Two decades ago, iON embarked on a journey with a clear mission: to safeguard businesses against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. As we mark our 20th anniversary this year, we take a moment to reflect on our remarkable journey of innovation, resilience, and our unwavering commitment to cybersecurity excellence.
Early Days
In the early 2000s, the cybersecurity landscape was vastly different from the dynamic arena we navigate today. In 2003 our founders – Rob and Scott Zagorsky – recognized the emerging need to secure computer systems and networks and founded iON. Hailing from a farm in southern Alberta, the brothers understood the impact of today’s actions on tomorrow’s results. On our first day of operations, they sponsored a Check Point training session, laying the foundation for developing a strong cybersecurity community and fostering connections in Calgary. With credit cards in hand and firewalls loaded onto their trucks, their commitment and resourcefulness knew no bounds. These efforts paid off, and in 2006, iON was recognized as one of Canada’s fastest-growing startups.
Adapting to an Evolving Threat Landscape
Over the subsequent decade, cyber threats became more sophisticated and introduced new challenges. Yet, iON remained steadfast in its commitment to innovation. We continuously adapted our strategies, technologies, and services to effectively counter these emerging threats.
As we broadened our vendor connections and expanded our client base across BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, our team continued to invest in customer advisory groups and community events. For instance, in collaboration with the Calgary Police Tech Crimes Unit, we co-hosted cybersecurity workshops to promote awareness and resilience.
Significant Milestones
By 2014, we had the privilege of serving some of Canada’s largest organizations. We also secured our first multi-national industrial control systems (ICS) security project, demonstrating our ability to deliver top-notch cybersecurity services on a global scale. The subsequent year, we unveiled our Customer Care Platform, transforming how our clients manage their cybersecurity investments by providing them with valuable insights.
These achievements were recognized through our inclusion in the Canadian Business Growth 500 rankings from 2015 to 2019 and by being named among The Globe & Mail’s Canada’s Top Growing Companies in 2021. Additionally, in 2021, we formed the Calgary Corporate Cyber Alliance to further strengthen our commitment to the local cybersecurity ecosystem.
Growth & Innovation
In May of 2021, we strategically expanded our reach and capabilities within the industry through the acquisition of Vancouver-based Wirefire Solutions Inc. This move broadened our expertise and reach to better serve our clients.
However, the most significant turn in our journey occurred in 2022 when iON became a proud and wholly owned subsidiary of Fulcrum IT Partners. This pivotal step unlocked new avenues for innovation and serving our clients. As part of the Fulcrum family, we now have the unique advantage of leveraging synergies with our sister companies to provide even more comprehensive and cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions.
Embracing the Future
As we reflect on two decades of growth and accomplishment, we extend heartfelt gratitude. To our clients who have entrusted us with their security, to our partners who have collaborated with us, and to our team members who have poured their passion and expertise into every project, we say THANK YOU. Our success would not have been possible without you.
Looking ahead, iON is brimming with excitement for the future. We are proud to have a team that includes some of the industry’s finest technicians, including a SANS certified instructor. We also have established a reputation for delivering high-quality cybersecurity services that have fostered strong community partnerships and fueled our growth for two decades. In the ever-changing cybersecurity landscape, filled with boundless opportunities, we feel poised for continued success in 2024 and beyond.
As we continue to lead the way as a trusted cybersecurity partner for organizations across Canada, we thank you for being part of our incredible journey.
