At 8 Bit Cortex, we’re more than a team. We’re a collective of mission-driven strategists, scientists, and builders united by a common purpose: to help changemakers do what they do best, better.
We bring together expertise in data science, impact measurement, fundraising strategy, and technology development to empower non-profits, startups, and community organizations across Canada. Our backgrounds are diverse, but our commitment is shared—delivering smart, practical, and measurable solutions that accelerate real-world change.
Our work is rooted in collaboration. Whether we’re helping an organization secure non-dilutive funding or designing custom tools to evaluate program effectiveness, we approach every partnership with curiosity, rigour, and care. We believe that data can do more than measure progress, it can spark it.
Chief Executive Officer / Co-Founder
Dr. Ty McKinney is a Neuroscientist and Grant Strategist focused on turning research into real-world solutions. He leads vision and innovation at 8 Bit Cortex, helping organizations measure impact and reduce burnout through data-driven tools.
Director of Innovation & Operations
Dreden manages fundraising strategy, grant writing, and internal operations. With a background in biomedical sciences and scientific research, he blends research insight with practical execution to support clients and drive growth.
Chief Technology Officer / Co-Founder
Araz leads tech development at 8 Bit Cortex, building systems that make data collection simple and engaging. His background in neuroscience and data science fuels the company’s AI-enhanced tools.
Zanika supports grant writing and research for client projects. She helps non-profits and startups align their goals with funding opportunities and craft compelling applications.
Navpreet Singh is a Computer Science student at the University of Calgary with a focus on network systems, automation, and software development. He is passionate about using technology to improve processes and make work more efficient.
Jason Tieh is a Mechanical Engineer and Software Engineering Masters candidate at the University of Calgary. He blends mechanical design and software development with a passion for automation and innovation, aiming to create intelligent tools and smart engineering solutions.
Prosper is a fifth-year Software Engineering student at the University of Calgary and an AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate. He has hands-on experience in cloud computing, automation, and full-stack development, building secure and scalable systems using Python, Terraform, Docker, and Salesforce. Prosper is passionate about applying technology to solve real-world challenges and drive innovation.
We’ve seen how many purpose-driven organizations struggle to quantify their value and access the funding they deserve. Our team exists to close that gap. By combining advanced analytics, customizable assessments, and AI-supported grant writing, we help our clients turn ambition into action, and action into impact.
Clarity: We distill complexity into clear, actionable insights.
Innovation: We embrace tools and technologies that help our clients stay ahead.
Integrity: We treat every project as a partnership, not a transaction.
Impact: We care about outcomes, not just outputs.
If you’re looking for a team that understands the unique challenges of scaling purpose-driven work and knows how to navigate them, you’re in the right place.
Let’s build something meaningful, together.
