Kitchener tech company and entrepreneurs from Waterloo win Startup Canada awards

A Kitchener tech company and two entrepreneurs from Waterloo recently came back with hardware from the Startup Canada awards.

Emagin won the innovation award for the Ontario region.

The company, which was founded in the Waterloo Region-Toronto corridor, uses collected data to predict and optimize utility operations.

Emagin's proprietary artificial intelligence is used in water utilities, food and beverage and energy facilities around the world.

Waterloo's Mallorie Brodie and Lauren Lake were also presented with an entrepreneur award.

The pair founded Bridgit.

Bridgit is an app used by the construction industry to better manage and plan projects.

The awards were recently presented at a ceremony held at The International Conference Centre in Mississauga.

Ottawa-based Shopify, which has an office in Waterloo, was also awarded the honour for global entrepreneurship.

“We are honoured to recognize vibrant entrepreneurs and disruptors across Canada.” Chief Executive Director of Startup Canada, Anastasia Valentine said in a release. “Each recipient is highly contributing to building our nation's economy and to strengthening the entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem. It makes me proud to celebrate the talent and achievements of each one of our winners. Thank you for being community builders, and role models for future generations.”

The regional winners will now be evaluated for national awards, which will be announced in October.