2025 Tech Forward Awards Finalists Named After Nearly 200 Nominations

HALIFAX, NS – Digital Nova Scotia has unveiled the finalists for the 2025 Tech Forward Awards, presented by RBC, following nearly 200 nominations – the most in the event’s history. Since launching in 2016, and rebranded as the Tech Forward Awards in 2022, the event has become a key milestone for Nova Scotia’s tech sector, recognizing the people and companies driving innovation, inclusion, and growth.Across eight categories, the 2025 finalists reflect the breadth of Nova Scotia’s tech sector - world-class innovation, economic impact, and a commitment to building a more inclusive digital future.“Choosing finalists from a record number of nominations was no easy task, and that’s a great problem to have,” said Owen Sagness, CEO of Digital Nova Scotia. “It speaks to a sector that is growing in both talent and ambition, and the Tech Forward Awards give us a chance to celebrate the people and companies driving that momentum.”“Congratulations to all of this year’s finalists and nominees,” Sagness added. “Your work is pushing boundaries, creating opportunities, and showing the world what Nova Scotia’s tech sector can achieve.”Winners will be revealed at the Tech Forward Awards event on November 20, 2025, at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel.Talent Champion Award – Sponsored by: Humankind Global RecruitmentRecognizing a company or organization excelling in tech talent acquisition and retention, promoting Nova Scotia as a desirable career destination.

• REDspace Inc
• BeResponsive Media
• Maplewave

Tech for Good Award – Sponsored by: CGICelebrating organizations that use tech to drive positive social, political, environmental, or economic change in Nova Scotia.

• One North End Community Economic Development Society
• DeepSense
• iFormit Solutions Inc

Thinking Forward Award Recognizing individuals who dedicate their time to mentoring and inspiring future talent, encouraging careers in technology.

• Titilayomi Damiro
• Rita Orji
• Arad Gharagozli

Provincial Spotlight Award – Sponsored by: Invest Nova ScotiaHonoring companies outside of the Halifax Regional Municipality that have made a notable impact on Nova Scotia’s tech landscape.

• Good Robot Brewing Company
• Nova Social Media & Marketing
• 45Drives

Best of Tech 2024 Award – Sponsored by: Compugen Recognizing organizations that have achieved remarkable growth, developed innovative products, or secured major deals this year.

• MOC Bio Technologies Inc
• DeepSense
• Palladium MC

One to Watch Award – Sponsored by: Dash Hudson Highlighting emerging talent from underrepresented communities who are making waves in the tech industry.

• Irene Saliendra
• Vansh Sood
• Simran Arora

Role Model Award - Sponsored by: BDC Honoring individuals from underrepresented communities in tech who are driving diversity and inclusion, inspiring others to overcome barriers.

• Ezinne V.C Onwuekwe
• Jennifer LaPlante
• Nadia Ivanova

Diversity and Inclusion Champion Award - Sponsored by: Nova Scotia PowerRecognizing organizations that lead diversity and inclusion initiatives in Nova Scotia’s tech sector, creating welcoming and equitable workplaces.

• Tribe Network
• Turtle Island Technology Solutions Inc.
• Sea Change CoLab Consulting Inc.

For more information and to purchase tickets to the 2025 Tech Forward Awards, please click here. Media Contact Caitlin Patterson Director, Marketing & Communications Caitlin@digitalnovascotia.com(902) 401-6699