Derek Armstrong is the Manager of Innovation Ecosystems with Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), a federal government department focused on growing and diversifying the economy across the Canadian Prairies. Derek is based in Calgary and is passionate about providing innovators, entrepreneurs and small businesses the support they need to thrive in Alberta. He leads a team that funds non-profit enabling organizations such as post-secondary institutions, accelerators, incubators, industry associations, and municipalities. Derek and his team are working to enable growth in a variety of sectors, including clean tech, value-added agriculture, life sciences, digital tech, and advanced manufacturing. He is particularly committed to fostering an inclusive ecosystem for Indigenous Peoples, women, youth and other underrepresented groups.

With over 17 years of experience in the federal government, Derek has held various senior government roles in Calgary, Ottawa, Montreal, and Toronto, which included developing strategic climate change policy and leading major public-private infrastructure projects.