SALES:
MARCH NETWORKS
DECEMBER 2019
March Networks has built a global business with its IP video software and systems. It works with certified partners and customers worldwide to transform video into business intelligence that can be used to enhance security, mitigate risk and reduce losses from theft and fraud. All of this made the company a natural fit for a brand-new market – cannabis retail. March Networks set a goal last year to establish itself as a recognized leader for cannabis security in North America. Led by a dedicated cannabis market manager, the sales and marketing effort targeted both large cannabis companies as well a growing crowd of startups that continues to emerge as more U.S. states legalize cannabis. To do this, March set out to illustrate the differences between do-it-yourself security products and commercial video surveillance equipment, combining appearances at trade shows with educational efforts. March Networks also consulted with startups to help them get a handle on the legislative requirements for cannabis security. In addition, the company developed a channel partner network, took to the pages of cannabis industry publications and engaged in digital advertising and content marketing. The marketing message focused on reliability and compliance – two pillars of March Networks’ solution that resonate with cannabis businesses since they are required by law to keep video surveillance records for a set period of time. The result? Growth in the cannabis market has yielded record revenues and profits. More than 100 cannabis locations now deploy March Networks products.
OBJ.CA
32
SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP:
ECOEQUITABLE
French Catholic nun Lucile Champagne founded EcoEquitable as a co-op sewing program in 2002 on one principle – work creates dignity. This principle has continued to guide EcoEquitable through its evolution into a full-fledged non-profit charitable organization. It has become
a “hub for sewing and social justice” where the communal activity of sewing is used to teach a marketable skill as well as create a safe and nurturing environment in which to find peer support and mentorship. “Our vision was to build a world in which dignity and the unique gifts of each person are valued and promoted – a community whose members stand with one another in justice and hope,” said Champagne. EcoEquitable achieves this by working to address three issues (in line with the UN’s sustainable development goals): gender equality; good jobs and economic growth; and responsible consumption. The goal is to empower women to achieve economic independence and become leaders of thriving communities in the hope this leads to a more sustainable and harmonious future. This includes a big focus on supporting women who are newcomers to Canada. How does EcoEquitable define economic independence? It “means the freedom to live your life and be yourself. It means you can provide for you and your family. You can more fully apply yourself to the things that matter most. It means you aren’t just surviving – you’re thriving.”
SUSTAINABILITY:
GIATEC SCIENTIFIC With all the focus these days on greenhouse gas emissions (the big one being carbon dioxide) and their role in climate change, it might come as a surprise to learn that concrete is one of the primary global sources. That’s right – this ubiquitous building material that has been around since Roman times is a big contributor to climate change. The estimate is that concrete production and use accounts for five to eight per cent of the carbondioxide emissions from human activity. The team at Ottawa’s Giatec Scientific is out to change that. Giatec’s smart Internet of Thingsbased technologies use wireless sensors and mobile apps for real-time monitoring of concrete. The goals are to ensure an optimal mix for longlasting durability and deliver more accurate measuring to limit over-