Victoria-based Language Foundry is entering a new phase of growth after rebranding from Culture Foundry Studios and earning a spot in Web Summit Lisbon’s coveted StartUp Showcase—one of only four Canadian companies selected for the program.
The company used the global stage in Lisbon to debut its new name and website, underscoring a sharpened mission: supporting Indigenous and endangered language revitalization through community-led digital learning tools.
Language Foundry builds culturally grounded e-learning platforms designed to help communities protect and pass down their languages at a time when one language disappears every two weeks and more than 6,000 are at risk worldwide.
Working by invitation with Indigenous Nations across Canada and the United States, the company co-creates gamified, intuitive courses that reflect each language’s identity—from artwork and story elements to custom syllabic keyboards. Crucially, communities retain ownership of all content and data, ensuring cultural sovereignty and long-term stewardship.
“Our new name reflects our deepened commitment to language revitalization and the purpose that guides us every day,” said Chad Quinn, Founder and CEO of Language Foundry.
“Language is identity, knowledge, and connection. By providing communities with tools they control and content they own, we’re helping create digital spaces where language and culture can thrive. Being selected for StartUp Showcase at Web Summit validates not only our technology but the community-led approach that drives it.”
Web Summit Lisbon—one of the world’s most influential technology gatherings—offered Language Foundry a global platform to spotlight the importance of cultural innovation in tech and connect with partners advancing language preservation.
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