As an Electronic Engineering Technology student at RRC Polytech, Mahmoud Alzaibaq co-founded Canada Computing with a vision: to make a difference in Winnipeg’s IT landscape.
He and classmate Abdullah Ollivierre built out the framework for their budding business in 2014—their final year in the program. They began by organizing workshops for students, introducing them to various electronics and microcontrollers through the local Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) chapter.
“We used to help friends, and neighbours with all kinds of computer issues. We made a lot of synergy when we were students, and Canada Computing came to fruition as a result,” said Alzaibaq. “We wanted to build something great. We realized there was a gap in the market – there were a handful of good IT companies here [in Winnipeg], but there was room for more.”
Today, their company has grown into a trusted partner for small and medium businesses both in Winnipeg and across Canada. Serving clients in over ten industries—including hospitality, legal, and medical—Canada Computing has developed over one hundred proprietary knowledge bases (KBs) to deliver fast, efficient solutions tailored to specific challenges. Protecting this intellectual property (IP) was critical for the company’s growth and sustainability.
The Challenges
Before joining the ElevateIP program, Alzaibaq felt he needed assistance in safeguarding some of the company’s intangible assets.
“We lacked structured agreements like Master Service Agreements (MSAs) and Service Level Agreements (SLAs), which made engaging with clients and subcontractors legally and operationally risky.”
As a whole, Canada Computing embraces collaborative idea sharing and education. However, within the IP ecosystem, the company recognized an opportunity to deepen its knowledge to better position itself for scaling into broader markets in the future.
The ElevateIP Solution
Though Canada Computing wasn’t part of North Forge’s Founders Program, the not-for-profit knew Canada Computing was building a business with proprietary knowledge worth protecting.
Through North Forge’s recommendation, Alzaibaq joined the ElevateIP program, and it proved to be a game-changer. Through ElevateIP, Canada Computing received invaluable support to address these issues head-on.
“ElevateIP was great. I’m so grateful for the program,” said Alzaibaq. “The law firm we engaged with, Baker McKenzie, helped us to really raise our awareness around intellectual property… what is classified as IP, trade secrets… They also helped polish some of the agreements we had with our customers, and it was a great outcome. Thanks to Mr. Conrad Flaczyk and his team, We learned a lot.”
ElevateIP’s tailored guidance included conducting an IP and privacy audit, which identified critical gaps and provided a roadmap for action. With expert assistance, Canada Computing:
Drafted and strengthened essential legal agreements, such as NDAs and MSAs, ensuring robust IP protection and legal compliance.
Formalized privacy and data security policies, including a website privacy policy and threat vulnerability assessments.
The program taught Canada Computing’s team about IP-related elements that many new founders wouldn’t think to consider.
“They talked to us about all the various components, and the guidance we received significantly increased our understanding of IP ownership, legal frameworks, and best practices for privacy and data security,” he said.
The program taught the team about IP-related elements that many new founders wouldn’t think to consider.
The privacy awareness training was especially helpful. It educated the team on the specifics of what privacy law protects—personal information like names, titles, email addresses, cookies and financial transaction data are on that list.
Further education on the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and the potential transformation it’s going through under Bill C-27 was important too, as it will shape many of the regulations relating to IT for Canadian businesses.
The Impact of ElevateIP
The impact of ElevateIP on Canada Computing has been profound. With streamlined operations and standardized legal frameworks, the company has reduced risks while bolstering customer trust. Its proprietary knowledge bases and IT troubleshooting procedures, now securely protected, serve as key differentiators in a competitive market.
Moreover, by adopting disaster recovery plans and privacy impact assessments, Canada Computing has enhanced its appeal to sophisticated clients such as banks and hospitals.
Reflecting on his experience, Alzaibaq noted a dramatic shift in his understanding of IP.
“Before the program, I’d rate my knowledge of IP at 3 out of 10. After ElevateIP, I’d say it’s an 8 out of 10. The resources, templates, and legal expertise provided through the program were exceptional,” he said. “ElevateIP is a must for entrepreneurs looking to protect their innovations and navigate the complex landscape of IP and privacy laws. The program’s tailored support ensures businesses can confidently scale with a solid foundation in IP protection.”
Looking Ahead
Thanks to ElevateIP, Canada Computing is now poised for continued growth. With its intellectual property and privacy protections firmly in place, the company is better equipped to fulfill its mission of delivering innovative IT solutions across Canada while maintaining the trust of its diverse client base.
For efficient IT solutions tailored to your business, visit canadacomputing.ca.
North Forge is an ElevateIP Recipient: a national program of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, leading in intellectual property support for startups in Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
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