Tactical Diversity: REDSpace
Thursday, July 27, 2017
REDspace creates innovative ways to deliver rich media content and engages users with interactive experiences. Its client list is a who’s-who of the entertainment and technology world, including Turner, Fox, NBC, CBS, Viacom, and IBM.
Why Nova Scotia?
Nova Scotia is the “why” for REDspace. Access to a motivated, highly educated, and innovative workforce, and the competitive cost of doing business made locating here a smart decision, but CEO Mike Johnston says there’s another, more profound reason:
“No other digital interactive company works at the level we do. There’s something Nova Scotia kitchen party about what we do, like ‘come sit around the fire and we’ll figure out your problem for you.’ It’s a level of skill paired with a genuine interest in doing right by a client. Our customers in places like New York don’t find it anywhere else.”
What challenges have you faced and overcome?
REDspace has been expanding with a move into corporate learning and simulations for the aerospace and defence sector. The company faces a steep learning curve as it tries to understand a new landscape, and navigate new export regulations and government procurement processes.
Nova Scotia has the right mix of post-secondary education, established multinational firms, and an active startup community that results in a well-connected, global, cluster. Learn more about globally competitive ICT in Nova Scotia.
Where NSBI comes in.
“NSBI is great where the rubber meets the road. They’re always trying to help us do better and shine a light on what we’re doing. The main thing NSBI really helps me with is business development, and being out in the market. They have trade missions, they have support programs, they get to the key industry events worldwide, and they have experts who are good at matchmaking and making introductions. They were helpful to me when I was smaller and trying to expand. But even now as we move into the aerospace and defence sector, they’re helping me understand the landscape. They’re helping me take success in other industries, and diversify laterally into other places.”
A future in Nova Scotia.
REDspace is export-driven, with most of its work outside Nova Scotia. It continues to build on its strengths, both abroad as the company capitalizes on its advantages to enter new markets, and at home as REDspace continues to build a diverse team that shares a unique work ethic.
Interested in export? Nova Scotia Business Inc. is dedicated to supporting the growth of business in Nova Scotia and our team of Regional Business Development Advisors is available to assess your needs and provide practical advice on taking your next steps toward growth in global markets.
Nova Scotia businesses like REDspace are focused on building a strong and thriving community for today and for generations to come. We’re proud to be able to support them. Our 2016 - 2017 Annual Report tells their stories. View the full report.