmetto State The team at Build Carolina sees possibilities all around. They see massive talent and drive across South Carolina—from individuals eager to build new careers in technology to companies working to innovate and grow. They see a future shaped by meaningful, sustainable...

INNOVATE® Nashville

Finwell

Innovating Access: How Finwell Makes Professional Advice Inclusive

How Finwell Innovates Finwell has reimagined financial advice by removing the traditional barriers that prevent most people from accessing professional, unbiased wealth management and comprehensive financial planning. Unlike firms driven by product sales, Finwell focuses on serving individuals and families often overlooked by traditional wealth managers. By prioritizing education, planning,...

INNOVATE® Milwaukee

MARS SOLUTIONS GROUP

DISCOVERING DIVERSE TALENT THROUGH ALTERNATE PIPELINES

MARS Solutions Group is an award-winning talent solution supplier for information technology (IT), engineering, manufacturing, admin-clerical, healthcare, and professional roles located in Waukesha, WI. Founded by Rashi Arora-Khosla, an accomplished Enterprise Architect, and CEO of MARS Solutions Group, she launched MARS with boot strap capital and grew it organically into...

INNOVATION Quebec

CINTECH AGROALIMENTAIRE

CCTT EN AGROALIMENTAIRE

Chez Cintech agroalimentaire c’est en collectif que nous entendons bien agir. En misant sur l’association des expertises de nos équipes, mais également en nous appuyant sur les savoirfaire spécifiques de chacun de nos clients, nous cherchons à répondre aux nouvelles attentes des consommateurs, plus généralement de la société en matière...

INNOVATION Quebec

THE CENTER FOR FOREST RESEARCH (CFR)

THE CENTER FOR FOREST RESEARCH (CFR) – IS A STRATEGIC CLUSTER THAT HAS BEEN FUNDEDBY THE FONDS DE RECHERCHE DU QUÉBEC-NATURE ET TECHNOLOGIES (FRQNT) SINCE 2006. It is the only research group in Quebec whose central mission is advanced training in forest research. The scientific mission of the CFR is...

INNOVATE® Georgia

R2 LABS

SOLUTIONS ALLOW ANY MODERN SOFTWARE ENGINEER TO CONTROL EQUIPMENT THROUGH CODE ALONE.

R2 Labs builds robotic control and monitoring systems to help companies address skilled worker shortages, increase operational efficiency, and decrease time-to-market for newly introduced equipment. Their disruptive technology and tailor-made turnkey solution development services empower businesses to solve the most demanding robotics applications. HISTORY R2 was founded in 2021 by...

INNOVATE™ Adelaide

BADER AERO

PAVING THE WAY TO FLY GREEN

Bader Aero is revolutionising the way pilots learn and continue to fly by producing advanced zero emissions aircraft. As a proud South Australian based company, Bader Aero is building safe, sustainable and environmentally friendly light aircraft. They are a leader in the fastpaced aviation industry with their light aircraft platforms,...

INNOVATE® Washington DMV Edition

VERSUS - The Rise of a Lifestyle Powerhouse

The Rise of a Lifestyle Powerhouse

VERSUS is a multi-dimensional lifestyle brand rewriting the rules of hospitality, marketing, and venture capital in Washington, D.C. Under the visionary leadership of CEO Vinoda Basnayake, VERSUS has become synonymous with innovation and disruption. This dynamic brand is not just about creating spaces but crafting experiences that resonate deeply with...

INNOVATE™ South Africa

KINGSLEY HOLGATE FOUNDATION

KINGSLEY HOLGATE FOUNDATION -KINGSLEY HOLGATE IS RIGHTFULLY REGARDED AS THE MOST TRAVELLED PERSON IN AFRICA

KINGSLEY HOLGATE IS RIGHTFULLY REGARDED AS THE MOST TRAVELLED PERSON IN AFRICA

Kingsley and his Foundation team have driven across the continent over hundreds of thousands of kilometres through all 54 countries over the last three decades, distributing mosquito bed nets and other much-needed healthcare relief to the remotest parts of the continent. Kingsley isn’t only inspired by adventure: he’s a humanitarian...

INNOVATE® Gaming & Esports

AQUATIK ESPORTS

AQUATIK ESPORTS

CREATING AND FOSTERING A COMMUNITY UNLIKE ANY OTHER!

With a mantra of ‘Esports for Everyone,’ Aquatik Esports is truly unique and has propelled an abrupt tidal wave of followers, fans, and participants spread across multiple channels and touchpoints across the world. By providing approachable spaces, opportunities, and platforms for amateur competitive gamers, creators, and streamers to launch their...

INNOVATE® New Jersey Vol.2

TERRACYCLE

ON A MISSION TO ELIMINATE THE IDEA OF WASTE

TerraCycle is an international leader in innovative sustainability solutions, creating and operating first-of-their-kind platforms in recycling, recycled materials, and reuse. Through collaboration and innovation, we’ve developed the world’s first solutions in everything from recycling to reuse. Businesses, government entities, and consumers work with us globally to keep trash out of...

INNOVATION Quebec

Concordia-University

THE SECURITY RESEARCH CENTRE (SRC)

The Security Research Centre (SRC) is a comprehensive multidisciplinary training, R&D and innovation unit that provides practical and efficient technological solutions to cybersecurity related problems of the government and industry. The SRC has over 75 cybersecurity researchers, including 55 doctoral and Master thesis students, 20 faculty members, among which six...

INNOVATE™ Estonia

THREOD SYSTEMS

EYES IN THE SKY, PRECISION ON THE GROUND: HOW THREOD’S DRONES ARE CHANGING MODERN WARFARE

Estonia’s quiet high-tech success story is redefining how unmanned aircraft support precision strike missions. When Estonia regained independence three decades ago, few imagined the small Baltic nation would become a center of aerospace innovation. Yet in 2012, a group of engineers and defense specialists in a small village near Tallinn...

INNOVATE® Nashville

Parallel Entrepreneur

How Mark Cleveland Is Redefining Entrepreneurship in Music City

In a city known for breakout artists and bold founders, Mark Cleveland is building something less obvious but no less revolutionary. Through his Parallel Entrepreneur brand – anchored by a podcast, a growing network, and a forthcoming book – Cleveland is giving voice to a specific kind of business leader:...

INNOVATE™ Alberta

Willowglen Systems

The future of Scada technology, SentientQ transforming the future of Automation

Wayne Karpoff, CEO of Willowglen Systems, and his team of Scada rock stars are making innovative improvements to the rail transportation and energy industries. “We reimagined SCADA to meet the needs of the future. And it all started here in Alberta.” — Wayne Karpoff, CEO at Willowglen Systems. Innovation is...

INNOVATE® Washington DMV Edition

VANNADIUM, INC.

Shaping the Future of Data Sovereignty

“We believe in data sovereignty for everybody and that data should be in the control of those originating it.” At the forefront of technological innovation, Vannadium, Inc. is a pioneering DeepTech solution provider committed to redefining data security and sovereignty. Through groundbreaking advancements in Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT),...

INNOVATE™ Estonia

VOON

IS AN ESTONIAN GREENTECH COMPANY THAT HAS SET ITS SIGHTS ON TRANSFORMING A MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEM INTO A SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Co-founded by a young entrepreneur just in her twenties, Eliise Lehtsaar, the company produces biodegradable air filters from waste wool, offering a solution to the staggering figure of nine billion plastic ventilation system filters discarded worldwide each year. For Voon, the goal is straightforward yet compelling: why continue to landfill...

INNOVATE™ Estonia

ÄIO

FROM VISION TO REALITY: THE STORY OF ÄIO

ÄIO (äio tech OÜ) – founded in January 2022 by Nemailla Bonturi (PhD, Brazil) and Petri-Jaan Lahtvee (PhD, Estonia), is not just a startup, spinoff or company — it’s a vision to revolutionize how the world produces fats and oils. How It All Began Nemailla and Petri-Jaan’s journey towards ÄIO...

INNOVATE™ South Africa

STREETSCHOOL - Journeys of Discovery

STREETSCHOOL - Journeys of Discovery -As Humans We Are Still Foraging

As Humans We Are Still Foraging, But Instead Of Turning Over Rocks In Search Of Insects And Nuts, We Are Wanting To Understand It All

Our search for clarity is probably the oldest quest we have. We are forever asking “what must I do”, “why are things the way they are”, and “how could my life be different?” Our deepest motivating force is to make a difference, to experience meaning and live with purpose. We...

INNOVATE™ Toronto

E-ZINC

E-ZINC- “METALLIZING ENERGY” FOR LONG-DURATION STORAGE

"METALLIZING ENERGY” FOR LONG-DURATION STORAGE

e-Zinc is a company based in Toronto, Canada that has developed a breakthrough electrochemical technology for storing energy in zinc metal. This affordable, flexible, and long-duration energy storage solution is positioned to enable the world’s energy markets to be fully powered by renewable energy, enabling a zero-carbon energy future.  ...

INNOVATE® South Carolina

QUERRI

CHARLESTON-BASED AI SOFTWARE COMPANY DISRUPTING DATA CULTURE

In an era where artificial intelligence is reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace, businesses face a crucial dilemma – either harness the power of AI-driven insights or risk being left behind. For too long, the world of data has been dominated by complexity, requiring specialized technical skills that keep decision-makers...

INNOVATE® Washington DMV Edition

Arlington Economic Development

 Beacon of Entrepreneurial Ingenuity

Beacon of Entrepreneurial Ingenuity In a rapidly evolving commercial landscape, Arlington emerges as a shining example of innovation and opportunity. As businesses grapple with shifting dynamics and challenges, Arlington stands as a beacon of confidence and growth. Let us delve into the elements that make Arlington a premier destination for...

Global Innovation Spotlight

The economy of the fandom experience:

Merch, innovation, and sustainability

Everybody’s part of a fandom nowadays, with many people being part of several communities for different musicians, bands, movies, series, and sports teams at the same time. Since many are quite passionate about the fandoms they’re part of, it’s natural that they’d want to wear their interests on their sleeve....

INNOVATE® Washington DMV Edition

Redbrick LMD

Building the Future of Urban Living

Redbrick LMD is reshaping Washington, D.C.’s skyline and redefining urban living. This organization is at the forefront of innovation and sustainability, transforming the region’s real estate development landscape. With a focus on long-term societal trends and a commitment to community, Redbrick is not just constructing buildings; it’s crafting legacies. A...

INNOVATE® South Carolina

Build Carolina

An agile approach: Academy, Apprenticeship, Advisors

Bridging talent, training, and opportunity across the Palmetto State The team at Build Carolina sees possibilities all around. They see massive talent and drive across South Carolina—from individuals eager to build new careers in technology to companies working to innovate and grow. They see a future shaped by meaningful, sustainable...

INNOVATE® Nashville

Finwell

Innovating Access: How Finwell Makes Professional Advice Inclusive

How Finwell Innovates Finwell has reimagined financial advice by removing the traditional barriers that prevent most people from accessing professional, unbiased wealth management and comprehensive financial planning. Unlike firms driven by product sales, Finwell focuses on serving individuals and families often overlooked by traditional wealth managers. By prioritizing education, planning,...

INNOVATE® Milwaukee

MARS SOLUTIONS GROUP

DISCOVERING DIVERSE TALENT THROUGH ALTERNATE PIPELINES

MARS Solutions Group is an award-winning talent solution supplier for information technology (IT), engineering, manufacturing, admin-clerical, healthcare, and professional roles located in Waukesha, WI. Founded by Rashi Arora-Khosla, an accomplished Enterprise Architect, and CEO of MARS Solutions Group, she launched MARS with boot strap capital and grew it organically into...

INNOVATION Quebec

CINTECH AGROALIMENTAIRE

CCTT EN AGROALIMENTAIRE

Chez Cintech agroalimentaire c’est en collectif que nous entendons bien agir. En misant sur l’association des expertises de nos équipes, mais également en nous appuyant sur les savoirfaire spécifiques de chacun de nos clients, nous cherchons à répondre aux nouvelles attentes des consommateurs, plus généralement de la société en matière...

INNOVATION Quebec

THE CENTER FOR FOREST RESEARCH (CFR)

THE CENTER FOR FOREST RESEARCH (CFR) – IS A STRATEGIC CLUSTER THAT HAS BEEN FUNDEDBY THE FONDS DE RECHERCHE DU QUÉBEC-NATURE ET TECHNOLOGIES (FRQNT) SINCE 2006. It is the only research group in Quebec whose central mission is advanced training in forest research. The scientific mission of the CFR is...

INNOVATE® Georgia

R2 LABS

SOLUTIONS ALLOW ANY MODERN SOFTWARE ENGINEER TO CONTROL EQUIPMENT THROUGH CODE ALONE.

R2 Labs builds robotic control and monitoring systems to help companies address skilled worker shortages, increase operational efficiency, and decrease time-to-market for newly introduced equipment. Their disruptive technology and tailor-made turnkey solution development services empower businesses to solve the most demanding robotics applications. HISTORY R2 was founded in 2021 by...

INNOVATE™ Adelaide

BADER AERO

PAVING THE WAY TO FLY GREEN

Bader Aero is revolutionising the way pilots learn and continue to fly by producing advanced zero emissions aircraft. As a proud South Australian based company, Bader Aero is building safe, sustainable and environmentally friendly light aircraft. They are a leader in the fastpaced aviation industry with their light aircraft platforms,...

INNOVATE® Washington DMV Edition

VERSUS - The Rise of a Lifestyle Powerhouse

The Rise of a Lifestyle Powerhouse

VERSUS is a multi-dimensional lifestyle brand rewriting the rules of hospitality, marketing, and venture capital in Washington, D.C. Under the visionary leadership of CEO Vinoda Basnayake, VERSUS has become synonymous with innovation and disruption. This dynamic brand is not just about creating spaces but crafting experiences that resonate deeply with...

INNOVATE™ South Africa

KINGSLEY HOLGATE FOUNDATION

KINGSLEY HOLGATE FOUNDATION -KINGSLEY HOLGATE IS RIGHTFULLY REGARDED AS THE MOST TRAVELLED PERSON IN AFRICA

KINGSLEY HOLGATE IS RIGHTFULLY REGARDED AS THE MOST TRAVELLED PERSON IN AFRICA

Kingsley and his Foundation team have driven across the continent over hundreds of thousands of kilometres through all 54 countries over the last three decades, distributing mosquito bed nets and other much-needed healthcare relief to the remotest parts of the continent. Kingsley isn’t only inspired by adventure: he’s a humanitarian...

INNOVATE® Gaming & Esports

AQUATIK ESPORTS

AQUATIK ESPORTS

CREATING AND FOSTERING A COMMUNITY UNLIKE ANY OTHER!

With a mantra of ‘Esports for Everyone,’ Aquatik Esports is truly unique and has propelled an abrupt tidal wave of followers, fans, and participants spread across multiple channels and touchpoints across the world. By providing approachable spaces, opportunities, and platforms for amateur competitive gamers, creators, and streamers to launch their...

INNOVATE® New Jersey Vol.2

TERRACYCLE

ON A MISSION TO ELIMINATE THE IDEA OF WASTE

TerraCycle is an international leader in innovative sustainability solutions, creating and operating first-of-their-kind platforms in recycling, recycled materials, and reuse. Through collaboration and innovation, we’ve developed the world’s first solutions in everything from recycling to reuse. Businesses, government entities, and consumers work with us globally to keep trash out of...

Ecosystems