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DMZ’s Year in review: Coffee, capital and community

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DMZ’s Year in review: Coffee, capital and community

The stats are in! Let’s take a look at our feats this past year.

After an eventful 2022, the DMZ is taking a step back to appreciate all we’ve accomplished this year alongside our community and supporters — from onboarding startups to launching new programming and international expansion.

Scroll and reminisce with us!
Note: These are stats as of November 1, 2022.

Our coffee machine is one of the most popular amenities at the DMZ! It’s clearly a community favourite, with an estimated 10,438 coffees made in 2022.

Up, up, up, and away — startup fundraising numbers surged to a whopping $258,672,261 this year!


That’s right — six DMZ companies were acquired in 2022 (Sensibill, Gridcure, GrowthGenuis, InkBox, Fortuna, OnCall), and three acquisitions were made by DMZ companies: Singlekey acquired Naborly, Manzil acquired Muslim Will, and Daylight Automation (formerly known as FormHero) acquired Proof Data Technology.

Start spreading the news! In October 2022, The DMZ re-opened in New York City — a tech ecosystem valued at $147 billion — to continue empowering the next generation of global startups.

Let’s network! In 2022, the DMZ brought together over 1500 attendees in 40+ events in the tech ecosystem.

Our community had a ton of media traction over the past year. The DMZ had 2.39K+ features in the media, and our DMZ startups had an enormous media presence with 36k+ highlights.

Startups come and go at the DMZ, but they always leave an imprint in our community. This year, 357 startups graduated from DMZ programs, including Startup Certified (38 students), Basecamp (22 companies), NEP (27 companies), Launchpad (86 students), Incubator (8 companies), AMEX Blueprint (100 companies), Pre-Incubator (45 companies) and BIP Connections (31 companies).

The DMZ stays busy! This year, we ran programming for multiple existing programs: BIP Social Impact Stream fuelled by Unilever Canada, Black Innovation Connections with Dream Legacy Foundation, Launchpad for Entrepreneurs powered by Desjardins and AMEX Blueprint powered by the DMZ.

In addition, we housed the launch of the Newcomer Entrepreneurship Program (NEP) — a virtual ideation program sponsored by the Future Skills Centre and media sponsored by Canadian Business that helps Canadian newcomers develop startup fundamentals. We also partnered with Toronto-based venture capital firm GroundBreak Ventures to launch our PropTech stream as part of our incubator program to help high-potential PropTech startups transform the real estate landscape.

There’s a reason we’re known as a world-leading tech incubator. This year we received over 812 global applications. We’ve still got it.

What a year! Want to take part in 2023’s stats? Discover the DMZ and our programming here. Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to get the latest tech news, updates, and special offers.

The DMZ’s top ten tech Twitter accounts to follow

Ready to give your Twitter feed a transformation? Want to stay in the loop on events, news, and insider tips and tricks?

The DMZ has created a curated list of people and organizations to keep tabs on, whether you’re looking for bite-sized updates or advice on which market to break into next. After all, success is often about who you know – or in this case, who you follow.

1. Tech Crunch | @TechCrunch

You’ve probably heard of it before, and for good reason. Tech Crunch is one of the leading platforms for technology-related updates catered to founders and startups. Here you can find real-time breaking news and insightful analysis from the best in Silicon Valley and around the world.

Disney strikes a big adtech deal with The Trade Desk as Disney+ expands into ads https://t.co/VmkYeLdqnM by @laurenforristal

— TechCrunch (@TechCrunch) July 12, 2022

2. BetaKit | @BetaKit

The only independent tech innovation publication in Canada, BetaKit aims to report on the people involved in building the next generation of Canadian tech companies. Through their account, you can be the first to read new stories and get job opportunities delivered right to your Twitter feed, or email inbox if you’re subscribed to their weekly newsletter.

Small and medium-sized businesses may not have deep pockets but they might be surprised to know that a few basic tools and protocols can successfully mitigate 99 percent of cyber attacks. https://t.co/NhCylQRqFE

— BetaKit (@BetaKit) July 11, 2022

3. Emily Chang | @emilychangtv

Emily Chang is a prominent face in tech journalism. As the anchor and executive producer of Bloomberg Technology, you can find some of the biggest news stories in the tech world on her account, along with snippets of interviews she holds with leading executives, entrepreneurs and investors.

If you watch one thing about the Google/AI/feelings debate, watch this 10 mins with @mmitchell_ai re: Blake Lemoine aka @cajundiscordian

Full convo: https://t.co/wMArRzf16O https://t.co/D8PMsnBT5t

— Emily Chang (@emilychangtv) June 18, 2022

4. Business Insider Tech | @BITech

Popular news outlet Insider has a specific account dedicated just to their articles related to tech. Their slogan “What you wanna know” speaks for itself – with updates on major events and relevant and unique industry trends and analyses that you probably won’t find on other tech media giants.

Bill Gates’ VC fund and Intidex just led a $30 million round into Circ, a startup that slashes emissions from fast fashion. Check out the 11-slide pitch deck it used to raise the funds. https://t.co/ZAPEA8x34P

— Business Insider Tech (@BITech) July 12, 2022

5. The Next Web | @thenextweb

Based in Amsterdam, The Next Web is a tech Twitter staple that has been updating its followers on a variety of sub-sectors within the industry, with news from North America, the EU and so much more. Their occasional job postings and TECH TIP OF THE DAY guarantee that you can use their resources and put them to use.

It’s the ultimate fight between hackers and mathematicians, and the future is at stake https://t.co/SP4BqnbPMD

— TNW (@thenextweb) July 12, 2022

6. Anil Dash | @anildash

Anil Dash is the founder of Glitch, a coder community platform that promotes co-collaboration. Outside his day job, however, is when he adds the top tech stories – and sometimes pop culture – from various outlets to your timeline. You can expect some light-hearted personal anecdotes and interactions with others in the community.

The fundamental flaw of most social platforms is a tech mindset that thinks the hard part is managing content, when the hard part is actually managing discontent.

— Anil (@anildash) July 15, 2022

7. WIRED | @WIRED

Tech veteran WIRED is many people’s go-to for up-and-coming technologies affecting any sector, whether it be culture, politics, or the economy. Get immediate delivery of their newest articles to your feed and read up on your daily commutes or breaks. Chances are someone else in the room is doing the same.

Daylight provides debit cards with your chosen name, no matter what your ID says. (From 2021) https://t.co/bU6xuBQ7J8

— WIRED (@WIRED) July 12, 2022

8. The Verge | @verge

The Verge is a multimedia platform that treats technology as the centrepiece of culture as they report on technologies changing future life in media, transportation, and science. Add The Verge to your daily news check-ups and get interesting updates that you can be the first to know about among friends and co-workers.

What if we could look into the future and see how technology will change everything — from raising pets and houseplants to how we dress, eat, date, and even how we die. Our new docuseries The Future Of is premiering on @Netflix on June 21st pic.twitter.com/h3cAgqo7Tp

— The Verge (@verge) June 13, 2022

9. Arati Sharma | @aratisharma

If you’re looking for first-hand opinions and anecdotes from someone who knows what they’re talking about, give Arati Sharma – ex-Shopify executive’s – account a quick follow. Not only are you signing up for updates from a professional and a founder (Backbone Angels), but you also get some engaging and thought-provoking tweets about BIPOC and women-founded businesses.

“More than half of South Asian women in Canada are planning to leave their jobs, study reveals”… well that’s an alarming stat. https://t.co/TVpdeYTYOp

— Arati Sharma (@aratisharma) April 20, 2022

10. The DMZ | @TheDMZ

Forgive the shameless plug, but our own DMZ Twitter account can help you stay connected to a community of entrepreneurs and stay up to date with new events, programs and news on Toronto’s and the rest of the world’s startup ecosystems. This is where you can start implementing your ideas and connect with experts.

.@FredVanVleet is helping us spread the word that Blueprint: Backing BIPOC Businesses is back! Powered by @theDMZ, the mentorship & grant program designed to support the advancement of BIPOC businesses. Applications close on July 26, 2022. Eligibility criteria & terms apply.

— Amex Canada (@AmexCanada) June 14, 2022

Looking to turn your newfound knowledge into action? Check out our programming and take your first steps to success.

2022 federal budget digest

How the 2022 federal budget will impact the startup and innovation economy.


Last week, the federal government unveiled their long-awaited budget for 2022, which outlines a number of commitments for the Canadian tech and innovation economy.

The first budget since the Liberal’s re-election last fall, the 2022 budget focuses on growing the Canadian economy while aiming to make everyday life more affordable. Working to reduce its projected deficit, a majority of the government’s new commitments are program-focused, rather than large cash injections. 

We thought we would help out our community by breaking down the budget to highlight what should be on your radar, and how it will impact the startup and innovation economy.

The full federal budget can be found here.

AN OVERVIEW: BIG TICKET COMMITMENTS

  • Canadian Innovation and Investment Agency: $1 billion over five years towards the creation of a new agency designed to invest in innovation, research, and development. 
  • Canada Growth Fund: A $15 billion growth fund to encourage private sector investment to meet net-zero climate goals and strengthen supply chains.
  • Intellectual property: $96.6 million over five years to build a world-class intellectual property regime, by building on previous investments.
  • Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED): A review of SR&ED to eliminate paperwork needed for the program for startups. 
  • Accelerator to increase housing supply: Accelerator fund to encourage municipal governments to zone for more housing over the next five years. 
  • Dental-care and pharmacare: Plans to cover the cost of dental care for lower income Canadians and plans to create a national pharmacare program. 

INNOVATION INVESTMENTS

A new Canada Growth Fund to encourage private sector investment to meet net-zero climate goals and strengthen supply chains.

  • $15 billion in public capital over five years designed to incentivize private-sector investment in emissions reduction, economic diversification and supply-chain projects. The new program will  run at arm’s length from the government. It will make investments in businesses in firms for equity stakes, loan them money or issue financing guarantees. 

A new Canadian Innovation and Investment Agency to invest in innovation, research, and development.

  • The new agency, modelled after programs in Finland and Israel, will operate independently and will be funded with $1-billion in new spending over five years. Moreover, the government will consult further with Canadian and global experts in finalizing the design and mandate of the new agency. Furthers details will be announced in the 2022 fall economic and fiscal update.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

The government has committed more investment into Canada’s national IP initiatives, including:  

  • A new national lab-to-market platform to help graduate students and researchers take their work to market;
  • Investment for the CanExport program to help Canadian businesses secure their intellectual property in foreign markets;
  • A new survey to assess the government’s previous investments in science and research, and how knowledge created at post-secondary institutions generates commercial outcomes;
  • Expanding ExploreIP, Canada’s intellectual property marketplace, so that more public sector intellectual property is put to use helping Canadian businesses; and,
  • Expanding the Intellectual Property Legal Clinics Program, which will make it easier to access basic intellectual property services.

SR&ED REVIEW FOR STARTUPS

A review of the scientific research and experimental development (SR&ED) tax incentive, assessing whether it’s effective in encouraging R&D that benefits Canada will be done. Additionally, the government is considering instituting a patent-box regime to ensure ideas generated domestically turn into IP that stays here.

  • Startups have long complained about the amount of paperwork involved with accessing SR&ED, and the assessment could translate to startups receiving higher payouts from SR&ED, or at least less paperwork to complete. 

SUPERCLUSTERS REBRAND

The federal government is extending Canada’s Superclusters and is rebranding it to be called Canada’s Global Innovation Clusters. The budget proposes an additional $750 million into the program over six years. 

  • The Superclusters was originally created to focus on projects leveraging plant proteins, advanced manufacturing, AI and oceans. With the rebrand, the government hopes to see the Global Innovation Clusters play a role in greater projects, such as climate change.

TAX RATE EXTENSIONS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

Taxable capital for small businesses is increasing from $15 million to $50 million. 

  • Currently, the government taxes small businesses at a reduced rate of 9% on the first $500,000 of taxable income. However, small businesses lose the reduced rate once they hit $15 million. The new budget plans to increase the taxable income limit to $50 million. 

SUPPORT FOR SMALL BUSINESSES IN HEALTH TECH 

$30 million was committed to expand the CAN Health Network, which is a national partnership comprised of leading Canadian health organizations that work to introduce new solutions into the health care system. 

  • The government hopes to expand the program nationally to Quebec, the territories, and Indigenous communities.
Are you a founder trying to navigate the startup ecosystem? Learn more about programming the DMZ offers here.

Third photo: piggybank.ca

CanHack’s impact: Inspiring Canada’s next generation of cybersecurity experts

6,156 students, 400+ highschools, $31,000 in cash prizes and counting.


Cybersecurity competition for high school students
In 2018, we teamed up with the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) to foster the next generation of cybersecurity experts by launching CanHack. A competition for high school students, we’ve created meaningful learning opportunities for students across Canada looking to sink their teeth into cybersecurity. 

Throughout the cybersecurity challenge, students get the chance to tackle real cybersecurity challenges, learn critical computer security skills, work with experts in the field, explore an in-demand field and win cash prizes. 

As we all know, cybersecurity matters more now than ever before. We leaned on technology to keep us going through the pandemic – both personally and for business – and have become increasingly vulnerable to cyber attacks as a result.

Ensuring a cybersafe future is crucial, and it starts with investing in a future workforce that understands the fundamentals of cybersecurity and privacy.

Young Black students coding - cybersecurity competition for high school students

Together, the DMZ and RBC have ignited an interest in cybersecurity for high school students across Canada at a critical stage in their education. We’re committed to helping students dive deeper into the world of cybersecurity to empower the future of the cybersecurity workforce. 

To mark our fourth CanHack competition, we decided to take a walk down memory lane to highlight CanHack’s achievements to date.

CanHack’s impact over the years 

Since its launch 5 years ago, CanHack has already:Supported 6,156 high school students that have made up 1,567 teams from 400+ highschools and community organizations. Administered 24 workshops with inspiring cybersecurity leaders for students to get hands-on training and support. Supported 1,016 women-identifying participants, empowering them to lead the way in tech. Given out over $31,000 in prize money to Canadian students and schools
Thanks to RBC’s committed support, CanHack plans to reach even more students this year, helping them to dive deeper into the world of cybersecurity. Registrations for CanHack 2022 have officially launched and the competition will run from March 15th to March 29th.

For high school students looking to gain knowledge in cybersecurity and computer science and explore the career possibilities in the growing sectors, click here for more information and register today!

Spotlighting BIP mentors: The impact mentorship has on your business growth trajectory

Hear from four DMZ BIP mentors on what it’s like to work with early-stage social impact businesses, and the top advice they offer founders


Mentors can be some of the most important people that accompany you on your business journey, and can play an influential role in the success of your business. 

Generally, the most effective business mentors possess similar characteristics: they provide constructive feedback, they’re approachable, and they’re willing to listen. 

But perhaps most importantly, good mentors have had real-life business experiences full of trials and errors, allowing them to provide new entrepreneurs with unique perspectives when growing a business.


More about the BIP Social Impact Stream

Last year, Unilever Canada and the DMZ launched the inaugural cohort for the Black Innovation Program’s (BIP) Social Impact Stream: a 6-month business incubator program designed to support Black entrepreneurs with a social mission. 

The program allows entrepreneurs to tap into lucrative industry connections and growth resources, which includes getting access to mentors from a diverse range of backgrounds and industries.

Whether it’s offering business advice to new founders or providing personal development guidance to entrepreneurs, our mentors have equipped socially-driven organizations with the counsel needed to generate company growth while accelerating their ability to create meaningful change and contribute to their core mission.

Today, the spotlight is on our program mentors. Hear how these leaders play a vital role in the success of founders in the BIP Social Impact Stream.


Shared learnings from mentors support progress

Mentor - Steve EhounouSteve Ehounou, Partner at MNP’s Assurance Services, specializes in advising other entrepreneurs on accounting, finances, tax and delivering business advisory services. His main goal is to help them optimize their financial activities to execute their business plans.

“I have met some very talented entrepreneurs through this program. I’m impressed to see the level of sophistication and proactiveness in the way they address existential needs and issues within our community,” he says.  

Steve says that mentorship is key in entrepreneurial undertakings. “The business environment is complex. The share of knowledge, failures and success experienced by mentors is an important ingredient in preparing the success of new entrepreneurs.” 

Steve says advice he gives founders is to “build a trusted team around you that meets your strengths and makes up for your weaknesses.” He also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging personal failures and using them as an opportunity to bounce back and grow stronger.

“The business environment is complex. The share of knowledge, failures and success experienced by mentors is an important ingredient in preparing the success of new entrepreneurs.” 

Mentors provide a completely unique perspective 

Mentor - Natoya AbiolaNatoya Abiola, Founder of Zenwork Wellness Solutions, advises founders on customer discovery, storytelling and go-to-market strategy. She has found in her personal experience that founders often overlook the importance of these areas, but firmly believes they are crucial to any startup.

“My experience as a mentor has been eye-opening and rewarding. I am inspired by the works of the founders who consider themselves ‘regular people’, yet are bravely tackling challenges like hunger, poverty, inequality, and responsible consumption within their communities.”

Natoya encourages early-stage entrepreneurs to pick up the phone and call potential customers to understand the challenges they face. “This is the best way to tailor your solution to deliver value,” she explains. 

Although startups may face rejections, Natoya adds it’s a great way to develop leads. “Founders must become intimate with the problem they are solving to render the best solution. The best way of understanding these pain points is to speak directly to the people affected.

“My experience as a mentor has been eye-opening and rewarding. I am inspired by the works of the founders who consider themselves ‘regular people’, yet are bravely tackling challenges like hunger, poverty, inequality, and responsible consumption within their communities.”

Leverage the experience and connections of your mentors

Mentor Eric InEric In, Director of Investments at Dragonfly Ventures, specializes in technology, renewable energy, tourism and hospitality, and food e-commerce. He advises founders from early-stage to late-stage on strategy, fundraising, risks and challenges related to growth.

“It’s a pleasure to connect with my mentee. We have exciting and passionate discussions about connections to potential partners and investors, comparable initiatives, and how we can impact food waste and food insecurity” Eric says.

Eric highlights the importance for Black founders to have access to a community of mentors to thrive. “I truly believe that the success of founders is amplified when building strong relationships with experienced people who can help test ideas, and provide advice and connections when needed.”

“This is even more true for Black founders who may not have been given the same connections and level of access to advisors and experienced mentors.”

Eric says that the best piece of advice a founder can equip themselves with is, “surround yourself with people who are knowledgeable in fields you cannot leverage, people who are well-connected, and people who align with your mission and values!”

 

“I truly believe that the success of founders is amplified when building strong relationships with experienced people who can help test ideas, and provide advice and connections when needed.”

Mentors can be your best asset

Mentor Baba AjayiBaba Ajayi, Founder of Andie, specializes in product launch, business plan development, and sales strategy.

“My experience as a mentor with the BIP Social Impact Stream has been fantastic,” Baba says. 

“Jesina Studios, the company I was advising, is working on something near and dear to my heart in terms of providing support to new immigrants and refugee women. Sam and Lexi, the founders of Jesina Studios, have a remarkable story and vision for the business.”

Baba explains the best piece of business advice he’s received is as follows: “The only thing that matters is making things happen at the beginning. You don’t want to get yourself bogged down in tasks that don’t deliver an actionable result. If it’s a product, launch it. If it’s an app, launch it. See what happens.”

When asked about the importance of providing Black founders with access to a mentorship community, Baba emphasizes that such an asset is absolutely crucial to any startup or new business. 

“It is especially crucial for Black founders. They are often short on resources, and the room for mistakes is very small. That’s the role mentors play.”

“The only thing that matters is making things happen at the beginning. You don’t want to get yourself bogged down in tasks that don’t deliver an actionable result. If it’s a product, launch it. If it’s an app, launch it. See what happens.”

Interested in learning more about BIP Mentors and the Social Impact Stream fuelled by Unilever Canada? Read more here.

How the DMZ is making it possible for founders from anywhere around the world to start and build a global business

5 continents, 40 countries, 1000 startups and growing…


While the DMZ’s roots may have originated in the heart of downtown Toronto, our presence today is felt
globally

We’ve transformed into an international powerhouse by revolutionizing the global startup ecosystem and empowering our startups to break into global markets and produce results worldwide.

So, how exactly have we created our international ecosystem of DMZ-powered hubs? 

We’re glad you asked. 

By championing global collaboration, we have created a vast network of satellite offices and international partnerships. 

Today, entrepreneurs from around the world have the ability to access DMZ programming, but with the networks that have a deep understanding of their local ecosystem, country and economy.  

When asked to raise the bar, the DMZ didn’t just think bigger — we thought global.  

DMZ programming is making it possible for any entrepreneur from anywhere around the world to start a business. We have had the privilege of supporting founders, and the trailblazers who support them from over 40 countries, including Egypt, the United States, Haiti, Brazil, Czech, Turkey, England, China and much more. 

We recently caught up with some of our founders from around the world to learn more about their local ecosystem and how the DMZ community is helping them reach global success. 

AMMAN, JORDAN

The DMZ supports programming for women entrepreneurs for Jordan’s Company Start-Up Program, which provides university and college students with hands-on experience and practical training in business and product development and management. 

Luma Al Adnani is the CEO and Co-Founder of Adam Wa Mishmish, an educational cartoon created for children to learn and love the Arabic language. A graduate of the DMZ’s ‘Launching Economic Achievement Project for Women in Jordan’ and the DMZ’s Pre-Incubator — Adam Wa Mishmish is currently a DMZ Incubator company, signalling its significant growth these past few years.

Luma Al Adnani. CEO and Co-Founder of Adam Wa Mishmish

From day one, Adam Wa Mishmish has been an international business. With arabic-speaking people all over the world, those living outside of the Middle East are Adam wa Mishmish’s target users.  

Luma explains that a majority of the startups in the Middle East strive to make it on the global stage, and being accepted into DMZ’s Incubator program was a dream come true for the company. 

“Limiting oneself to one ecosystem, city, country or region is a disservice. Our team is thrilled to be a part of the Incubator program, as it will allow us to better understand our target markets. 

The DMZ team and mentors have opened us up to entirely new ideas. With their help, we’ve been able to organize ourselves, set goals and achieve them. We know we are better equipped to handle whatever the future holds in store for us, and achieve global success.”

“Limiting oneself to one ecosystem, city, country or region is a disservice. Our team is thrilled to be a part of the Incubator program, as it will allow us to better understand our target markets.”

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM

Zone Startups Vietnam operates under DMZ Ventures and is an international startup accelerator program empowering Vietnam’s tech leaders.

Anthony Ho is based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and is the Founder and CEO of EI Industrial, Vietnam’s first B2B e-commerce platform for construction. 

After living abroad and working for multinational tech companies, Anthony realized Vietnam had what it takes to be a competitive tech ecosystem and was determined to contribute to the country’s technological revolution. 

Anthony Ho, Founder and CEO of EI Industrial

Vietnam’s startup ecosystem has only recently begun to flourish. Anthony highlights that 5 years ago, there was no mention of startups in the business world — the ecosystem was nonexistent. 

“Today, it’s a different story. The startup ecosystem has developed quickly, with various organizations looking to boost the startup community. We’re really beginning to thrive, as more and more Vietnamese startups achieve success.” 

Anthony stresses the importance of harnessing a global mindset as an entrepreneur, and credits the DMZ community for helping him expand his network and connecting him with international and regional venture capitalists to help fuel his company. 

“I joined the DMZ community in July of 2020, after a business model restructuring. I can confidently say that without this community, I would not be where I am today with my business — and for that, I’m grateful.”

 

INNISFIL, ONTARIO

In partnership with the town of Innisfil, DMZ Innisfil is a collaborative program designed to help entrepreneurs succeed personally and professionally.

The Co-Founder and CEO of Opsware, Peter Barbosa has a proven track record as a serial entrepreneur and specializes in regulatory technology and data privacy. His company, Opsware, is a no-code data privacy technology platform built for modern enterprises. 

Peter Barbosa, Co-Founder and CEO of Opsware

Peter highlights that data privacy is a global problem companies are trying to tackle. Although laws typically emerge at a state or federal level, a new wave of emerging privacy laws will apply to companies around the world.

“By 2023, 65% of the world’s population will be covered by modern data privacy laws. That’s up from 25% today.”

Peter attributes Opsware’s global presence to DMZ Innisfil’s support. “Working with Jelmer Stegink and the broader DMZ team really helped us improve our pitch, and gave us a network of like-minded entrepreneurs who are also driven to have a global reach.”

“Working with Jelmer Stegink and the broader DMZ team really helped us improve our pitch, and gave us a network of like-minded entrepreneurs who are also driven to have a global reach.”

 

MUMBAI, INDIA

Operating under DMZ Ventures, Zone Startups India is a partnership with the Bombay Stock Exchange in Mumbai focused on startups operating in a variety of industries. 

Sonam Srivastava is the Founder of Wright Research,  an investment advisory and research firm that uses quantitative research and machine learning to create stable investment options that generate consistent profit in all markets. Featured in the Association of International Wealth Management of India’s top 100 women in finance, Sonam is passionate about quantitative investment management. 

Sonam Srivastava, Founder of Wright Research

The investment space in India is being revolutionized through AI and quantitative research efforts. Located in the financial capital of India, Wright plans to leverage the recent growth in capital markets to go above and beyond for their consumers.

Sonam strives to create products with global audiences in mind at Wright, and plans to collaborate with global investors in AI. 

“I think the opportunities for quantitative research are endless, and there is a global market to tap into.”

With the support of Zone Startup India, Wright has been able to expand their business by acquiring new licences. “We’ve gained a lot from the mentorship and community at Zone Startups India – their guidance has helped make our lives easy.”

 

SOUTH KOREA

The DMZ supports the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), helping the next generation of South Korean entrepreneurs. Designed by the DMZ, their 12-week program supports entrepreneurs’ soft-landing in the Canadian market.

Hobin Kim is the Founder and CEO of Ationlab, a lifestyle design company committed to social impact missions and supporting sustainable projects. 

Hobin Kim, Founder and CEO of Ationlab
Hobin Kim, Founder and CEO of Ationlab

Ationlab was first introduced to the DMZ through KOTRA’s AI Open Innovation program in 2020. Hobin explains that the program provided him with an inside look at what entering the Canadian market would entail. 

“Risk management is a must for all businesses, and entering new markets through trusted institutions, like the DMZ and KOTRA, reduces potential risk drastically and allows founders to find suitable markets.”  

Hobin highlights that the DMZ provides a strong community of mentors, helping international startups break into the North American market. 

“The DMZ allowed us to tap into a community of great business professionals, such as their Entrepreneurs-in-Residence and DMZ staff! Startups seeking global success are equipped with essential business programming in areas such as business strategy, marketing, and pitching — everything a startup needs to enter the North American market.”

“The DMZ allowed us to tap into a community of great business professionals, such as their Entrepreneurs-in-Residence and DMZ staff! Startups seeking global success are equipped with essential business programming in areas such as business strategy, marketing, and pitching — everything a startup needs to enter the North American market.”

TOKYO, JAPAN

Powered by the DMZ, Landing Pad Tokyo is accelerating the capabilities of Japan’s top innovators and helping companies lead digital transformation in the manufacturing sector.

Shin Takeuchi is based in Tokyo, Japan and is the CEO of Nissin Inc, a manufacturing company that makes and sells production equipment using plasma and power supply technology. 

Shin Takeuchi, CEO of Nissin Inc
Shin Takeuchi, CEO of Nissin Inc

As new business models begin to emerge in Japan as a result of COVID-19 and information technology becomes a necessity, the sale of semiconductors and telecommunications devices have skyrocketed in the country. 

While Takeuchi explains this has been great for business, he also highlights how supply chain problems are beginning to arise.  “Our next generation of entrepreneurs will need to step up and put forth innovative solutions to keep up with the demand of device manufacturing.”  

With digital transformation accelerating at lightning speed, gone are the days where businesses can focus on a single market. 

Takeuchi emphasizes that operating with a global mindset is imperative, especially as we begin to look past the pandemic. 

“Borders are beginning to fade, and with widespread access to the internet, businesses need to think bigger. Being a part of the DMZ community has opened up several doors for us, as we’ve been able to connect with Canadian startups to share lessons learned and gain valuable market insights.”

“Borders are beginning to fade, and with widespread access to the internet, businesses need to think bigger. Being a part of the DMZ community has opened up several doors for us, as we’ve been able to connect with Canadian startups to share lessons learned and gain valuable market insights.”

 

Want to know if there’s a DMZ-powered hub in your region?
Learn more about the DMZ’s global footprint at
dmz.to/Global

2021 federal and provincial budget digests

How the 2021 federal and provincial budgets impact small businesses and startups

This past month, the federal and provincial government unveiled their long-awaited budgets. With both plans focusing on keeping citizens safe and healthy and kick starting our economic recovery, we now have a glimpse into what the road to post-pandemic recovery will look like.

DMZ has reviewed both the Ontario provincial and federal government budgets and identified key commitments that will affect the small business and startup ecosystem.

Here’s what you need to know about both budgets.

Federal Budget Highlights

The full federal budget can be found here.

High Level Overview – Big Measures

  • $101.4 billion in new spending over three years to fuel the recovery and kick-start the transition to a green economy.
  • $30 billion over five years and $8.3 billion per year after that to create and sustain a national child care program. Goal is a $10/day child care service by 2025-2026.
  • $18 billion to build safer, healthier Indigenous communities.
  • $17.6 billion for green recovery — to conserve 25% of lands and oceans by 2025 and to put Canada on course to exceed climate change targets by cutting emissions to 36% below 2005 levels by 2030.

Small Business Support

  • Emergency Subsidy Supports: The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy and the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy will be extended until September 25th 2021, with the possibility of extension till November.
  • Canada Recovery Hiring Program:  A $595 million investment to help businesses pivot to recovery with incentives to hire back, grow hours, or increase wages.
  • Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program: A commitment to provide $960 million over three years for a new training program. Funding will help design and deliver training that is relevant to the needs of small and medium-sized businesses, and to their employees. 
  • Digital Adoption Program: A commitment to a $4 billion investment into a Digital Adoption Program to help Canadian small businesses become more competitive, go digital, and take advantage of e-commerce.
    • This investment will help 160,000 businesses become more competitive, and will create jobs for 28,000 young people.
  • Lowering Credit Card Fees: A commitment to engaging with stakeholders to lower the average overall cost of interchange fees for small businesses.
  • Creating the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development Program: The government is investing over $100 million to ensure Canada’s entrepreneurship ecosystem is supporting inclusive growth
    • Enhancing the Canada Small Business Financing Program: The government proposes to improve the Canada Small Business Financing Program through amendments to the Canada Small Business Financing Act. Amendments are projected to increase annual financing by $560 million, supporting approximately 2,900 additional small businesses. 
    • The government is investing $2.6 billion over four years to the Business Development Bank of Canada to help small- and medium-sized businesses finance technology adoption. 
  • Support for Women Entrepreneurs: The government will provide up to $146.9 million over four years, to strengthen the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy.
    • Women entrepreneurs would have greater access to financing, mentorship, and training. Funding would also further support the Women Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Fund and the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub.
  • Supporting Black Entrepreneurs: The government is investing an additional $51.7M in the Black Entrepreneurship Program, on top of the previously invested $221 million, to further strengthen the Black entrepreneurship ecosystem.
  • Supporting Aboriginal Entrepreneurs: The government is committing $42 million over three years to expand the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program.
  • Strategic Innovation Fund: Budget 2021 proposes to provide the Strategic Innovation Fund with an incremental $7.2 billion over seven years on a cash basis, starting in 2021-22, and $511.4 million ongoing. 
  • Student Work Placement Program: The government is committing $239.8 million in the Student Work Placement Program in 2021-22 to support work-integrated learning opportunities for post-secondary students. 
  • Skills for Success Program: The government is investing $298 million over three years in a new skills program that would help Canadians at all skills levels improve their skills. The program will fund organizations to design and deliver training to enhance foundational skills, such as literacy and numeracy, as well as transferable and soft skills.

Venture Capital

  • The government has committed to increase venture capital funding and support the continued growth of Canada’s innovative companies, the budget proposes to make available up to $450 million on a cash basis over five years, starting in 2021-22, for a renewed Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative that would increase venture capital available to entrepreneurs.
    • $50 million of this amount would be dedicated to support venture capital investments in life science technologies.
    • $50 million of this amount would support a new Inclusive Growth Stream to increase access to venture capital for underrepresented groups, such as women and racialized communities.

Child Care

  • Establishing a Canada-wide early learning and child care system: The government is investing $30 billion over the next 5 years to establish a $10 per day Canada-wide early learning and child care system which will help all families access affordable, high-quality, and flexible child care no matter where they live. This is the largest initiative to increase the size of Canada’s Labour force since NAFTA.

Minimum Wage

  • Establishing a $15 minimum wage: The Government of Canada announced its intention to introduce legislation that will establish a federal minimum wage of $15 per hour, rising with inflation, with provisions to ensure that where provincial or territorial minimum wages are higher, that wage will prevail. 

Green Recovery 

  • The government has committed $17.6 billion into Canada’s green recovery, which it says will help the country exceed its Paris Agreement targets and reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

Supporting Asian Canadians

  • With the increase in reports of harassment and attacks against Asian Canadians, the government will invest $11 million over two years, to expand the impact of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation.

Other notable commitments

  • The Universal Broadband Fund, designed to bring better internet service to remote and rural communities, is getting an extra $1 billion over six years.
  • The CanCode program, which helps young people learn digital skills including coding, is getting $80 million to help it reach three million more students, with an emphasis on underrepresented groups. 
  • The federal government will appoint its first data commissioner, who will issue guidance to help protect people’s personal data and to encourage innovation in the digital marketplace.
  • In efforts to streamline the Express Entry program for highly skilled immigrants, the immigration minister will have the authority to help select Express Entry candidates to become permanent residents. 
    • There’s also a promised overhaul of the digital platform that supports Canada’s immigration system. The government will spend $428.9 million in new funding over five years, so that application processing will improve starting in 2023.

__________________

Provincial Budget Highlights

The full provincial budget can be found here.

High Level Overview – Big Measures

  • $16.3 B to Protect Health of Ontarians
  • $23.3 B to Protect the Economy
  • $39.6 B Total Direct Support 
  • $11.3 B Cash Flow for People and Business 
  • $51 B Total Supports over next four years

Small Business Support

  • Ontario is committing to an additional round of support for small businesses through the Ontario Small Business Support Grant. 
    • Small businesses who have been determined as eligible recipients of the Ontario Small Business Support Grant will automatically be entitled to a second payment equal to the amount of their first payment, for minimum total support of $20,000 up to a maximum of $40,000 — no new application necessary. Confirmed eligible businesses can expect to receive their second payment later in the spring.
    • Eligible business owners who have not yet applied for the grant have until March 31, 2021, to submit an application.
  • For main street businesses: Ontario is investing an additional $10 million in the Digital Main Street program in 2021–22 to help more small businesses achieve digital transformation and serve customers effectively online. The program will continue to provide digital transformation grants, an online learning platform, training programs, and digital service squads offering technical support to small business owners.

Investment Support

  • Ontario is committing $400 million over four years to create the Invest Ontario Fund, which will support Invest Ontario and encourage investments in the key sectors of advanced manufacturing, technology and life sciences. The province is pitching it as a “‘one-stop’ shop for business and investors. This is the first funding commitment for the new agency, which the government launched in its last budget. 

Reskilling and Training Tax Credit

  • The government is proposing a new tax credit that would give recipients up to $2,000 to cover 50% of the cost of re-training, for a total of $260 million for 230,000 workers. This refundable tax credit is eligible for those 26 to 65 years in age to seek financial support to return to the Ontario job market. This credit is eligible to be used for tuition to aid in training for new skills at public and private colleges across the province.

Digital Government

  • The highly anticipated digital ID is expected to be released by the end of year. This new form of secure, electronic government-issued ID will conveniently be used to access government services while protecting data privacy. This technology will allow users to be in full control of personal information and who it is shared with. 
  • The government has also set aside $500 million for the Ontario Acceleration Fund which includes:
    • $2.2 million to develop the Single Window for Business, a transformational digital solution designed to use emerging technology, data, and responsive design to improve the business experience with government services. A designated single window will provide a solution that makes it easier for businesses to access the information and services they need to get up‐and running, create jobs and grow.

Increased Broadband Capacity

  • The budget pledges $2.8 billion in new funding for broadband infrastructure, as the province promises to expand reliable services to every region of the province by 2025. The commitment brings its total broadband funding to almost $4 billion for the six years starting in 2019–20. 

Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network

  • Ontario is investing $56.4 million over the next four years to create the new Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network. This will help accelerate the development of the next generation electric, connected and autonomous vehicle and mobility technologies that contribute to a lower environmental and carbon footprint.

Research and Development

  • The province plans to contribute more than $500 million to research and development with the potential for health-related and other breakthroughs at universities, colleges and academic hospitals. It plans to spend the money alongside federal and private-sector partners, citing the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, the Ontario Brain Institute, Ontario Genomics, Compute Ontario and the Fields and Perimeter institutes.

Are you a founder trying to navigate the startup ecosystem? Learn more about programming DMZ offers here.

Breaking $1 billion in funding: DMZ startups reach a major milestone

DMZ’s startups and alumni have raised over $1 billion CAD in funding


Note: All figures are reported in Canadian dollars.


DMZ companies have officially surpassed $1 billion in total funding raised. While the DMZ has been supporting startups for the last 11 years, the majority of this funding has been raised by startups in the last five years (over $940 million since 2016).

This milestone is a victory for the entire Canadian startup ecosystem. It’s a testament to the level of confidence that government, investors, and startup support organizations have in Canadian tech founders to lead world-class businesses. It’s true that startups who have proven market traction, strong competitive advantages and IP protection will attract investors. But oftentimes, qualitative traits that a startup has may be even more valuable in the eyes of an investor – like having a solid diverse management team that fosters great company culture or a founder that has tremendous passion and drive to make a difference.

Let’s dive into the numbers to explore tech investment trends over the last decade, from the largest funding rounds to the industries receiving the most investment dollars. 
This major milestone has been achieved through 194 DMZ-supported startups that have received a total of 424 investments from 2011 to 2021. 

The raise that pushed the DMZ to break past the $1 billion mark was Toronto-based Snapcommerce’s recent $107 million raise. Snapcommerce was incubated at the DMZ in 2016. This announcement also marked the largest single funding round on record for DMZ alumni! 

After a year like 2020, with so much uncertainty to navigate, DMZ startups preserved and were able to continue to secure funding. Over $185 million was raised in 2020 alone.


Top 10 startups and top 10 funding rounds

The top ten startups that have received the most investment dollars have collectively raised over $700 million. The top five – Borrowell, Snapcommerce, Sensibill, Ada Support and Flybits – accounting for an impressive $560 million of that. That’s over 50% of the total funding raised by all DMZ startups.


Funding breakdown by stage

These investments come from a variety of funding sources, including equity crowdfunding, government grants, pitch competition awards, and angel and venture capital investments from the pre-seed stage to Series C and beyond.

The sheer number of stakeholders that have played a role in reaching this $1 billion achievement illustrates the importance of industry-wide collaboration and cooperation. 

The way in which this ecosystem plays as a whole determines its success.


Funding breakdown by industry

When breaking down the industries of startups that raised the most money, startups in Financial Tech take the lead. A total of 11 startups representing this industry raised a combined $273 million – that’s over a quarter of the total funding raised by DMZ companies across all industries. The industries that followed were Retail Tech ($213M), Enterprise Tech ($131M), Health Tech ($100M),  Arts & Entertainment ($59M), Marketing ($27M), Education Tech ($32M), Communications ($29M), Consumer Tech ($26M)and Insurance Tech ($25M).


Huge gaps in funding support still exist

The Canadian tech ecosystem has become increasingly competitive – this milestone speaks to the growth and potential of our startups. Yet, startup founders still say that accessing capital is their biggest challenge and roadblock to success.

Seed deals have slowed down significantly in recent years and early-stage financing has become progressively more difficult to secure.

That’s why the DMZ is doubling down on its efforts to help startups in the early stages receive more investment strategy support, access to investors and dedicated fundraising workshops, and mentorship from professionals who specialize in fundraising – especially through our Black Innovation and Women Founders streams to support women-owned and Black-owned startups that have historically been underfunded.

Want to be a part of the next billion? Email us at dmz@torontomu.ca. Learn more about the DMZ’s programming here.

How digital badging gives young professionals a competitive edge

Jumpstarting students’ career paths in cybersecurity with CanHack digital badges


It’s not too late for high school students to register for CanHack 2021 and compete for up to $16,250 in prizes! Learn more
here.


As the years pas
s in a student’s journey through education, they will tackle many great accomplishments: from academic achievements, participation in extracurriculars, competitions, volunteer and community work, involvement in student associations, and so on. Previously, certificates, diplomas, badges and trophies have typically represented tokens of these achievements.

Now, with the global workforce becoming increasingly digital, students need a new way to display these accomplishments. Furthermore, COVID-19 has forced education institutions to rapidly shift to online learning, meaning physical certificates often can’t be provided to add to student portfolios. How do these accomplishments get recognized? 

There’s a better way for students to present these achievements: digital badging.


What is digital badging?

Simply put, digital badging, also known as digital credentials and micro credentials, is a validated online certification of a specific accomplishment or skill. Digital badging provides learners with a bite-sized approach to education, and focuses on the development of a specific skill. When a learner completes a new course or gains a new skill, they receive a digital badge as recognition for their achievement. Unlike physical certificates, badges are designed to be optimized for sharing on social media and professional networks like LinkedIn to help individuals find a job or earn an internal promotion. When an employer or recruiter sees that a potential job candidate has digital badges listed on their LinkedIn profile, it’s a quick and secure way for the employer to understand the certifications and skills the candidate has.

Digital badge benefits: The learner

It is clear that lifelong learning has become an imperative for young professionals to break into today’s rapidly changing workforce. Up-skilling and re-skilling allows professionals (of all ages) to remain relevant and up to speed on the latest trends.  Digital badges helps learners:

  • Become motivated to grow their careers by learning new skills outside of what they have been taught in school.
  • Finesse their own personal brand image and improve their competitiveness in the job market by highlighting badges on social media platforms like LinkedIn.
  • Showcase their soft skills and bridge any skills gap that may exist between academic achievements and job requirements.
  • Demonstrate to future employers their eagerness and ability to acquire new skills.


CanHack introduces digital badging

At the DMZ, we believe it is crucial to empower Canada’s next generation of innovators and provide them with the necessary skill sets to thrive. As the skills gap in cybersecurity widens, we hope to promote cyber literacy while getting students excited about a potential career in the space. We will provide every participant a digital badge, marking their official participation in the third annual CanHack challenge (bragging rights included)! CanHack participants will be able to send a signal of great success to post secondary institutions and future employers, as CanHack’s digital badge will give them a competitive edge. All CanHack badges are endorsed by cybersecurity leaders, Carnegie Mellon University Cylab Security and Privacy Institute and RBC, helping students to stand out!

About CanHack

The DMZ at Toronto Metropolitan University, in partnership with the Royal Bank of Canada, have come together to launch CanHack – a cybersecurity student competition to promote cyber literacy and to also address digital skills gaps in the labour market. Participants will learn critical computer security skills, work with experts in the field and have an opportunity to win up to $16,250 in cash prizes for both themselves and the school they attend! CanHack leverages an online open-source computer security platform established by the Carnegie Mellon University Cylab Security & Privacy Institute called PicoCTF. This game-based learning experience creates an interactive and engaging experience where students are tasked with addressing cybersecurity challenges faced by Canadian financial institutions.
Want to learn more about the CanHack challenge and how you can participate? Check out our CanHack page for more information! 

Tackling the cybersecurity gender gap: Empowering women to lead the way in tech

Hear from RBC leader, May Sarout, on how we can close the gender gap and encourage more young women to get involved in cybersecurity

 

Don’t miss Women in Cyber, an exclusive panel event hosted by CanHack & Hackergal, coming up on November 18. Keep reading for more details.

The gender gap we see in tech isn’t exactly a novel issue. In the cybersecurity field, women only represent about 20 percent of the workforce. The gap has indeed narrowed in recent years, however, the industry still has quite a long way to go to achieve equitable gender representation.

May Sarout headshotThankfully, organizations like RBC have several initiatives in place to ensure we are closing this gap – from educating young women and launching partnerships like CanHack with the DMZ, to looking inwards at the organization’s hiring practices to ensure there are diverse individuals represented in tech and leadership roles.

As the Senior Director of Cyber Security Strategic Partnerships and Innovation, May Sarout is working hard to increase the representation of women in Canada’s ever-evolving tech sector. May’s passion for advancing gender diversity and empowering young women in tech is clear; her involvement in initiatives like CanHack, participation in tech events and speaking panels and efforts to raise awareness for more women-identified leaders in cybersecurity are collectively making an impact to tackle the diversity gap.

RBC CanHack DMZ event

May shared her insights on the barriers for women in cybersecurity and how young women can get a head start on a successful career in the field. We also asked May what advice she would give tech companies on building diverse teams, and how they can be more intentional about implementing inclusive hiring practices.

Here’s what May had to say.

 

Why does the cybersecurity gender gap exist?

 

In my opinion, there are three major reasons why there are fewer women in cybersecurity than there should be. First, there is a huge misunderstanding and misconception about the cybersecurity field, and this leads women to shy away from it. Second, there is a lack of understanding of the variety of roles within cyber, which I will speak to a little later. Lastly, when reviewing job roles, women are generally less likely than men to apply for jobs where they don’t meet every single qualification on a job description – making the number of women in an applicant pool even smaller.

 

How do we address this gap? What can we do to fix it?

 

I have a few suggestions, and RBC is already working to address all of them. The first thing we can do to address this issue is create programs that are specifically catered to women.

Another thing we can do to address the gap is to invite more successful women role models to share their journeys on speaking panels and events. This allows younger women in the audience to envision themselves in a similar leadership position and reassures them that they too can be successful in the field. Further to that, it’s important the outreach to young women is there so that they are aware of these events and opportunities in the first place.

We need to be sharing more information about the variety of roles in Cybersecurity. The more that women know about available roles, the more likely they may see themselves in a role.

For the young women-identifying innovators who might be interested in exploring a career in cybersecurity but aren’t sure what their options are, what could a career path in this field look like?

 

There are so many different paths to take!

On one hand, some career paths may take a more technical route. But on the other hand, some Cyber roles require no technical skills. Effective cybersecurity is about more than the technology alone. We need people in cybersecurity that have a thorough understanding of human behaviour and can take a psychological approach to reducing cyber risk.

There are also roles that are involved in the marketing, education and awareness around cyber, and these roles may require little to no technical skills. These roles might require some domain knowledge, but it’s more important the individual has a marketing or communications background than cyber.

Finally, many roles fall in the middle of this spectrum, including project management, business analysis, quality assurance – every cyber organization needs these roles, and these skills can be transferable from other fields in tech. As long as you have the passion for cybersecurity space, you will likely find a role that’s right for you!

 

How can young women get involved in cybersecurity early?

 

There are plenty of initiatives that allow youth to have fun as they learn about cybersecurity. CanHack, the initiative we host in partnership with the DMZ, is a great way for young women to get involved early. It’s a fun challenge that helps participants think critically and use problem-solving skills. Hackergal is another great organization that has opportunities designed especially for girls.

There are also lots of business associations catered to women in cyber that you can get involved with, such as Women in Cybersecurity. Leading Cyber Ladies is another one to check out. Take a look at LinkedIn, there are always events going on related to the industry.

The good thing about the days we’re living in now with virtual events is that you’re not restricted to attending events just in your local area. The world has become much more global, and in a way, it’s opened up more doors!

What advice do you have for tech companies that want to adopt more inclusive practices?

 

Study after study shows that diverse and inclusive teams are more successful. When it comes to diversity, we shouldn’t focus solely on gender diversity. We should look at all diverse talent, whether it’s gender-based, culture-based, age-based, or experience-based.

The advice I would give to companies would be to set certain goals related to diversity and inclusion. Be mindful of what you want to achieve. Declare diversity and inclusion in your performance targets and make sure you track it and measure it on a consistent basis. Diversity and inclusion have to be prioritized.

It’s important to have diversity and inclusion measures within your hiring process. For example, at RBC we ensure that there is diversity in all teams and across all levels of the organization. Hiring managers must report on how many diverse candidates they interview and whether their chosen candidate was a diverse hire.

Beyond setting targets, it’s also important to make sure you have a culture that fosters diverse hiring. If you want to hire more Black, Indigenous, or People of Colour, you must include members of those communities in the recruitment process. This will allow job candidates to see that they have a place in your organization and feel more passionate and confident about the selection process.

How does your team at RBC take measures to address the gender gap issue that exists in the cybersecurity field?

The purpose of the Cybersecurity Strategic Partnerships and Innovation team is to be a major catalyst in growing and lifting cybersecurity talent, thought leadership and innovation in Canada. We do this by growing the cybersecurity talent pipeline, training programs, advocating for diversity and increasing diversity of available talent, increasing interest of future generations in cyber.

First, we’re addressing the cybersecurity gender gap through RBC’s internal recruitment processes. This is prioritized for all areas of the organization at the Executive Committee level. Our Senior Vice President of Cyber Security is a woman – Laurie Pezzente (who has won Canada’s Most Powerful Women – Top 100 award, among several other awards). Additionally, two of the four Executives reporting to our SVP are also women.

RBC is constantly being recognized for its diversity and inclusion initiatives. It’s not just cybersecurity, either – RBC is focused on promoting diversity in all fields.

We partner with organizations like Ryerson and the DMZ on initiatives such as the Cybersecure Policy exchange and CanHack. We’ve also built the RBC Women in Cyber stream within the Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst.

This year, for CanHack 2021, we set specific targets to increase women’s representation.

Not only will CanHack be offered to Canadian students coast-to-coast, but CanHack 2021 will also be special in that DMZ will run women-only workshops on a number of cybersecurity topics to support women in STEM, and work with organizations like Hackergal to inspire and recruit more female participants to the challenge.

Calling all Canadian high school teachers and community supervisors! Would you like to learn more about CanHack and other cybersecurity opportunities for women?  

Register here to learn more about the 2021 CanHack Challenge.

Join us for the Women in Cyber panel, hosted by CanHack & Hackergal on Wednesday, November 18 at 5:00pm. Register here.

 The panellists will share their experiences as women who are making an impact in the field and address how to collectively create better pathways for women in cybersecurity in Canada.  

Questions related to CanHack? Reach out to Naveed Tagari at naveedtagari@torontomu.ca.

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