Community Connect 2026

ABOUT: Community Connect

A monthly networking lunch hosted by Platform Calgary — designed to bring together the people building Calgary’s tech ecosystem. Originally created for Platform member companies to learn from one another, it has grown into a space where founders, program alumni, coaches, and partners come together to share insights, celebrate wins, and support each other’s growth. Whether you're part of the Calgary tech sector or just getting curious, we invite a limited number of non-members to join us, meet the community, and experience the momentum for yourself. 

COMING UP NEXT 

APRIL FEATURE: COOLIT SYSTEMS

On April 16, 2026, join Platform Calgary for an exclusive fireside chat that offers an unprecedented "insider" look at the journey to this historic sale. This conversation brings together two leaders who were instrumental in the company’s trajectory: CoolIT Systems Founder Brydon Griel and COO Patrick McGinn. 

Moderated by Dean Prodan, Board Chair, Platform Calgary., this conversation will go beyond the press release. We’ll explore the high-stakes evolution of a hardware giant—from the grit required to navigate 25 years of innovation to the strategic moves that positioned Calgary at the center of the global AI infrastructure.

We’ll discuss the "scaling playbook" that took CoolIT to the world stage, the impact of strategic global partnerships, and the boardroom decisions that led to a life-changing liquidity event for hundreds of Calgary-based employees.

🔹 The AI Infrastructure Blueprint: How CoolIT became the standard for cooling 5 million+ GPUs and 7 of the world’s top 10 supercomputers. 

🔹 The Scaling Playbook: Lessons from a 25-year journey that culminated in a 25x capacity expansion to meet the "insatiable" demand of the AI era. 

🔹 Boardroom Decisions: An insider’s look at the strategic moves and global partnerships (including KKR and NVIDIA) that defined this historic exit.

April Community Connect is proudly supported by our event sponsor, Caravel Law. 

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Note: This event is designed for Platform Calgary Member Companies to connect, network, learn, and celebrate wins to help startups drive impactful outcomes for their business. We’re offering limited registration for the general public, with a focus on fostering meaningful connections within the vibrant startup community. 

Please note that registration is mandatory for this event. We look forward to seeing you there!

Have a tech startup in Calgary? Become a Platform Calgary Member today!

 A few helpful tips to prepare for the event:

• The main entrance to the Platform Innovation Centre (407 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2K7) is via the revolving doors on 9th avenue directly across the street from the Central Library.
• There is plenty of paid parking located at the Platform Innovation Centre parkade. 
• Pay stations can be found on the main floor of the East or West entrance. We recommend you park on the East side for easy access to the event.
• Or you can make a payment through the Calgary Parking Authority app.
• For those biking, bike racks can be found on the west side of the building.
• Accessibility: If you require accessibility assistance during the event, please notify security or event staff upon arrival. Our team will work to accommodate your needs, including providing assistance with mobility, seating, or other support

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By registering for this event, you acknowledge that Platform Calgary (the organization), as well as third-party organizations hosting activities in the shared public spaces of Platform Innovation Centre (the venue), may capture photos, audio, and video recordings. These materials may include your image or likeness and may be used for promotional purposes, including marketing, social media, and other communications by the respective organizations.

Since the event is held in a public space with multiple users, complete exclusion from photography or recording cannot be guaranteed.

The collection and use of personal information complies with Alberta’s PIPA and Canada’s PIPEDA. For more details on how we handle personal information, please see our Privacy Policy.

If you have any concerns, please feel free to reach out to the team at communications@platformcalgary.com.

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As a non-profit, Platform Calgary is dedicated to fostering a vibrant tech ecosystem. Proceeds generated through our programs and events directly support our mission, enabling us to enhance Calgary's standing as a premier destination for tech innovation and entrepreneurship. We appreciate your continued support!