Security cameras and motion detectors have been around for decades. But one Ottawa firm has developed software to teach a camera to look for specific threats, and then deliver the key video footage to a client’s smartphone.
Similarly, media monitoring used to mean collecting daily newspapers in the early morning hours and clipping out relevant articles. That’s no longer sufficient in the Internet age, opening the door to custom online search tools that alert customers when relevant news breaks.
Other consumer-oriented startups are changing how consumers receive TV signals, hire tattoo artists and buy natural health products.
OBJ’s annual Startups to Watch feature seeks to profile early-stage companies – particularly those flying under the radar – that possess a combination of disruptive technology, veteran entrepreneurs and professionals in leadership roles, as well as a solid financial foundation from which to grow.
It’s an opportunity to acknowledge Ottawa’s creative thinkers, innovators and risk-takers and profile the city’s rising stars.
Not long after I became the editor of OBJ, I found myself drinking beer with dozens of app developers, entrepreneurs and service providers at the Glebe offices of software firm Mercury Grove. CEO Scott Annan was hosting one of his semi-regular DemoCamps, where startups give a brief presentation on their product and solicit feedback.
At the end of the night, Mr. Annan stood on a chair in the front of the room and asked the assembled crowd to look around them, specifically at the technical talent and business acumen of those in attendance. He argued Ottawa’s broader business community can assist the city’s startups by sharing their stories and telling others about their technology.
Here’s an introduction to 10 local firms worth keeping an eye on. Hopefully, it won’t be the last you hear of them.
2013 Startups to Watch
Gnowit
Health Wave
iWatchLife
NorthVu
Secure City Solutions
Signority
Target Fuel
Tattoo Hero
Toushay
Zighra
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