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How Canada’s Marketers Are Shaping the Future
From agri-tech innovation to AI-driven strategy, here’s what’s making waves in marketing this week
In partnership with
Hey friend,
A little update before we get into this week’s newsletter:
SocialNext & Marketing News Canada have joined forces to bring you the most relevant and up-to-date information affecting Canada’s marketers. If you’re new here, welcome and if you are one of our weekly readers, thanks for being here! With that, let’s get into it…
With so much happening in the news these day, we thought why not take an opportunity to celebrate some of the shining stars from Canada’s marketing industry and speakers right here from our SocialNext community. Whether they are sharing their perspectives online, making impactful change or guiding the next generation, we are so grateful they are sharing their light with the world.
Coming Up in This Edition
Canada’s Marketing Moguls
Yes, Food Does Need Rescuing
If you’ve been subscribed for a few months or you were an attendee at SocialNext: Ottawa in January, you might have been introduced to the inspiring, Lourdes Juan, food rescue advocate and Founder of Knead Technologies. The impact of Knead Technologies (lovingly referred to as the Uber of food waste) efforts in redistributing over 100,000 lbs of food from the NFL Draft to non-profit organizations made waves across North America.
This past week, Lourdes headed to SXSW to pitch Knead Technologies on one of the biggest global stages for tech. And with the astounding impacts of redistributing over an estimated 2 billion pounds of food to those in need to benefit both people and the environment, the sole Alberta representative and one of only 5 Canadian companies took home the top prize in AgTech!
This work is so important and we are so proud to have a true hero get the recognition they deserve.
The Gardener Tending to Canada’s Growth Marketers
Over the weekend, International Women’s Day had us reflecting on all the incredible females who have paved the way to make space for feminine presence throughout global workforces. An amazing collection of women take the SocialNext stages to share their knowledge and inspire everyone to find marketing success.
Recognized as one of DMZ’s Women of the Year for 2025, Sarah Stockdale, Founder of Growclass, is supporting the next generation of marketers and entrepreneurs through her virtual Growth Marketing Certification and its accompanying community that has been deemed “the happiest place on the internet.”
We have a Growclass student among our SocialNext team and they are absolutely amazed by the knowledge, community and self-confidence that was gained. Sarah has created a space that is truly inclusive, supportive and uplifting, while remaining an empowering advocate for inclusivity and equality in the tech industry.
See Sarah take the stage at SocialNext: Toronto on April 25th.
Learning From Perspective
Marketing is at a turning point, and now more than ever, brands need to be bold, strategic, and forward-thinking. In a recent open letter to Canadian marketers, NP Digital’s Senior Vice President, Product, Basil Hatto urges leaders to take a step back and reflect on the challenges and opportunities shaping our industry today.
From rising economic pressures to the rapid evolution of AI and technology, marketing is no longer just about short-term wins—it’s about long-term brand building, innovation, and adaptability. The piece highlights a critical mindset shift: marketing should be viewed as an investment, not a cost. Brands that embrace technology, rethink market expansion, and prioritize customer relationships will be the ones that thrive.
In times of uncertainty, smart, creative marketing isn’t just important—it’s essential for standing out. As we look ahead, it’s time to move past outdated benchmarks and reimagine what’s possible.
Read the full article below and catch Basil on stage at SocialNext: Toronto!
The CanadianSME National Small Business Nominations Are In
AI has seemingly rocked our world, changing the way marketers work in more ways than one. For many, it can feel overwhelming and frankly a bit scary. So, how can we leverage AI without allowing it to takeover all our processes and brand personality? Enter: Emily Baillie, Marketing & AI Expert, Trainer & Professor. Her company Compass Content Marketing has received a nomination for CanadianSME National Small Business Awards 2024 for her efforts in travelling across the country (including SocialNext Events) to give Canada’s marketers the tools they need to successfully use AI as a partner in their marketing efforts!
Sign up for her weekly newsletter, Marketing Decoded, (proudly written personally, without AI) for tips and tricks to add to your toolkit.
Stay tuned for the CanadianSME National Small Business Awards 2024 winners announcements and catch Emily in the SocialNext Marketing Alliance community space!
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Speaking of AgTech…
The Future of Agri-Tech Marketing in Canada – Virtual Conference powered by SocialNext
Join industry leaders, marketing experts, and agri-business professionals for a fast-paced, insightful two-hour virtual event designed for Canada’s agri-tech marketing community.
Discover the latest strategies, tools, and innovations shaping the future of agri-tech marketing through expert-led sessions on AI, team-building, and marketing strategies for the next growing season. Plus, take advantage of interactive networking opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders.
🔹 Date: March 27th @ 10 AM - 1 PM MST/12 PM - 2 PM EST
🔹 Registration: The first 100 tickets at $39 CAD
Bonus: Funding opportunities are available through Digital Marketing Skills Canada to help agri-tech professionals upskill for 2025.
Upcoming Webinars, Workshops and Partner Events
Growclass Calgary Networking Night
The Growclass crew is gathering in YYC for a night of good chats and great people.
When: Thursday, March 13 @ 4:30 - 7:30 PM MST
Where: Work Nicer Coworking Rail Yards, 1206 20 Ave SE, Calgary - RSVP
Jelly Academy Presents: Discover the Future of Marketing
Five Jelly Academy Grads will have a 5-minute spotlight to share their perspectives on the future of the marketing industry. As a part of the experience, they will meet with a career coach beforehand to to help shape their presentation.
When: Wednesday, March 19th @ 11 AM MST/1 PM EST
Where: SocialNext Marketing Alliance - RSVP
Meet the Grads:
Chantria Tram, a passionate storyteller and performer, specializing in video content and strategies. Coached by Alexandra Toulche, Founder of REBL HOUSE INC.
Sara N, a confident business director dedicated to empowering people through education. Coached by Alison Demelis, Head of Enterprise Solutions Canada at LinkedIn.
Cedrick Louise Vinoya, a nonprofit activists fostering inclusivity and community. Coached by Nithya Ramachandra, President and CSO with T1 Agency.
Ashley Campbell, a passionate digital marketer in the nonprofit space specializing in data-driven strategies. Coached by Cait Milberry, Owner of Milberry Marketing & Strategy & Strange Grooves Podcast Host.
Patrick Earl, a storytelling marketing strategist focused on brand development. Coached by Paula Worthington, Founder & President of Worthington PR & Story.
Marketing Collaboration Myths: Aligning Agencies, Consultants & In-House Teams
Marketing Advisor and Brand Strategist, Daniel Francavilla, is debunking the biggest myths about marketing collaboration and reveals how to build a team that actually works. Whether you’re in-house, agency-side, or somewhere in between, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies to create a marketing ecosystem that drives real results.
When: Wednesday, March 26th @ 10 AM MST/12 PM EST
Where: SocialNext Marketing Alliance - RSVP
For the first time in SocialNext history, we have all our major events on sale at the same time! Plan your professional development for the year, in the Canadian city of your choice. From the Pacific to the Atlantic, we are bringing Canada's marketers together to stay ahead, stay connected and stay in Canada.
SocialNext: Toronto new speakers are live on our site! Don’t miss seeing these marketing legends take the stage on April 25th. Peep the line-up and get your tickets now.
Save $250 with Early Advanced Pricing for SocialWest in Calgary, June 11th-13th. Don’t wait, sale ends tomorrow!
There are still limited Pre-Sale Tickets available SocialEast. Grab the best price and we will see you in Halifax, September 25th & 26th.
SocialPacific is officially on sale! We’re headed back to North Vancouver on October 30th. Get your tickets at the best price, now.
Marketing News Weekly Roundup
Ontario School Boards' Lawsuit Against Meta, Snapchat, and TikTok Advances - Social media giants face a legal showdown as schools claim platforms are harming students’ mental health. What could this mean for the future of digital platforms in education?
Canadian Airlines Rethink U.S. Routes Amid Tariff Fallout - With new tariffs in play, airlines shift strategies. Porter pulls U.S. marketing, while Flair seizes the moment with bold deals. Who wins in this travel shake-up?
Canada to Impose 25% Tariffs on US$29.8B in U.S. Goods - Canada strikes back with hefty tariffs on U.S. imports, targeting steel, electronics, and more. What does this mean for businesses and consumers on both sides of the border?
Canadian Brands Navigate 'Buy Canadian' Trend - As national pride fuels consumer choices, brands look to cash in - but is it a smart move or a risky gamble? Experts weigh in.
Trends & Insights: Take Note
Marketing is evolving as the demand for speed and impact grows. Learn how top marketers are leveraging AI to stay ahead.
The Cheez-It Escape is bringing cheesy fun to Prince Edward County with a quirky, cheese-filled getaway from March 14-22, complete with playful activities and cheesy decor! Discover how this bold, snack-inspired adventure is setting the bar for experiential marketing.
The shift from B2B to H2H is reshaping marketing. Buyers now seek personalized, experience-driven content. Take a look at how Proof Experiences is leading the way with immersive storytelling and meaningful connections.
Millennials are shaping industries with their evolving priorities, influenced by the pandemic and shifting consumer habits. Understand how to engage this dynamic group by exploring the six key traits that define their purchasing behaviors.
Find Your Next Career Move
Growth Marketer, Spikeball (Remote: US or Canada)
Lead digital growth with paid media, influencer marketing, and social selling! Must have 5+ years of performance marketing experience and expertise in Amazon, TikTok, Meta, and Google.
Marketing & Fundraising Coordinator, President’s Choice Children’s Charity (Brampton, ON).
Support fundraising, event planning, and donor outreach. Ideal for candidates with marketing, events, or admin experience and a passion for nonprofit work!
Product Marketing Coordinator, iA Financial Group (Vancouver, BC)
Assist in developing marketing programs, promotions, and advertising. Requires 3-5 years of experience, strong analytical skills, and industry knowledge in insurance is a plus. French fluency is highly valued!
Account Coordinator, Peach Marketing (Dieppe, NB)
Manage campaigns, coordinate projects, and work with creative teams! Ideal for marketing or business grads with 1-2 years of experience and a passion for branding.
Catch you at one of our upcoming events!
Until next week,
Mike Morrison and the SocialNext Team
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