For many skiers, a day on the mountain is about freedom and fun, but for the team behind skiKrumb, it’s also about peace of mind. This Westbank-based startup has created the first and only radio-based GPS tracking device specifically designed for ski resorts. skiKrumb provides live location updates every 10 seconds on a 3D interactive map, making it easier for families, ski schools, and solo skiers to stay connected on the slopes, even without cell service.
The inspiration for skiKrumb came from CEO and Founder Keith MacIntyre’s harrowing experience when his son went missing on a mountain over a decade ago. MacIntyre explained that finding a solution was tougher than initially thought. “It turns out it’s not an easy problem to solve,” he said. “But nothing works as well as skiKrumb when it comes to finding peace of mind on the slopes.”
Unlike other tracking devices like AirTags, which require proximity to an iPhone to function, skiKrumb’s radio-based system can cover much larger areas of mountainous terrain. The company offers a dedicated device for reliable tracking throughout the ski day, regardless of mobile coverage. An app that works independently of the device is set to launch this winter, though the original hardware will remain the top choice for alpine use.
Since its launch, skiKrumb has grown to a team of seven and has partnered with seven major resorts, including Big White, Sun Peaks, Revelstoke, and SilverStar. The company has raised over $600,000 from investors and is launching a pilot project in Switzerland this winter, showing growing momentum.
The journey hasn’t been without challenges. MacIntyre admitted that self-funding the early stages was tough, but support from Accelerate Okanagan and success in competitions like New Ventures BC helped propel the company forward. As a BC Tech Startup of the Year finalist, skiKrumb sees this recognition as another step toward its mission: making GPS trackers as common as helmets on ski hills. “Every time we’re recognized, more people learn about the value of skiKrumb,” MacIntyre said. “And we’re always stoked for a good pitch competition.”
