Pocketed
Brianna Blaney and Aria Hahn Founded Pocketed after identifying a critical gap in the entrepreneurial ecosystem: the difficulty in accessing grant funding. Their platform streamlines the process of finding and applying for grants, helping unlock billions in non-dilutive capital for small businesses.
Like many women entrepreneurs, they faced significant barriers to success. "Money is one of the biggest barriers to innovation and entrepreneurship, especially for women and equity-seeking groups," they explain. With just 4% of venture capital going to women-founded companies in Canada, many promising businesses struggle to get off the ground.
The Forum became an essential partner in their growth journey. As Finalists of The Odlum Brown Forum Pitch 2021/2022, they received a $25,000 prize package that fueled their expansion. "The $25,000 in funds significantly contributed to growing our platform to help more businesses access grants and tax credits," Brianna says. Beyond funding, The Forum provided invaluable mentorship and connections that shaped their business model.
Since their win, Pocketed has helped more than 17,000 businesses access over $200 million in grants and tax credits, expanded into the United States, and built a user base where 52% identify as having a female founder. In March 2025, just three years after their Forum Pitch win, Pocketed was acquired by Deloitte Canada—a remarkable achievement that demonstrates how The Forum's support can help women entrepreneurs transform vision into reality.