We are the people creating the unique tools to advance dignity in the workplace. Our mission is to provide an intelligent data platform derived from human insights.
Tell us about yourself?
My background is in Human and Social Development and Law (B.A., Juris Doctor of Law). I’ve been working in DEI consulting for over 15 years. I got into this line of work because I’m passionate about diversity personally and professionally. There is such a huge need to support diversity and inclusion initiatives. Just think – we’ve been talking about diversity for decades, but we only nudge behaviours forward bit by bit. At Dignii, we want to change that. We want to help companies advance dignity. Seeing our customers make those positive changes because of the unique tools and advice we provide them with is incredibly satisfying.
If you could go back in time a year or two, what piece of advice would you give yourself?
Higher a bigger sales team and trust remote working. We took what we thought was a risk working remotely, but it’s paid off. We are still able to support our own staff and customers.
What problem does your business solve?
Companies struggle to collect and analyze diversity and engagement data needed to advance diversity and inclusion. Employees are reluctant to share personal details about the differences in their lived experiences – but employers need to understand those differences in order to support employees and their needs. Employers also need to understand who is not represented in their workforce. We solve that problem for our customers and support them on their DEI journey to inclusion and better business results.
What is the inspiration behind your business?
We believe that people come to the DEI conversation for three reasons: the moral sense of doing good, the strong business case supporting DEI, and the legal obligations we have in Canada to protect human rights in employment. No matter why people come to the conversation – we are inspired when we see customers realize the benefits of support DEI extends to anyone and everyone.
What is your magic sauce?
We use human insights to provide an intelligent data platform. Our professional and lived experiences, combined with our understanding of the employment landscape (legally and interpersonally), sets us in the best position to support our customers in achieving their goals.
What is the plan for the next 5 years? What do you want to achieve?
Our vision for the next five years is to build out our team. We have also been working to enter the U.S. market and anticipate an increase in U.S.-based customers.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far?
We have faced a number of challenges as a lesbian female-owned tech company. We certainly stand out at the table. Fundraising also had its challenges, so we bootstrapped everything we do – which thankfully has worked really well for us. NRC-IRAP has provided us with a lot of support and resources, which has helped us tremendously.
How can people get involved?
We look forward to talking with anyone interested in learning how we can advance dignity in their workplace. Whether it’s our software or consulting, we have the solutions to unlock your DEI success. You can visit us at www.dignii.com or email our CEO Elisabeth directly at [email protected].