Artificial Intelligence for Audience Insights
News release
Halifax-based Affinio Inc. commercializes analytical tool to accelerate Atlantic Canada's digital economy
December 20, 2018 – Halifax, NS – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Digital transformation affects the way we work, play, do business, shop and even the way we choose to experience the world. Data-based technologies help companies gain competitive intelligence, develop creative content and contribute to the economy by providing valuable insights into consumer interests. That is why the Government of Canada is supporting Affinio Inc. with a project to commercialize a solution that will help businesses find the right customers for their products and services.
By analyzing first and third party data directly from companies, Affinio Inc. helps businesses like Unilever, Universal, Sony and Netflix engage with customers and create tailored ads that will connect with their target markets.
Today, Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism and Member of Parliament for Halifax, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), announced $340,710 to help Affinio commercialize its software-as-a-service platform, which will help advertising firms better understand and engage global audiences.
This repayable investment, made through ACOA's Business Development Program, builds on commitments made by the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic Provinces to drive economic growth in the region through the Atlantic Growth Strategy, which supports strategic investments in initiatives that build on the region's competitive advantages, such as its strong export potential, growing innovation network and skilled workforce.
"To inspire Canada to become a nation of innovators, we need to celebrate, reflect on and reward Canadian successes, such as achieving global export and international standards. Together with new technologies and innovative approaches to business, we can evolve Canada into a digital society with creative individuals making creative solutions to the benefit of all Canadians and the world."
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
"The Government of Canada is proud to support Atlantic Canada's digital economy. Affinio's technology provides a vast digital market opportunity for advertisers who want to connect with customers, while simultaneously branding Atlantic Canada a world-class technology hub and creating quality jobs for Atlantic Canadians in the process."
- Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism and Member of Parliament for Halifax
"We're thrilled with this investment and ACOA's commitment to help tech companies like Affinio continue to grow in Nova Scotia. Our global customers are proof that great technology has no boundaries, and we're proud to host many of those global customers and partners at our headquarters in the city that we call home."
- Tim Burke, CEO, Affinio Inc.
Quick facts
Affinio's advanced social network affinity engine groups users into clusters based on the things they have in common, revealing patterns and relationships within big data sets to help companies access information, understand their data environments and develop marketing plans based on user trends.
Affinio Inc. has certification for compliance with International Standards Organization (ISO) 27001, an internationally recognized standard for keeping user data secure.
The contribution will allow Affinio Inc. to train internal sales staff, create awareness and maintain international standards for its technology.
