Welcome to this week’s Midweek Memo. In this issue, learn about the anxieties and challenges of being a founder, the thriving blue economy at the Victoria Forum, and an $11.8 investment into Victoria housing rental units.

Now onto today’s briefing. It’s 785 words: a three-minute read.

By the way, if you're not already subscribed, you can fix that here.

Redbrick makes it official with new certification

Redbrick, a portfolio of software companies, this week announced its official designation as a Certified B Corporation (B Corp). Redbrick explained that it is acutely aware of the profound impact of climate change and social inequity and recognizes the tech industry’s inadvertent contribution to these issues.

“We're focused on leading by example and we want to show the world, especially other tech companies, that business can be purposeful and profitable,” said Tobyn Sowden, Redbrick’s CEO. “Becoming a B Corp means Redbrick has made a binding commitment to social and environmental leadership, but it’s a direction that we were already headed in and really passionate about — so if anything, B Corp brings our vision for the future into focus.”

Pointing to its dedication to creating opportunities that foster inclusion and diversity, the company highlighted its wellness days, volunteer opportunities, health benefits, education, and work-study programs. Redbrick has also pledged to allocate a portion of its profits toward advancing these objectives and promoting sustainable business practices.

The Victoria-based company has been named one of Canada’s Top Small and Medium Employers for five consecutive years.

📰 More Victoria innovation news

😱 Do I have to be scared: This week’s VIATEC Member Spotlight focused on Joni CEO and co-founder Linda Biggs. Biggs highlighted the anxieties that many founders share around dreaming too big or being right for the job.

🌅I’m about to drive in the ocean: Ocean Networks Canada’s Kate Moran will be speaking at the Victoria Forum next week. Moran will take part in a roundtable discussion on the blue economy.

👀 I’m taking over: B.C.’s Rental Protection Fund announced the acquisition of 68 affordable rental units by the Greater Victoria Housing Society; a deal worth $11.8 million.

🕴️Tech jobs of the week

Find your next career:

• Program Manager at W Venture Growth Program

• Technical Support Analyst at VertiGIS

• IT Technical Analyst - Project Coordinator at Royal Roads University

Hiring in Victoria? Reply to this email and let us know!

📅 Upcoming events

August 23 | VIATEC Summer Tech Together

A giant inflatable carnival is obviously the perfect way to spend a Friday afternoon. Bring your family and watch them run amok, releasing all the tension of the week on the bubble-soccer field. If someone needs a time-out, just send them over to the archery VR station while you enjoy some BBQ.

August 27 | Supabase Meetup

Supabase Launch Week is coming to Victoria! Join and celebrate Launch Week with the community. Take part in this tech get-together, networking opportunities, talks, and of course, swag!

August 27 | Demystifying AI: Planning Session

AI is a hot topic both in and outside of the tech world, and rightfully so! We’ve heard from our learner community that it can be overwhelming and scary to start understanding it, so we decided to create some content and space to start this conversation with our community. We want learners to start exploring the power of AI in ways that are most relevant to them and their career goals. Everyone should (and can!) understand how AI works to use it ethically and effectively – and we can do that together.

August 28 | Geeky Girls Patio Party 2024

Join iWIST (Island Women in Science and Technology) for its annual patio party! This year, Ocean Networks Canada (ONC) is hosting. The company’s CEO Kate Moran will make a special welcome and show off the work being done by ONC to support ocean tech.

Have an upcoming event? Reply to let us know.

🙋 I need a…

We at Victoria Tech Journal know you, our community, pretty well. Are you searching for someone in your field to have coffee with, a hiring hookup, a lead on local investors, or suggestion for a great Victoria tech tool? Whatever you’re hunting for, let us know. We’ll post it in this section and make it happen.

• A recent University of Victoria graduate is looking for a full-time position as a data analyst. He is currently working part time in the London Drugs tech department.

Email your requests by hitting reply on this email.