Celebrating Growth: The 2024 ScaleUP Awards Gala

As the Canadian startup ecosystem continues to thrive, many businesses are evolving from fledgling entities into scaling powerhouses. This transformation brings a new array of challenges—ranging from people management to securing capital, refining operational systems, and embracing sustainable practices. In recognition of this critical stage of development, the ScaleUP Awards were established to honor the companies successfully navigating this shift from startup to growth-stage ventures.

Recognizing Growth-Stage Innovators

The ScaleUP Awards are not for traditional startups chasing early traction; they spotlight growth-stage companies that are actively building momentum across various sectors and regions in Western Canada. As part of ScaleUP Week, this esteemed event brings together diverse finalists from Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba, showcasing innovation across technology platforms, engineering firms, health innovators, and more.

The introduction of new award categories in 2025—such as Emerging, BIPOC, Women-Led, and Rising Star—reflects the rich diversity of leadership in the Western Canadian economy. These categories honor the multifaceted nature of the entrepreneurial landscape and promote various voices in business.

A Word from the Organizers

Simon Raby, a professor at Mount Royal University and the founder of ScaleUP Week, emphasizes the importance of these awards. “We received applications from across Western Canada, and what stood out this year was the range of companies pushing through the complexity of scale,” he states. Raby points out that this year’s finalists are not only fast-growing but are also committed to building sustainably and responsibly.

The Awards Gala: A Celebration of Achievement

Winners of the ScaleUP Awards will be announced during the gala event scheduled for June 5, 2024, in Calgary. The event promises to be a celebration of innovation, resilience, and strategic growth in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

A Look at the Finalists

This year’s finalists exemplify pioneering efforts in their respective fields. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout nominees:

International Category

• Nanoprecise Sci. Corp (Edmonton, AB): Utilizing sensors and AI, this company predicts mechanical failures in industrial equipment, with applications in over 30 countries.
• Neuhoff Capital Corporation (Calgary, AB): Specializing in guiding family-run firms through growth transitions, Neuhoff focuses on values-driven approaches that maintain core business identities.

Sustainable Category

• Cascadia Scientific (Surrey, BC): Renowned for developing emissions monitoring tools for heavy industries, the company is now advancing capabilities in carbon intensity tracking.

Social Impact Category

• Virtuous Circle Counselling (Calgary, AB): Integrating VR technology with clinical counseling, the company has supported over 16,000 individuals since its inception in 2020.

Women-Led Category

• Sunnybrook Welding & Machine Shop Ltd. (Sunnybrook, AB): After a devastating fire, this company rebuilt with advanced automation, symbolizing resilience and innovation in the manufacturing sector.

BIPOC Category

• RunWithIt Synthetics (Edmonton, AB): This company, recognized by the United Nations, uses synthetic data to enhance urban resilience, demonstrating that innovation can tackle complex societal issues.

Emerging Category

• Alethea Medical (Calgary, AB): This platform supports health equity by providing diagnostic tools used in over 35 Canadian communities.

Rising Star Category

• Moment Energy (Coquitlam, BC): Crafting energy storage solutions from repurposed electric vehicle batteries, the company is at the forefront of sustainable technology.

The Importance of Scale and Recognition

These finalists highlight how Canadian businesses are not just surviving, but thriving by refining their operations, developing competent teams, and aligning growth with social responsibility. They tackle real-world issues while scaling with discipline and intent—showcasing a clear transition from startup mentality to sustained enterprise.

Final Thoughts and Future Events

As the anticipation builds for the ScaleUP Awards Gala on June 5, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the incredible achievements of these growth-stage companies across Western Canada. By sharing their stories, the ScaleUP Awards play a pivotal role in inspiring future entrepreneurs and fostering a supportive ecosystem for innovation.

For more details and updates on the gala, visit the official event page at scaleupweek.ca/awards-gala.

Digital Journal proudly serves as the official media partner for ScaleUP Week 2025, with support from the Calgary Innovation Coalition—a network dedicated to propelling innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.

Together, we celebrate the remarkable business landscape of Western Canada and the resilient spirit driving its growth forward.