Alberta Innovates’ board has unanimously approved Dr. Mike Mahon as the organization’s permanent CEO, BetaKit has learned. The decision comes just days before the organization is set to reveal the next phase of its strategic plan to support Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. The formal announcement is scheduled for May 21, preceding the start of Inventures, Alberta Innovates’ flagship tech conference in Calgary.
Background and Leadership Experience
Dr. Mahon was appointed interim CEO last July during a “critical transition period” for Alberta Innovates. This appointment followed the immediate departure of former CEO Laura Kilcrease. With a strong background in leadership and research, Mahon previously served as president of the University of Lethbridge for 13 years and dean of the University of Alberta for 10 years. He also chaired Universities Canada.
Strategic Shift in Mission
According to Tony Williams, board chair of Alberta Innovates, the organization’s mission has evolved from creating an innovation ecosystem to harnessing and supporting the one that has been developed. “The original strategic plan was more about trying to grow an innovation ecosystem and create one here. Now there is an ecosystem that’s operational,” Williams explained. This shift necessitates a different leadership approach, focusing on collaboration and strategic partnerships.
Future Plans and Initiatives
Under Mahon’s permanent leadership, Alberta Innovates plans to support existing organizations within the tech ecosystem while acting as a connector for innovators across the province. The organization aims to establish national and international partnerships to further bolster Alberta’s innovation landscape. “What our plan is about is creating a unifying vision delivered by Alberta Innovates in collaboration with the ecosystem,” Mahon stated.
Fostering Tech Talent
Another crucial aspect of Alberta Innovates’ future plans involves fostering tech talent within the province. The organization seeks to attract workers and companies to build their businesses in Alberta. Mahon emphasized the province’s long-standing vision to grow by bringing in bright young talent.
Growth in Alberta’s Tech Ecosystem
The leadership change coincides with notable growth in Alberta’s tech sector. In the first quarter of 2025, the province ranked third nationally in venture capital investments, according to a report by the Canadian Venture Capital and Private Equity Association. The tech sector contributed $13 billion to Alberta’s GDP in 2023, as reported by ATB Financial.
Capitalizing on Emerging Opportunities
Both Mahon and Williams highlighted the current political climate and emerging opportunities in areas like aerospace and artificial intelligence as chances for Alberta to demonstrate leadership. “Things that are happening here are not just about the Edmonton economy or the Alberta economy or the Western Canadian economy,” Williams noted. “More and more, it’s about building something that goes national, goes global.”
Mahon and Williams will discuss Alberta Innovates’ forward plan on stage at Inventures 2025. The organization is set to finalize its business plan with the provincial government and other partners shortly after.
