Plugging Into Potential: How Calgary’s Startup Scene is Powering Up
tl;dr
Ecosystem Growth: Calgary's startup scene thrives on collaboration, with OCIF connecting local startups to global investors and resources.
Global Connections: Plug and Play’s programs integrate Calgary startups into international networks, driving investments and scaling opportunities.
Future Potential: Emerging sectors like AI and clean tech position Calgary as a growing global innovation hub for entrepreneurs and investors.
Calgary’s growing startup ecosystem is fuelled by collaboration, global connections, and timely support. A key player in this transformation is the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF), which has been pivotal in connecting local and international players to create a thriving space for entrepreneurs and investors.
Brad Parry, CEO of OCIF and president and CEO of Calgary Economic Development (CED), is at the forefront of this shift. His vision is clear: position Calgary as a global leader in innovation. “Our goal with OCIF is not just to invest in individual companies, but to foster the entire innovation ecosystem,” Parry says. “It’s about creating a foundation for startups to scale, develop, and attract global interest.”
The impact of the $100-million OCIF is already evident, helping Calgary startups in sectors like clean tech, digital health, and AI. But the fund’s influence extends beyond capital—it bridges the gap between Calgary and global markets, connecting local companies with international investors, particularly from Silicon Valley. “For startups to grow, they need access to capital and expertise from around the world,” Parry says.
That’s where Plug and Play, a global innovation platform with a hub in Calgary, comes in. Lindsay Smylie, Director of Alberta at Plug and Play, has worked closely with OCIF to make these connections a reality. “Calgary's growth is all about getting local startups the exposure they need internationally,” she says. “The exposure to Silicon Valley and other global hubs allows Calgary companies to see what’s possible and what’s expected in the global market.”
Plug and Play supports Calgary companies through accelerator programs, networking events, and investor connections. “One of the things we do best is connect startups with our global network,” Smylie explains.
A standout initiative is the Startup Immersion Program, which integrates Calgary startups into the Silicon Valley ecosystem. “We’ve taken 15 Calgary-based startups through the immersion program so far, and it’s made a huge impact,” Smylie shares. “The program provides exposure to investors and real-time feedback from experts.”
The results speak for themselves. Smylie points to a startup that secured investment after participating in the immersion program. “This isn’t just about raising capital; it’s about building lasting relationships that help scale businesses,” she adds.
OCIF’s role in supporting these efforts is crucial. By investing in programs like Plug and Play’s, OCIF is helping Calgary startups become global contenders. “We’re bringing investors from outside Alberta into the ecosystem, so startups here can see firsthand what it takes to attract capital and expand beyond our borders,” Parry says.
However, global networks are just one part of the equation. The local community plays a key role in Calgary’s startup success. Smylie highlights the importance of cultivating a culture of innovation within the city. “It’s about the people on the ground—the entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors—who really make the difference,” she says. “Calgary’s startup ecosystem is growing because we’re seeing more collaboration, energy, and risk-taking. The city’s attitude toward innovation has shifted, creating new opportunities every day.”
International perspectives are crucial for Calgary’s ecosystem. Plug and Play CEO Saeed Amidi sees the potential in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, emphasizing the value of international engagement. "We have invested in cities around the world, and Calgary’s entrepreneurial energy stands out," Amidi says. “The potential is immense. By bringing global investors to the table, we can accelerate Calgary’s growth and put it on the map as a major player in the global tech scene.”
Amidi believes that by connecting Calgary startups to a global network, the city can gain the kind of international recognition that cities like Silicon Valley or Toronto have already achieved. “What we’re doing in Calgary isn’t just about one or two companies,” he says. “It’s about creating a system where innovation can scale, attract funding, and inspire the next wave of entrepreneurs.”
Looking ahead, both Parry and Smylie see immense potential for Calgary. Parry anticipates growing global recognition for the city as a tech hub. “We’ve seen a lot of momentum in the past few years, and we’re just getting started,” he says. “There’s a lot of opportunity ahead, especially in emerging sectors like AI, clean tech, and digital health.”
For Plug and Play, the future is also promising. “We’re expanding our team and increasing programming to ensure Calgary startups have the global connections they need to thrive,” Smylie says. The company plans to bring more programs and international partners to the city.
With the support of initiatives like OCIF and organizations like Plug and Play, Calgary is becoming a place where startups don’t just survive—they thrive on the global stage.
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