Beyond the Pitch: What Makes Industry Say Yes

What makes industry say yes? Explore how Manitoba companies turn promising ideas into practical solutions, partnerships and business growth. Beyond the Pitch: What Makes Industry Say Yes A promising idea opens the conversation. What helps turn that conversation into industry adoption?Join us at Tech Thursday Superpowered by Manitoba Innovates for Beyond the Pitch: What Makes Industry Say Yes, bringing together perspectives from university research, entrepreneurship and regional economic development to explore how Manitoba businesses move from promising innovations to commercial success. Meet the panel speakers: • Jitendra Paliwal - VP Research and Innovation, University of Winnipeg >> Exploring how research and collaboration can align with industry needs to build partnerships with practical impact. • Casey Forsyth - CEO and Founder, FeedFlo >> Sharing a founder’s experience turning a business challenge into a technology solution through customer collaboration, testing and a clear value proposition. • Alexander Lavoie - Industry Policy Manager, Rural Economic Development Manitoba >> Offering insights into market opportunities, investment considerations and the conditions that help Manitoba businesses grow. • Dean Staples (Moderator) - SVP Innovation & Industry Development, Manitoba Innovates >> Guiding the conversation across research, entrepreneurship and industry, Dean will explore how Manitoba Innovates connects businesses with the expertise, resources and partnerships that help turn promising ideas into commercial opportunities. The conversation will examine what drives industry to adopt new solutions, including return on investment, risk, cost, integration and market demand. Panelists will explore barriers involving capital, procurement, talent and validation, alongside examples of effective collaboration. Founders and established businesses can gain practical insights into demonstrating value, working with customers and building partnerships. Event details: • Date: Thursday, November 5, 2026 • Time: 4:30 PM–6:30 PM • Venue: Saddlery on Market Bring your questions, meet others working through similar challenges and explore what your next business connection could make possible. Reserve your spot and join the conversation.