CoolIT and PurposeMed Honoured at Start Alberta Tech Awards
Alberta's top tech innovators recognized for historic exits and ecosystem contributions in Calgary.
1Annual Tech Industry Recognition
The ninth annual Start Alberta Tech Awards took place at Calgary’s National Music Centre to celebrate regional innovation. Operated by The A100, the event honored companies and leaders across ten distinct categories. These awards highlight the growing capacity for Alberta-based firms to build technology that addresses significant global market needs.
2Historic Exit for CoolIT
CoolIT Systems received the Deal of the Year award following its acquisition by Ecolab. The transaction, valued at $4.75 billion USD, officially closed in July. This deal represents the largest disclosed acquisition price for an Alberta-based company in history, marking a major milestone for the region's advanced liquid cooling sector.
3PurposeMed Anchors Regional Growth
PurposeMed was named Anchor of the Year for its role as a flagship company supporting the local ecosystem. The telehealth firm, which operates brands like Freddie and Frida, was recently acquired by Grindr for $250 million USD. CEO Pete MacLeod emphasized that founders can achieve massive scale without excessive capital.
4Helcim Scales Payment Operations
Calgary-based fintech firm Helcim secured the Scaleup of the Year award. The company has more than doubled its team size since 2021. Last August, Helcim closed a $53 million CAD Series C funding round, achieving a valuation of $250 million while maintaining over $150 million in annual recurring revenue figures.
5Emerging AI and Medtech
Cheng (Jack) Su of EnerNode AI was named Most Promising Founder for his work in oil and gas operations. Meanwhile, Edmonton-based NiaHealth received the A100 One to Watch award. Since its 2023 founding, the medtech startup has raised over $8 million to provide personalized health metrics and blood testing services.
6Investment and Ecosystem Support
Graphite Ventures was recognized as Investor of the Year for its active role in Calgary and Edmonton. Additionally, Kristina Milke of Sprout Fund received the Ecosystem Support of the Year award. Milke is a founding member of the University of Alberta’s mentorship service and has spent over a decade supporting founders.
7Leadership in Healthcare Innovation
Dr. Christy Lane of Flora Fertility was honored as Woman in Tech, following her startup's $5 million USD seed round. Dr. Caley Shukalek of PurposeMed was named Leader of the Year. Under his medical leadership, the company expanded HIV care services across Canada and reached all 50 United States markets.
8Impact of Regional Recognition
These awards reflect the maturation of Alberta’s technology sector, moving from early-stage startups to high-value global exits. By highlighting successful founders and investors, the program aims to retain local talent. The recognition of firms like CoolIT and PurposeMed serves as a benchmark for future growth within the Western Canadian ecosystem.
Original article: BetaKit — CoolIT and PurposeMed Honoured at Start Alberta Tech Awards