Welcome to North Forge. We’re a not-for-profit tech incubator, accelerator, and state-of-the-art fabrication lab that works with startups across Canada in technology, STEM, and advanced manufacturing from the ideation stages all the way through to Series A. We help startups and makers build their companies through groundbreaking experiences and resources at no charge.
We are a powerhouse entrepreneur community fuelling Manitoba’s innovative science-based, technology-enabled, and advanced manufacturing startups.
Our facilities include one of North America’s largest fabrication labs (FabLab™), spanning 35,000 square feet across Innovation Drive and Innovation Alley in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Driving innovation, building community.
Check out this great video from North Forge Founders Program alumni Aryval!
Co-founders Jonathan Remis, Daniel Yorsh and Wesley Dyck, launched their MVP in March 2024 and signing their first client in June 2024, Aryval is a SaaS event management platform for private and independent K-12 schools that automates communication, enhances check-in processes, and organizes families for improved ROI tracking.
Rerun Season! Who doesn’t love a classic holiday rerun?
Throwing it back to the very first video we captured of Aryval in action at Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School (STS)! This unforgettable Open House, which welcomed nearly 600 attendees, ran seamlessly thanks to Aryval, making the process efficient and effortless for the admissions team.
Fast forward to today: the STS team is analyzing their event data to identify which events drove the most applicants as they prepare for the new year.
Check out where it all began!
🚨 Important Notice: Start-up Visa Program Applications
North Forge does NOT partner with any third-party agencies or intermediaries for the Start-up Visa program. All applications must be submitted directly by the applicant. Applications submitted through third parties will not be accepted.
If you have been contacted by a third party offering to submit an application on your behalf, please be aware that this constitutes fraudulent misrepresentation. Protect yourself by ensuring all communications and submissions are made directly to North Forge.
📣 Exciting day at North Forge!
We were thrilled to welcome Minister Mike Moroz, Manitoba’s new Minister of Innovation and New Technology, for an exclusive tour of our state-of-the-art FabLab.
During his visit, Minister Moroz explored how North Forge empowers entrepreneurs, makers, and innovators to turn their ideas into reality.
Minister Moroz also met some of our talented Founders, who shared their innovative projects and highlighted the support they’ve received from North Forge:
➡️ Christoff Epp, founder of Kona Wood Craft, showcased his stunning creations made in the EcoPoxy Inc. Epoxy/Resin Room, including a custom Elvish-inscribed desk for Board Member Dan Blair.
➡️ Avery-Anne Gervais, founder of Makermind Toys, demonstrated her educational wooden products, including custom Manitoba Métis Federation Michif learning tools.
➡️ Matthew Olson, founder of Prysm Manufacturing and one of the original FabLab volunteers, shared his journey of using FabLab equipment to develop prototypes and drive innovation.
➡️ Rob Ranson, founder of Win-Shield Devices, introduced his life-changing personal protective equipment and devices, emphasizing how North Forge and the FabLab have been pivotal to his success.
➡️ Kerry Stevenson, Board Chair of North Forge and founder of Fabbaloo, guided the Minister through the 3D printing room, showcasing advancements in the additive manufacturing industry.
➡️ Norm Silver, co-founder of QDoc, with Heather Silver, discussed his experience in the North Forge Founder’s Program and his entrepreneurial journey, including participating in the #ElevateIP program.
Minister Moroz’s leadership aligns seamlessly with our mission to foster innovation and economic growth here in Manitoba. Together, we’re creating opportunities for businesses to thrive while celebrating the incredible talent in our community.
A huge thank you to Minister Moroz for his time, support, and collaborative spirit. We’re excited about the opportunities ahead under his stewardship!
Joelle FosterNermin Sa'dWhitney MoirMarney StapleyDana Driedger, CMEmelia NyarkuDevon ShewchukAshley Somerville WallisGrace GyolaiAgnes LuoJanean McInnes Lisa Dyck Jeff StobbeZach FleisherCarly EdmundsonDan BelhassenTracey L. Epp, K.C Chris Schmidt Diana Axelrod, CPA, CA, CBV
*** Exciting Event Recap! ***
On December 4, 2024, as part of North Forge's #ElevateIP program, Nermin Sa'd, our Director for Programming and Global Initiatives, in collaboration with Dan Patriarca from Fillmore Riley LLP, delivered a comprehensive presentation on Intellectual Property (#IP) Ownership to innovative Indigenous-owned businesses participating in the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) Greg Yuel Fellowship Program.
This event was a fantastic opportunity to share crucial insights on intellectual property, empowering these businesses with the knowledge to protect and leverage their innovations effectively.
A special thank you to our partners at Fillmore Riley LLP for their invaluable expertise and support. Together, we are fostering a stronger, more informed entrepreneurial community.
The session aimed to equip participants with essential knowledge on protecting and leveraging their intellectual property. It underscored the critical role of #IP in fostering innovation and protecting businesses' creative and commercial interests while highlighting the need for tailored legal advice to navigate the complexities of IP law effectively. Some participants identified their IP needs and were encouraged to apply for the #ElevateIP program to receive support in addressing those needs.
Stay tuned for more updates and events!
#ElevateIP#Innovation#IntellectualProperty#Entrepreneurship#IndigenousBusiness#NorthForge#FillmoreRiley#SIIThttps://lnkd.in/g7gS-Dqc
✨ WiLab Members – This One’s for You! ✨
Join us for an exclusive WiLab Lunch & Learn, co-hosted with Pop Colab! 🎉
🌟 Topic: Rethinking Your Relationship With Time
🎙️ Guest Speaker: Dawna Atamanchuk, PCC, from Change Innovators
📅 When: December 11th, 12:00 - 1:30 PM
This session is designed exclusively for WiLab members to help you transform how you view and manage time. 🕒 Learn actionable strategies to leverage your brain’s natural strengths, empowering you to boost productivity and take control of your day. 💡
Not a WiLab member yet? Join for FREE today to access events like this and connect with an incredible community of women and gender-diverse entrepreneurs! 🌟
Only a few spaces left for this session 🔗 DM us to join WiLab and reserve your spot now!
#NorthForge#ManitobaBusiness#smallbusinessowner#smallbusiness#daretodoDonavan RobinsonGrace GyolaiChange InnovatorsDawna Atamanchuk, MA, PCC
📢 Calling all visionaries, changemakers, and storytellers!
TEDxWinnipeg has announced that applications for 2025 speakers are now open! 🌟
Have an idea worth spreading? A story that can inspire? A unique perspective that challenges the norm? This is your chance to take the stage and share it with the world.
They’re looking for thought leaders and innovators from all fields to join their lineup and ignite curiosity, spark conversations, and create impact.
🗓️ Application deadline: December 28, 2024
🔗 Apply now: Link below
#TEDxWinnipeg#IdeasWorthSpreading#Innovation#Storytelling
Your Voice Deserves a Global Stage
Have a groundbreaking idea, unique perspective, or compelling story to share? TEDxWinnipeg 2025 is your chance to inspire our city—and the world. Applications to talk are now open and close on Deceber 28, 2024.
Apply > https://tedxwinnipeg.ca/TEDxWinnipeg
Looking to do a bit of Sunday reading? 📚✨
‘111 Places in Winnipeg That You Must Not Miss’ by Donna Janke takes you beyond the usual landmarks and into the heart of our vibrant city!
We’re thrilled that the North Forge Fabrication Lab is featured in this ultimate insider's guide, showcasing the innovation and creativity thriving in Winnipeg. 🚀
Whether you're a local or a visitor, this book is packed with hidden gems, fascinating history, and unique spots that make Winnipeg one-of-a-kind. Grab your copy today and start exploring! 🗺️
#ExploreWinnipeg#111Places#NorthForge#Innovation#FabLab
Exciting announcement for Manitoba women+ in tech! ✨
In a pioneering collaboration, North Forge and WeMB (Manitoba Women's Enterprise Centre) are partnering to empower women and gender-diverse entrepreneurs in Manitoba’s tech industry with the new WeTech Loans Program!
WeTech Loans are loans up to $25,000 for tech businesses that are 51% owned by women and gender-diverse individuals. Through this program, both North Forge and WeMB will provide crucial support to overcome two of the largest barriers facing women+ entrepreneurs in tech: access to funding and strategic mentorship. North Forge’s innovative ecosystem and WeMB’s targeted financial backing and expert business advising aim to bridge gaps for underrepresented entrepreneurs, empowering them to launch, grow, and sustain tech ventures in Manitoba.
To learn more about WeTech Loans and how to apply, please visit https://lnkd.in/gvNrR7KB
