Full-service group brings resources to the people
They’re raising millions, discovering thousands and securing hundreds. Local technology companies have raised more than $10.5 million in funds at financing forums, and more than 1,600 discoveries have been evaluated with about 680 patents secured thanks to the assistance and expertise of Innovate Calgary.
In 2010, Calgary Technologies Inc. and University Technologies International began working together as Innovate Calgary — a full-service organization offering technology transfer and business incubator services to researchers, entrepreneurs and businesses within the advanced technology sector.
With more than 50 years of combined experience supporting the technology community, Innovate Calgary is dedicated to the growth of southern Alberta’s technology commercialization.
“In addition to providing programs and services we also create opportunities for entrepreneurs, early-stage companies, inventors and investors to interact with the goal to accelerate and support innovation in southern Alberta’s technology sector,” says Innovate Calgary president Peter Garrett.
A team of professionals with Innovate Calgary provides expert advice and assistance in regard to intellectual property protection as well as strategy related to patent, copyright and trademark registration.
The group assists with marketing and licensing intellectual property, company creation and incubation and analysis of technologies for commercial potential.
It also provides business and technical advice and skills workshops and mitigates financial and resource risks of technology commercialization, company creation and investment attraction.
“We touch approximately 500 entrepreneurs per year,” says Garrett. “We also have about 250 angel investors in our network and we maintain a strong relationship with the university.”
The organization has also come alongside Calgary Economic Development as an Action Calgary partner.
“We share a mutual goal to create a healthy business environment and as we support each other, we both achieve our goals,” says Garrett.