MNP backs Edmonton Unlimited's pitch stage with three-year commitment

MNP is committing $135,000 over three years to sponsor the pitch stage at Edmonton Unlimited. Conversations about the partnership, which was officially unveiled at an event on Sept. 9, began several years ago, MNP officials told Taproot. Dustin Sundby, MNP's managing partner for the Edmonton region, said the partnership "feels so natural" given MNP's long-standing role in supporting entrepreneurs. "The MNP Pitch Stage represents more than sponsorship," he said. "It's a commitment to creating a place where Edmonton's most promising ideas can be shared."

Edmonton Unlimited has required a founder's pitch at every event it has hosted in its space this year, CEO Tom Viinikka told attendees. "The more opportunities that founders have to do that — to practice, to tell their story, and to put themselves and their ideas out there — the stronger they become," he said. Lelia Lawson, co-founder and chief technology officer of Zylotex, delivered the first official pitch from the newly named MNP Pitch Stage, bringing the year's tally to 469. Lawson, whose company makes advanced materials from agricultural waste, told the audience it is seeking $2.5 million to build a facility in Edmonton. "Thank you to Edmonton Unlimited and MNP for the invitation, and for creating a space where founders can share what they're building and connect with the people who can help move it forward," she posted.

The initial sponsorship provides $35,000 in the first year, $45,000 in the second, and $55,000 in the third, alongside financial literacy programming and office hours with MNP staff. Sundby said the firm has hosted sessions on capital-raising and cash-flow management, and its partners and team members contribute as angel investors, mentors, and advisors. MNP has been active in the growth of Edmonton's innovation community as a sponsor of ThresholdImpact Venture Mentoring Service and through its own gatherings, including the popular Tech the Halls holiday event. "This stage is a visible representation of MNP's commitment to the Edmonton ecosystem and innovation community," Viinikka said. He closed with a call-to-action for what comes after the pitch. "Find out what they're building, find out what they need or who they need to meet, and help that culture of pitch proliferate," he said.