BlackSquare Raises Seven Figures as Investors Bet That Bill C-311 will Fuel Demand for Wine Ecommerce

The passage this week of Bill C-311 removing interprovincial trade barriers for the Canadian wine industry, has got more than grape juice flowing. Apparently it is loosening up seed capital as well.

Calgary’s BlackSquare announced today that they have completed a significant seed financing round and added an industry veteran to its senior management team.

The seven-figure financing from a small group of private investors will support the company’s market expansion.

Joining Blacksquare will be veteran technology marketer, Judy Bishop, as Chief Marketing Officer.  Bishop has co-founded three successful technology startups, provided marketing consultancy to many fast-growth companies, won two business leadership awards and was previously in a senior management position at KPMG LLP. Look for Bishop to drive the company’s market momentum and assist in international market development.

Bishop said “BlackSquare sits at the intersection of four areas where I have considerable experience: technology marketing, international business, rapid growth and the wine industry.” She added, “There’s been major change in how the wine industry touches customers. BlackSquare has a solid shot at leading market innovation for direct to consumer wine ecommerce globally.”