Stories of Innovation

SharpSpring

SharpSpring - The company

The company, built in Gainesville, is committed to fueling growth and deepening roots in its hometown

When SharpSpring CEO Rick Carlson gets questions about moving his growing tech company to a larger, more metropolitan city, his answer is always the same. “We have no plans to go anywhere. The talent coming out of the university is fueling the emergence of a true tech center in Gainesville,...

INNOVATE® Kansas City

2KC

WHY KC, WHY NOW?

As career goals evolve and remote work becomes the norm, professionals across the country are rethinking where they genuinely want to live and work. For many, that reflection is leading them home—to Kansas City. Once drawn away by the pull of coastal opportunity, they’re now inspired by KC’s rise as...

INNOVATE™ Botswana Vol.1

ACCLAIM EXPRESS

ACCLAIM EXPRESS- IS A TECH START-UP THAT IS FOCUSING ON REVOLUTIONIZING AND TRANSFORMING THE TECH INDUSTRY WITH ITS VIRTUAL MARKETPLACE - ACCLAIM

IS A TECH START-UP THAT IS FOCUSING ON REVOLUTIONIZING AND TRANSFORMING THE TECH INDUSTRY WITH ITS VIRTUAL MARKETPLACE - ACCLAIM

Acclaim will serve as a Virtual Business Environment (VBE) for all small businesses globally. The idea is to take small businesses to the internet and be able to create virtual offices, stalls, and markets which are manageable. This innovation was inspired by the digital transformation of the economy and the...

INNOVATE® Nashville

INSEQUENCE

INSEQUENCE

INDUSTRY LEADER IN AUTOMOTIVE JUST-IN-SEQUENCE MANUFACTURING FOR OVER 25 YEARS

What exactly is innovation? It’s more than a brand new way of thinking, though that is definitely a key part of the equation. Genuine innovation also must have a practical application; that is, be impactfully useful. Sometimes the combination of novel idea and usefulness reach the summit and forge a...

INNOVATE™ Toronto

FOUNDERSBOOST TORONTO

FOUNDERSBOOST TORONTO -PROVES THAT GRASSROOTS EFFORTS CAN DEMOCRATIZE ACCESS TO THE RESOURCES AND RELATIONSHIPS THAT FOUNDERS NEED TO SUCCEED.

PROVES THAT GRASSROOTS EFFORTS CAN DEMOCRATIZE ACCESS TO THE RESOURCES AND RELATIONSHIPS THAT FOUNDERS NEED TO SUCCEED

FoundersBoost Toronto is the city’s only 100% free, not-for-profit preaccelerator program for early-stage founders. We are a volunteer-only organization that runs six-week boot camps that prepare founders for accelerators, investment, and revenue. We take no equity and charge no fees from any of our startups. FoundersBoost Toronto is led by...

INNOVATION Quebec

Centre ACER

Centre ACER- The maple syrup research

The maple syrup research, development and technology transfer center, has been a world leader in innovation for the maple industry since 1998

For nearly 25 years, Centre ACER has been stimulating excellence and supporting the quality and profitability of the maple syrup industry. By combining knowledge and vision, this network of true innovation promotes the influence and international development of the maple industry in Quebec and ensures its sustainability.   Comprised of...

INNOVATE™ South Africa

CINEVATION

CINEVATION -ENTERTAINMENT IS OUR BUSINESS! IT BEGAN WITH A DINNER. AND A DREAM

ENTERTAINMENT IS OUR BUSINESS! IT BEGAN WITH A DINNER. AND A DREAM

Throw in some “What if…” blue sky thinking, a good dollop of youth and passion and Cinevation was born. It was 1997 and cinemas were 35mm which meant advertising took months to produce and was so expensive that it was reserved only for the big guys. Over a glass of...

INNOVATION Quebec

CONNEXION LAURENTIDES

LE MAILLON ESSENTIEL POUR RÉUSSIR SES PROJETS INNOVANTS DANS LES LAURENTIDES

Connexion Laurentides est un organisme à but non lucratif fondé en novembre 2018. En tant qu’Espace d’accélération et de croissance de la grande région des Laurentides, il est piloté depuis ses tout premiers débuts par une équipe dévouée et ses principaux objectifs sont de mobiliser les acteurs de l’écosystème entrepreneurial...

INNOVATE® Milwaukee

7RIVERS

THE CONFLUENCE OF DATA AND STRATEGY

7Rivers is pioneering a path for businesses to navigate the uncharted waters of a new era of technology.With a keen focus on data modernization and artificial intelligence, 7Rivers is not just a technology services company but a leader for organizations ready to embark on a transformative journey, helping solve some...

INNOVATE™ Oeiras

Carolina Almeida Cruz

Carolina Almeida Cruz Co-Founder Of Sapana.org And Entrepreneur @C-More – Beyond The Obvious I believe that I’m going to change the world. I love the sea, my biological family and beyond, my team of leaders of change and above all I belong to the world and the world is mine....

INNOVATE® Washington DMV Edition

RASA

Igniting Culinary Passions

A culinary revolution is brewing in the D.C. area, led by two visionaries, Rahul and Sahil, whose destinies were intertwined by their heritage and an indomitable spirit to redefine Indian cuisine. RASA, their brainchild, emerged from the rich tapestry of their upbringing, deeply rooted in the vibrant flavors and traditions...

INNOVATE® Miami

Crea7ive

Crea7ive - Using Data To Predict User Behavior And Optimize Creativity

Using Data To Predict User Behavior And Optimize Creativity

We are a data-driven creative agency focused on helping brands succeed across multi-cultural markets. From branding and web development to predictive marketing and digital strategy, our portfolio includes global brands such as Wendy’s, Zumba, Kraft, Armani Casa, and Disney. Shortly after arriving in Miami from Argentina in 2005 and while...

INNOVATE® Washington DMV Edition

The Napkin Network

A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION THAT STRIVES TO HELP MOMS IN NEED

Headquartered in DC, the social network of moms spans all 50 states with the help of Lindsay’s specialization in social media, strategic communications, fundraising, and the natural inclination for moms to help other moms in need. Unfortunately, children are expensive and not everyone is in the same position to provide...

Global Innovation Spotlight

DTF Gang Sheet Builder

Where Automation Meets Innovation in Print Tech

“We built this platform to solve real-world challenges print businesses face every day.” In the high-demand world of Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing, time is money—and errors are costly. Enter DTF Gang Sheet Builder, the industry’s most advanced solution for creating gang sheets, developed by Antigro Designer, the Kraków, Poland-based powerhouse behind...

Global Innovation Spotlight

Transforming B2B IT Procurement: Markit’s New Approach to Transparency

Transparency unlocks true value in IT procurement.

In today’s competitive IT procurement landscape, transparency is crucial for optimizing purchasing processes. Markit stands out as a leading platform that champions transparency, simplifying the B2B IT channel for businesses worldwide. With over 10,000 companies—including more than 400 from the Forbes 2000 list—relying on Markit daily, it has become a trusted partner...

INNOVATE™ Toronto

BALANCE

BALANCE -SECURES BILLIONS OF DOLLARS WORTH OF DIGITAL ASSETS

SECURES BILLIONS OF DOLLARS WORTH OF DIGITAL ASSETS

Balance is Canada’s largest digital asset custodian. Our solution powers financial services companies such as over-the-counter trading desks, exchanges, lenders, and ATM networks. The assets are kept secure on specialized hardware, kept fully offline in geographically distributed bank grade vaults that are access controlled, monitored, and guarded 24/7. Our internal...

INNOVATE® Nashville

All American Sitters

Redefining Childcare

In an industry often viewed as a basic necessity rather than a specialized service, All American Sitters has emerged as a true innovator in the world of childcare. Founded by Mrs. Teresa Bowens, a professional with more than two decades of hands-on experience, the company has transformed the way families...

INNOVATE® Austin Volume 2

FIFTHVANTAGE

FIFTHVANTAGE-HOW CAN YOU ACCELERATE YOUR Digital Initiatives?

HOW CAN YOU ACCELERATE YOUR Digital Initiatives?

What’s preventing a company from achieving its innovation and technology goals? How can technology companies accelerate their Digital Initiatives to respond to the 24/7 world? What’s the cost of failure? Matt Domo, Founder and CEO Meet Matt Domo, Founder and CEO helps technology businesses reimagine and re-engineer their technology for...

INNOVATE® Blockchain

LIQUID AVATAR TECHNOLOGIES INC

LIQUID AVATAR TECHNOLOGIES INC-WELCOME TO A UNIVERSE WHERE ANYONE CAN BE A HERO™

WELCOME TO A UNIVERSE WHERE ANYONE CAN BE A HERO™

Want to climb a virtual mountain? Become a master of virtual cooking, or own your own virtual yacht? The Metaverse and other mixed reality opportunities will change the way we play, learn, work, build, entertain and socialize. Aftermath Islands Metaverse is an emerging mixed reality platform that allows individuals and...

INNOVATE® Detroit

Menace Media

A Movement of Creativity, Community, and Change

Menace Media was born in the heart of Detroit, a city built on resilience, creativity, and cultural revolution. More than just a media company, Menace Media is a movement—a platform designed to uplift, empower, and unite creatives, entrepreneurs, and visionaries. What started as a passion project among friends has grown...

INNOVATION Quebec

Agrinova

CCTT IN AGRICULTURE

Agrinova is a college centre for the transfer of technology dedicated to applied research. In partnership with companies and organizations, we conduct concrete research with specific practical objectives tailored to their needs. Since the CCTT was created in 1996, we have carried out more than 1200 research and innovation projects...

Global Innovation Spotlight

The Future of Crypto Payments in E-Commerce

Discover how blockchain innovations, stablecoins, and new regulations are driving crypto adoption by merchants and consumers in e-commerce.

Cryptocurrencies are poised to reshape online retail payments by offering near-instant global transfers and lower fees compared to traditional methods. These advantages appeal to both merchants and consumers: a survey found about 46% of crypto users cite transaction speed and efficiency, and 41% value crypto’s borderless reach. Savvy retailers are...

INNOVATE™ South Africa

FINCLUSION GROUP

WHO ARE THE FINCLUSION GROUP?

FINCLUSION GROUP IS ENHANCING FINANCIAL INCLUSION IN AFRICA BY COMBINING A WORLD-CLASS PRODUCT OFFERING WITH TOP OF THE LINE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCES TO CATER FOR THE NEEDS OF THOSE TRADITIONALLY EXCLUDED FROM THE FORMAL FINANCIAL SECTOR. Finclusion Group is a diverse team of fintech professionals and entrepreneurs. They are passionate about...

INNOVATE® Milwaukee

FINDORFF

TRANSFORMING A SPACE SO IT BETTER BENEFITS THE STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND COMMUNITY

TRANSFORMING A SPACE SO IT BETTER BENEFITS THE STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND COMMUNITY For over a decade, Findorff has been honored to build, reimagine, and renovate various spaces at Marquette University. From smaller and expedited projects to multi-million state-of-the-art facilities, Findorff understands the importance of innovation and deeply appreciates and values...

SharpSpring

SharpSpring - The company

The company, built in Gainesville, is committed to fueling growth and deepening roots in its hometown

When SharpSpring CEO Rick Carlson gets questions about moving his growing tech company to a larger, more metropolitan city, his answer is always the same. “We have no plans to go anywhere. The talent coming out of the university is fueling the emergence of a true tech center in Gainesville,...

INNOVATE® Kansas City

2KC

WHY KC, WHY NOW?

As career goals evolve and remote work becomes the norm, professionals across the country are rethinking where they genuinely want to live and work. For many, that reflection is leading them home—to Kansas City. Once drawn away by the pull of coastal opportunity, they’re now inspired by KC’s rise as...

INNOVATE™ Botswana Vol.1

ACCLAIM EXPRESS

ACCLAIM EXPRESS- IS A TECH START-UP THAT IS FOCUSING ON REVOLUTIONIZING AND TRANSFORMING THE TECH INDUSTRY WITH ITS VIRTUAL MARKETPLACE - ACCLAIM

IS A TECH START-UP THAT IS FOCUSING ON REVOLUTIONIZING AND TRANSFORMING THE TECH INDUSTRY WITH ITS VIRTUAL MARKETPLACE - ACCLAIM

Acclaim will serve as a Virtual Business Environment (VBE) for all small businesses globally. The idea is to take small businesses to the internet and be able to create virtual offices, stalls, and markets which are manageable. This innovation was inspired by the digital transformation of the economy and the...

INNOVATE® Nashville

INSEQUENCE

INSEQUENCE

INDUSTRY LEADER IN AUTOMOTIVE JUST-IN-SEQUENCE MANUFACTURING FOR OVER 25 YEARS

What exactly is innovation? It’s more than a brand new way of thinking, though that is definitely a key part of the equation. Genuine innovation also must have a practical application; that is, be impactfully useful. Sometimes the combination of novel idea and usefulness reach the summit and forge a...

INNOVATE™ Toronto

FOUNDERSBOOST TORONTO

FOUNDERSBOOST TORONTO -PROVES THAT GRASSROOTS EFFORTS CAN DEMOCRATIZE ACCESS TO THE RESOURCES AND RELATIONSHIPS THAT FOUNDERS NEED TO SUCCEED.

PROVES THAT GRASSROOTS EFFORTS CAN DEMOCRATIZE ACCESS TO THE RESOURCES AND RELATIONSHIPS THAT FOUNDERS NEED TO SUCCEED

FoundersBoost Toronto is the city’s only 100% free, not-for-profit preaccelerator program for early-stage founders. We are a volunteer-only organization that runs six-week boot camps that prepare founders for accelerators, investment, and revenue. We take no equity and charge no fees from any of our startups. FoundersBoost Toronto is led by...

INNOVATION Quebec

Centre ACER

Centre ACER- The maple syrup research

The maple syrup research, development and technology transfer center, has been a world leader in innovation for the maple industry since 1998

For nearly 25 years, Centre ACER has been stimulating excellence and supporting the quality and profitability of the maple syrup industry. By combining knowledge and vision, this network of true innovation promotes the influence and international development of the maple industry in Quebec and ensures its sustainability.   Comprised of...

INNOVATE™ South Africa

CINEVATION

CINEVATION -ENTERTAINMENT IS OUR BUSINESS! IT BEGAN WITH A DINNER. AND A DREAM

ENTERTAINMENT IS OUR BUSINESS! IT BEGAN WITH A DINNER. AND A DREAM

Throw in some “What if…” blue sky thinking, a good dollop of youth and passion and Cinevation was born. It was 1997 and cinemas were 35mm which meant advertising took months to produce and was so expensive that it was reserved only for the big guys. Over a glass of...

INNOVATION Quebec

CONNEXION LAURENTIDES

LE MAILLON ESSENTIEL POUR RÉUSSIR SES PROJETS INNOVANTS DANS LES LAURENTIDES

Connexion Laurentides est un organisme à but non lucratif fondé en novembre 2018. En tant qu’Espace d’accélération et de croissance de la grande région des Laurentides, il est piloté depuis ses tout premiers débuts par une équipe dévouée et ses principaux objectifs sont de mobiliser les acteurs de l’écosystème entrepreneurial...

INNOVATE® Milwaukee

7RIVERS

THE CONFLUENCE OF DATA AND STRATEGY

7Rivers is pioneering a path for businesses to navigate the uncharted waters of a new era of technology.With a keen focus on data modernization and artificial intelligence, 7Rivers is not just a technology services company but a leader for organizations ready to embark on a transformative journey, helping solve some...

INNOVATE™ Oeiras

Carolina Almeida Cruz

Carolina Almeida Cruz Co-Founder Of Sapana.org And Entrepreneur @C-More – Beyond The Obvious I believe that I’m going to change the world. I love the sea, my biological family and beyond, my team of leaders of change and above all I belong to the world and the world is mine....

INNOVATE® Washington DMV Edition

RASA

Igniting Culinary Passions

A culinary revolution is brewing in the D.C. area, led by two visionaries, Rahul and Sahil, whose destinies were intertwined by their heritage and an indomitable spirit to redefine Indian cuisine. RASA, their brainchild, emerged from the rich tapestry of their upbringing, deeply rooted in the vibrant flavors and traditions...

INNOVATE® Miami

Crea7ive

Crea7ive - Using Data To Predict User Behavior And Optimize Creativity

Using Data To Predict User Behavior And Optimize Creativity

We are a data-driven creative agency focused on helping brands succeed across multi-cultural markets. From branding and web development to predictive marketing and digital strategy, our portfolio includes global brands such as Wendy’s, Zumba, Kraft, Armani Casa, and Disney. Shortly after arriving in Miami from Argentina in 2005 and while...

INNOVATE® Washington DMV Edition

The Napkin Network

A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION THAT STRIVES TO HELP MOMS IN NEED

Headquartered in DC, the social network of moms spans all 50 states with the help of Lindsay’s specialization in social media, strategic communications, fundraising, and the natural inclination for moms to help other moms in need. Unfortunately, children are expensive and not everyone is in the same position to provide...

Global Innovation Spotlight

DTF Gang Sheet Builder

Where Automation Meets Innovation in Print Tech

“We built this platform to solve real-world challenges print businesses face every day.” In the high-demand world of Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing, time is money—and errors are costly. Enter DTF Gang Sheet Builder, the industry’s most advanced solution for creating gang sheets, developed by Antigro Designer, the Kraków, Poland-based powerhouse behind...

Global Innovation Spotlight

Transforming B2B IT Procurement: Markit’s New Approach to Transparency

Transparency unlocks true value in IT procurement.

In today’s competitive IT procurement landscape, transparency is crucial for optimizing purchasing processes. Markit stands out as a leading platform that champions transparency, simplifying the B2B IT channel for businesses worldwide. With over 10,000 companies—including more than 400 from the Forbes 2000 list—relying on Markit daily, it has become a trusted partner...

INNOVATE™ Toronto

BALANCE

BALANCE -SECURES BILLIONS OF DOLLARS WORTH OF DIGITAL ASSETS

SECURES BILLIONS OF DOLLARS WORTH OF DIGITAL ASSETS

Balance is Canada’s largest digital asset custodian. Our solution powers financial services companies such as over-the-counter trading desks, exchanges, lenders, and ATM networks. The assets are kept secure on specialized hardware, kept fully offline in geographically distributed bank grade vaults that are access controlled, monitored, and guarded 24/7. Our internal...

INNOVATE® Nashville

All American Sitters

Redefining Childcare

In an industry often viewed as a basic necessity rather than a specialized service, All American Sitters has emerged as a true innovator in the world of childcare. Founded by Mrs. Teresa Bowens, a professional with more than two decades of hands-on experience, the company has transformed the way families...

INNOVATE® Austin Volume 2

FIFTHVANTAGE

FIFTHVANTAGE-HOW CAN YOU ACCELERATE YOUR Digital Initiatives?

HOW CAN YOU ACCELERATE YOUR Digital Initiatives?

What’s preventing a company from achieving its innovation and technology goals? How can technology companies accelerate their Digital Initiatives to respond to the 24/7 world? What’s the cost of failure? Matt Domo, Founder and CEO Meet Matt Domo, Founder and CEO helps technology businesses reimagine and re-engineer their technology for...

INNOVATE® Blockchain

LIQUID AVATAR TECHNOLOGIES INC

LIQUID AVATAR TECHNOLOGIES INC-WELCOME TO A UNIVERSE WHERE ANYONE CAN BE A HERO™

WELCOME TO A UNIVERSE WHERE ANYONE CAN BE A HERO™

Want to climb a virtual mountain? Become a master of virtual cooking, or own your own virtual yacht? The Metaverse and other mixed reality opportunities will change the way we play, learn, work, build, entertain and socialize. Aftermath Islands Metaverse is an emerging mixed reality platform that allows individuals and...

INNOVATE® Detroit

Menace Media

A Movement of Creativity, Community, and Change

Menace Media was born in the heart of Detroit, a city built on resilience, creativity, and cultural revolution. More than just a media company, Menace Media is a movement—a platform designed to uplift, empower, and unite creatives, entrepreneurs, and visionaries. What started as a passion project among friends has grown...

INNOVATION Quebec

Agrinova

CCTT IN AGRICULTURE

Agrinova is a college centre for the transfer of technology dedicated to applied research. In partnership with companies and organizations, we conduct concrete research with specific practical objectives tailored to their needs. Since the CCTT was created in 1996, we have carried out more than 1200 research and innovation projects...

Global Innovation Spotlight

The Future of Crypto Payments in E-Commerce

Discover how blockchain innovations, stablecoins, and new regulations are driving crypto adoption by merchants and consumers in e-commerce.

Cryptocurrencies are poised to reshape online retail payments by offering near-instant global transfers and lower fees compared to traditional methods. These advantages appeal to both merchants and consumers: a survey found about 46% of crypto users cite transaction speed and efficiency, and 41% value crypto’s borderless reach. Savvy retailers are...

INNOVATE™ South Africa

FINCLUSION GROUP

WHO ARE THE FINCLUSION GROUP?

FINCLUSION GROUP IS ENHANCING FINANCIAL INCLUSION IN AFRICA BY COMBINING A WORLD-CLASS PRODUCT OFFERING WITH TOP OF THE LINE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCES TO CATER FOR THE NEEDS OF THOSE TRADITIONALLY EXCLUDED FROM THE FORMAL FINANCIAL SECTOR. Finclusion Group is a diverse team of fintech professionals and entrepreneurs. They are passionate about...

INNOVATE® Milwaukee

FINDORFF

TRANSFORMING A SPACE SO IT BETTER BENEFITS THE STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND COMMUNITY

TRANSFORMING A SPACE SO IT BETTER BENEFITS THE STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND COMMUNITY For over a decade, Findorff has been honored to build, reimagine, and renovate various spaces at Marquette University. From smaller and expedited projects to multi-million state-of-the-art facilities, Findorff understands the importance of innovation and deeply appreciates and values...

Ecosystems