It is amazing how fast time is moving – what a year it has been! For Alberta’s tech sector – so much has been accomplished, and also so much is yet to be achieved.

So as we turn to the Christmas season, my family continually reminds me to make my Christmas List. I then started thinking, what would I put on a Christmas List for Alberta’s Tech Sector?

There are certainly some big items, but I thought I would start with some “Stocking Stuffers” – things that would make life a little easier for Alberta’s Tech Entrepreneurs:

1) Universal “Alberta-wide” (or local) 2-hour Pre-Paid Parking Passes

• Passes could be distributed by Chambers of Commerce, providing an easy way to visit downtowns or post-secondary institutions without needing apps, zone entries, or managing license plates.
• They would eliminate barriers to quick visits, especially when using rental cars or unfamiliar systems.
• Alternative voucher, similar to a “taxi chit,” to cover fees or fines.

2) Quiet Drop-in Meeting Spaces

• It would be great to have an app that maps these options across Alberta.
• The app could offer the first three 20-minute sessions for free.
• It could function like a “Parking App,” with similar pricing—such as $5/hour,
• Option: Include a room with a coffee maker (e.g., at $10/hour).

3) Thanking and Inspiring Your Team, while Building Alberta’s Tech Sector

An ever-popular gift, celebrating Alberta’s tech community with ASTech Award-winning, entrepreneur-designed “I Heart Alberta Tech” T-shirts, mugs, and coasters. Available by ordering on-line.

4) Any other “Stocking Stuffer” or Christmas items that come to mind for you? 

Please do drop us a line,  and provide suggestions on what we can offer through our Membership Program, to help grow Alberta’s tech sector.

Merry Christmas everyone – and see you soon,

Gail J. Powley, P.Eng
Executive Director, ASTech Awards
President, Technology Alberta
[email protected]