Building Connection: From The Publisher, Joanne Fedeyko
tl;dr
Impact Through Innovation: Celebrates ideas, technology, and leadership creating meaningful change across industries.
Spotlights: Features trailblazers in AI, food sustainability, entrepreneurship, and education reshaping their fields.
Inspiring Stories: Profiles leaders and initiatives driving equity, sustainability, and transformation for a better future.
Innovation isn’t just about invention—it’s about impact. It’s about how ideas, technology, and bold leadership come together to solve problems, drive change, and create a better future. In this issue of Disruption Magazine, we’re celebrating impact across industries, spotlighting individuals, organizations, and initiatives that are shaping the world in profound ways.
Wendy Cukier, director of the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub at Toronto Metropolitan University’s Diversity Institute, brings an insightful perspective to this issue. In her article, she explores how businesses can harness AI technologies not just to keep pace but to lead. Her call to action for organizations to adopt AI-driven solutions highlights the intersection of innovation and equity.
We’re also thrilled to spotlight Protein Industries Canada, which is supporting Canadian startups focused on plant and non-animal proteins. By investing in groundbreaking enterprises, they are helping to redefine what’s possible in food innovation while driving sustainability and economic growth.
Calgary is emerging as a hub for innovation, and the Calgary Economic Development Corporation’s Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF) is playing a pivotal role. With its support of Plug and Play, OCIF is fueling the city’s vibrant startup ecosystem, proving that Calgary is a city of opportunity for entrepreneurs and innovators alike.
Our Women Making a Difference feature shines a light on Mona Sabet and Sunny Schwartz, whose impressive careers stand as a testament to the impact of determination, vision, and leadership. Sabet’s work in tech and diversity advocacy is paving the way for a more equitable industry, while Schwartz’s groundbreaking initiatives in criminal justice reform are challenging conventions and making real change.
This issue also celebrates the winners of the annual Mitacs Innovation Awards. These innovators span industries, embodying the spirit of ingenuity and showcasing the transformative power of their work. Their stories inspire us to consider the ripple effects of impactful innovation in every sector.
Finally, we dive into the world of EdTech, exploring how emerging technologies are reshaping education. From personalized learning experiences to tools that bridge gaps in accessibility, these startups are harnessing the potential of innovation to empower the next generation.
At its core, impact is about building a better future, and this issue is packed with stories of those who are making it happen. As you turn the pages, we hope you’ll find inspiration in the ideas, the people, and the breakthroughs that are redefining what’s possible. Let’s celebrate these changemakers and commit ourselves to being part of this wave of transformation.