The Canadian Innovation Exchange (CIX) launched the CIX Top 20 on Thursday, opening up the floor for companies to put in entries and be recognized as among the most innovative in Canada’s tech scene.
Held once a year, the CIX recognizes innovative companies with revenues of under $10 million and helps shine a light on what will be “the next big thing,” according to CIX co-chair Chris Arsenault. This year, the CIX made the announcement from Banff, Alta. at the Canadian Venture Capital Association.
Last year’s top 20 included 10 winners in digital media and 10 in information and communication technology. On the digital media side, winners included: UrtheCast, a video streaming platform that will show a view of the earth from space; Wajam Inc., a social search service that adds friends’ reviews, links, photos and videos to regular search results; and Frank & Oak, a men’s online clothing store.
In ICT, 2012’s winners included: Payfirma Corp., a mobile and web-based payment system; Viafoura Inc., an online commenting platform that offers multimedia and analytics; and 360pi, which helps retailers plan pricing strategies.
The 2013 CIX forum will take place on Nov. 21 in the MaRS Discovery District in Toronto. CEOs of the winners of the CIX Top 20 will have the chance to present about their companies in front of innovation industry figures. The deadline to register is Oct. 11, 2013. Registration information can be found here.
