Futures
A research & advisory studio
Turning insight into impact.
We help companies uncover opportunities through research, market insight, and sustainable strategy.
About Maskwa Futures
Maskwa Futures is a Métis-founded research and advisory studio based in Calgary, Alberta. We help organizations move from research to real-world implementation through strategic thinking, market intelligence, and funding strategy.
Our work bridges evidence and action by using systems thinking, sustainability insights, and Indigenous-informed approaches—enabling clients to uncover opportunities, reduce risk, and build long-term value.
We specialize in renewable and clean energy, sustainable food systems, agri-tech, and public policy and education. We work across sectors to design solutions that are economically viable, environmentally responsible, and culturally grounded—helping organizations integrate sustainability and innovation across strategy, research, and execution.
Rooted in Calgary’s innovation ecosystem, our entrepreneurial experience shows that meaningful change happens when strategy is informed by evidence, collaboration, and deep respect for the systems that sustain us.
From market analysis to impact mapping, we turn insight into strategy—and strategy into measurable results.
What the name means to us
Based our Métis founder’s childhood nickname, “bear,” Maskwa was chosen because in Michif (the Métis language) Maskwa means “bear,” and in Cree culture the bear represents strength, resilience, and a deep connection to the land. Thus, our logo embodies the balance between respecting nature and sharing Indigenous cultural through teachings, showcasing a commitment to sustainability, cultural preservation, and community support.
The word “Futures” was chosen with purpose to pair with Maskwa because it signals our promise: to provide strategic, evidence-led solutions—grounded in research, sustainable in practice, and geared to create real impact—so we can help organizations chart their path forward and build a future we can all look forward to
Our Sevices
Market Assessments
Evidence-based insight for informed decisions
We deliver comprehensive research to help you define your current or future operating environment—analyzing market size, customer segments, competitors, policy frameworks, and supply chain structures. The goal of each assessment is to provide you with the evidence needed to understand current conditions, benchmark performance, and identify emerging trends before investing.
Opportunity Briefs & Non-Dilutive Finance
Turn market insight into action.
Whether you are building on new research or existing knowledge, our Opportunity Reports aim to translate information into strategy. We assess market and company data to evaluate and develop a strategy for customer–market fit, risk, and readiness. Additionally, we map non-dilutive funding opportunities that support both immediate and long-term growth, recognizing that the funding and fiscal landscape are equally important to consider. The result is a clear, data-backed roadmap outlining where—and how—to pursue your next opportunity.
Ecosystem & Impact Mapping
Mapping relationships to strengthen collaboration and investment
We map relationships, opportunities, and barriers across regions and sectors to reveal how systems function and where change is possible. Our visual ecosystem briefs help funders, policymakers, and innovation hubs understand network dynamics and design initiatives that strengthen collaboration and investment, all tailored to your industry and goals. We align objectives, uncover partnership potential, and build coordinated, actionable plans that drive long-term impact.
Strategic Guidance & Custom Research Projects
Tailored insight for complex or emerging challenges.
We design and execute bespoke research and advisory projects across the agri-food, clean technology, and innovation sectors. Our work integrates sustainability principles, Indigenous-informed systems thinking, and applied strategy to deliver insights that drive long-term, measurable impact.
Who We Work With
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Startups & Scale-Ups – Developing fundable growth strategies and validating new markets or technologies.
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Established Organizations – Optimizing operations, exploring sustainable diversification, or designing new business models within the sustainability, food, agriculture, health tech, and clean-tech sectors.
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Indigenous & Community Organizations – Building initiatives that strengthen local economies and reflect cultural and environmental priorities.
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Universities & Research Institutes – Translating research into commercialization, partnerships, and policy impact.
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Public & Non-Profit Sectors – Using research, systems mapping, and stakeholder alignment to design and evaluate programs that deliver measurable outcomes.
What Sets Us Apart
1
Evidence → Action
We don’t just hand over reports; we synthesize findings into prioritized decisions, timelines, and next steps. We bridge evidence with action, helping you understand not just what’s possible, but what’s practical.
2
Sustainability & Indigenous Focus
Our work is grounded in sustainable development principles and informed by Indigenous ways of knowing. This approach emphasizes balance, long-term value, and respect for both communities and the environment.
3
Collaborative Partnerships
We believe in collaborative partnerships, working closely with you to achieve meaningful and impactful outcomes for your organization. We work alongside clients through ongoing facilitation, workshops, and communication to ensure clarity, buy-in, and measurable results.
4
Systems Thinking –
We see the full picture—markets, policy, and people—and identify where change will have the greatest impact.
