Point Alliance announces website giveaway contest winner

Point Alliance is pleased to announce the winner of their 11th Anniversary website and hosting contest. Back in July, Point Alliance opened a contest to celebrate their 11th anniversary for a free website and hosting package worth $20,000 open to all Canadian, non-profit organizations. Applicants were asked to submit an application explaining how their organization can benefit from a new site. After careful consideration, Point Alliance is excited to announce that Accommodation, Information and Support Inc. ("AIS") has been selected as the winner of the website package.

AIS is a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing and support services to persons experiencing mental health challenges and homelessness who live in Toronto, Ontario. Their unique model of support called "The House that AIS Built” offers services that include community support and development; nutritional programming and trauma and spiritual care, to name a few.

"We could not have selected a more deserving organization to be the winner of our contest," John Zarei, CEO of Point Alliance states, "The efforts and initiatives that AIS is spear-heading are truly inspiring and we are honoured to be able to contribute to their efforts and success”.

AIS plans to leverage the new website and hosting package to create a strategic and targeted online presence, develop a consistent message across all communications media, and engage current and future donors to support the building of more supportive housing and unique programming.

"This new website will do wonders in allowing us to leverage current and upcoming online opportunities," Marissa Bastidas, Executive Director at AIS shares. "It will enable us to have a stronger voice among web communities and connect with key stakeholders on line. What a positive impact this new website will have on our organization!"

Point Alliance and AIS is set to begin work on the new website this month with plans for completion in the first quarter of 2014 timeframe.

To learn more about Accommodation, Information and Support Inc., please visit: www.aistoronto.ca

Point Alliance named as Finalist for 2013 Digis Company of the Year award

Point Alliance is pleased to announce that they have been selected as a finalist for the 2013 Digis Company of the Year award. The Digis Awards, held by nextMEDIA, are Canada's premier annual showcase of the remarkable companies, products and people who are leading the digital media industry. Digis' 'Company of the Year' category, in which Point Alliance currently competes in, is reserved for innovative Canadian companies that leverage digital technologies to maximize profits.

"We are extremely thankful for the recognition," John Zarei, CEO of Point Alliance shares, "It is an honour to join our peers and other widely talented industry professionals in this competitive category. This nomination is going to serve as further inspiration for us to push our limits and pursue new innovations"

Digi winners will be announced at the upcoming Digi Awards show on December 3rd, 2013 in Toronto, Canada.

To learn more about nextMEDIA and the Digi Awards, please visit: www.nextmediaevents.com.

IBM Websphere Software Group and Point Alliance announce joint Caribbean event

We live in a fast-paced world and today's business market is no exception. Successful businesses are now smarter, faster and more flexible than ever, making the business platform both a challenge and an opportunity for businesses small and large.

The power of mobile technology has evolved dramatically in recent years and is now in nearly everything we touch. The ability to harness the power of mobile technology in processes and business efforts will truly allow organizations to not only grow, but also set themselves above their competitors.

Join industry leaders, IBM and Point Alliance as we explore how to transform your company's business processes and mobile needs into a strategic asset. Learn about how a strong mobile presence can optimize business performance, increase revenue growth, enhance productivity, lower total cost of ownership, and most importantly, positively affect your bottom line.

Learn first‐hand how IBM and Point Alliance can offer solutions for your success by providing leading edge business process management and delivery capabilities tailored to your needs.

Agenda
Topic #1: Cost Savings with Mobile Solutions
Topic #2: How to Increase Business Revenue with Business Process and Forms
Topic #3: Enhancing Your Customer Experience

Audience
C‐Level Executives: Optimize business processes and performance to increase revenue and enhance productivity.
CFOs/COOs: Access reports and dashboards to make more informed business decisions and lower costs
CIOs/CTOs: Enhance customer service to both internal and external customers
IT Leaders: Increase efficiency in development cycle

Date
Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Time: 7:30 am to 11:45 am (Full Breakfast at 7:30 am)
Location: Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre, Port of Spain, Trinidad
Register Now

Point Alliance delivers first ever webinar for the PPPC Ontario Chapter

John Zarei, the CEO of Point Alliance delivered a session on "The Top 10+1 Free Social Marketing hidden gems you need to know". This first ever PPPC ONTARIO CHAPTER sponsored live webinar focused on the top 10+1 free and inexpensive tips and tricks that will help you maximize your social marketing journey whether you are tech savvy or struggling to navigate your way.Social media is a topic everyone seems to be talking about. Many of these conversations focus on having a Facebook page, LinkedIn profile, Twitter feed, Pinterest board, Google+ profile and a website with a link to a search engine. Smart marketers know that social media goes well beyond this. They understand what is involved in creating a positive social media marketing journey to increasing your competitive advantage. The Ontario Chapters has secured one of Canada’s award-winning information technology strategy and solutions companies, Point Alliance, to host an exclusive PPPC Members only live webinar for our members in the province of Ontario.
About PPPC Ontario Chapter

The Ontario Chapter is a branch of the Promotional Product Professionals of Canada. The Chapter works to promote, foster and develop the economic and social interests of the members of the Association in the province of Ontario.

The Chapter provides its members Educational Seminars & Professional Development opportunities to enhance their knowledge and learn strategies on new trends within the Promotional Products Industry and beyond. The Chapter also provides numerous networking & social events for the membership each year to develop and enhance strong relationships with fellow members.

Canadian and Caribbean Portal User Group

Point Alliance is pleased to announce the formation of Canadian and Caribbean Portal User Group.

The Canadian and Caribbean Portal User Group’s mission is to build and foster the Portal community by providing support to customers, business partners, and IBM professionals through education, training and resources.

The Canadian and Caribbean Portal User Group is meant to serve as a resource station in an effort to connect individuals and facilitate collaboration between professionals.

Canadian and Caribbean Portal User Group Meeting
Tuesday, 29 October 2013 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (EDT)
The IBM Centre for Solution Innovation
Toronto, Canada (Webinar Details to follow)



Hosts:

• Krishnan Wignarajah
• Jonathan Hamilton
• John Zarei

Speakers:

• Jon Raslawski
• Tyler Tribe

Agenda:

• Introduction to event by Point Alliance Inc.
• Solution overview on Digital experiences
• Product Roadmap of Digital experiences
• Understanding the features of multichannel delivery of Digital experiences
• Understanding the features of Analytics of Digital experiences
• Customer Q&A Session

Point Alliance named to the CRN Fast Growth 150 List

Toronto, Ontario, September 13, 2013 – Point Alliance, today announced that it has been named to the 2013 CRN Fast Growth 150 list. The annual list features the fastest-growing solution providers in the technology industry based on two years' growth of net sales from fiscal year 2010 to fiscal year 2012.

"Despite the challenges of an evolving market, these Fast Growth companies demonstrate an unmatched ability to nimbly and effectively respond to market demands, fulfill customer needs and remain steadfast in their commitment to innovation," said Robert Faletra, CEO, CRN. “We are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the successful companies that keep the channel top of mind and serve as an example for the rest of the market.”

About CRN
CRN has been serving the IT channel community as the pre-eminent source for information and strategic guidance for more than three decades. CRN remains the market leader in Channel news, delivering intelligence, actionable advice and forward-thinking business strategy to the North American IT channel. Today’s CRN is a multi-media platform that includes the magazine, website and tablet app or mobile to reach our loyal and expanding channel audience in every way they want to engage. To learn more about CRN, visit http://www.crn.com

Point Alliance named to CRN's 2013 Next-Gen 250 List

Point Alliance is pleased to announce that we have been named to CRN's 2013 Next-Gen 250. The CRN Next-Gen 250 recognizes new solution providers bursting into the channel with a new approach to client support. The goal of this list is to showcase solution providers that have been founded in the past 15 years that are focused on emerging technologies such as cloud computing, mobility, virtualization and unified communications.

About CRN:
CRN has been serving the IT channel community as the pre-eminent source for information and strategic guidance for more than three decades. CRN remains the market leader in Channel news, delivering intelligence, actionable advice and forward-thinking business strategy to the North American IT channel.

Point Alliance in partnership with Agility announce Website Giveaway Contest

Toronto, ON). July marks the 11th anniversary for Point Alliance. In celebration, Point Alliance in partnership with Agility will be giving away a free website and hosting package worth $20,000. The contest is open to all Canadian registered not-for-profit organizations.

We understand that many of the not-for-profit organizations work on lean budgets and their website development is usually given the lowest priority. We know how valuable a functional website can be for attracting sponsors, building volunteers, and sharing information within the community. Our Website Giveaway gives one (1) not-for-profit organization the opportunity to give their website top priority. We want to show how important it is to have a web presence and how cost effective it can be with the right web tools for any organization.

Those who wish to enter can do so by visiting www.pointalliance.com/contest and completing the application form on-line. Each entry will be reviewed by the adjudicating committee and one (1) prize will be awarded to the Entrant whose submission is considered to be the most compelling and in need of a new website. The giveaway will be running from July 17, 2013 until September 30, 2013.

About Agility Inc.

Agility (www.agilitycms.com) is a cloud-based content management system. It allows you to manage content across all digital channels including your website, mobile site, mobile apps, and social media pages from a single browser-based interface. Agility integrates with best-of-breed solutions for video management, ad serving, search, analytics, email marketing and more. Agility can be implemented with an internal development team, or by working with their implementation partners. Agility is based in Toronto Canada and is running sites for Uncle Ben’s, Campbell's, Subaru and Whiskas.

About Point Alliance Inc.

Point Alliance is an award-winning provider of information technology strategies and solutions. Our consulting practice is a recognized leader in delivering proven business solutions to Global 300 companies across many industries. Backed by over 10 years of proven results from over 200 organizations, we offer comprehensive products and solutions that drive your business growth and success.

Point Alliance celebrates 11th Anniversary with a website giveaway contest!

(Toronto, ON). Point Alliance is pleased to announce that today marks their 11th year anniversary in business. In the past 11 years, Point Alliance has grown their business from a small 2-man start-up company to a global IT consulting and solutions leader, providing services to over 200 organizations around the world.

To celebrate their 11th year milestone, Point Alliance in partnership with Agility will be hosting a contest for a free website and hosting package worth $20,000. This contest will be open to all Canadian registered not-for-profit organizations.

We understand that many of the not-for-profit organizations work on lean budgets and their website development is usually given the lowest priority. We know how valuable a functional website can be for attracting sponsors, building volunteers, and sharing information within the community. Our Website Giveaway gives one not-for-profit organization the opportunity to give their website top priority. We want to show how important it is to have a web presence and how cost effective it can be with the right web tools for any organization.

Those who wish to enter can do so by visiting www.pointalliance.com/contest and completing the application form on-line. Each entry will be reviewed by the adjudicating committee and one (1) prize will be awarded to the Entrant whose submission is considered to be the most compelling and in need of a new website. The giveaway will be running from July 17, 2013 until September 30, 2013.

During the past 11 years, Point Alliance’s Chief Executive Officer, John Zarei has seen Point Alliance expand their global reach from their local roots in Toronto, Ontario throughout North America and to the Caribbean. Recognized as Canada’s top most profitable companies by Profit 500 as well as being named 2013 Next 50 Canadian ICT companies by Branham 300, Point Alliance is still finding room to grow.

"It has been an incredible journey for us the past 11 years and we have our fantastic customers and dedicated team to thank for that.” Zarei states. “We are excited about our future at Point Alliance and what the rest of this decade will bring. We have so many new ideas and initiatives planned for the near future and we are excited to bring it to life!"

To learn more about the contest, please visit: www.pointalliance.com/contest

Point Alliance unveils new look with the launch of their website

(Toronto, ON). Point Alliance is inviting visitors to explore their new look with the launch of their completely redesigned website. The revitalised website is part of ongoing efforts to enhance usability and create the ultimate user-friendly experience. With an interactive menu and intuitive design, users can expect to be wowed by this modern and engaging site.

The website subtly offers new features such as live Twitter feeds and a host of new videos, including an informative demo on recently launched tool, mobilextension. What remains unchanged from the old site is the access to the wide availability of service and product offerings, as well as a collection of informative and unique case studies and customer testimonials. Customers can easily view detailed product and service information, or link out to social media sites to share with others. A request for a callback from a Point Alliance representative is also available online to assist with additional inquiries.

Point Alliance CEO, John Zarei is pleased with the site's new face lift. "We are very excited about our revitalised website and its fresh new look," John shares. "After 10 years in the business, our company has grown and we needed our website to grow with us. This redesigned site will allow us to better communicate with our clients and more effectively showcase our product and service offerings".

Point Alliance's launch of their new website coincides with the celebration of their 11th year anniversary in July.

Point Alliance recognized on the PROFIT 500

Point Alliance is pleased to announce that it has been recognized on the 25th annual PROFIT 500 ranking of Canada’s Fastest-Growing Companies.

"To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Fastest-Growing Companies in Canada, the PROFIT 500 has expanded to recognize the entrepreneurial achievements of more than 500 Canadian companies," says Ian Portsmouth, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of PROFIT Magazine. "PROFIT is proud to now showcase Canada’s forward-thinking small business entrepreneurs and honour their talents and innovations."

"We are extremely fortunate to have a truly gifted team at Point Alliance. In this ever changing, dynamic environment, our staff are constantly pushing the envelope with technology, designing innovative business solutions for our clients. And our clients are the ones who put their trust in us to deliver. We greatly value our client relationships, and strive to meet or exceed their expectations. Their success has been our success and we look forward to working together for many years to come." says Jonathan Hamilton, President of Point Alliance Inc.

The PROFIT 500 rankings are available online by visiting: http://profit500.com.

About PROFIT Magazine and PROFITguide.com

PROFIT: Your Guide to Business Success is Canada’s preeminent publication dedicated to the management issues and opportunities facing small and mid-sized businesses. For 31 years, Canadian entrepreneurs and senior managers across a vast array of economic sectors have remained loyal to PROFIT because it’s a timely and reliable source of actionable information that helps them achieve business success and get the recognition they deserve for generating positive economic and social change. Visit PROFIT online at PROFITguide.com.

Point Alliance Named to 2013 Branham300 The Next 50 Canadian ICT Companies

About the Branham300
For 20 years now, the Branham300 has highlighted the top Canadian and Multinational ICT companies operating in Canada, as ranked by revenues. It illustrates the depth and breadth of innovative technologies developed in Canada and is widely considered to be a leading source of intelligence on Canada's ICT industry. The Branham300 list consists of the following major categories:

• Top 250 Canadian ICT Companies
• The Next 50 Canadian ICT Companies
• Top 25 ICT Multinational Companies operating in Canada
• Top 25 Up and Comer ICT Companies (category ranked on innovation/not revenue)

About Branham Group Inc.
Branham Group Inc. is a leading industry analyst and strategic marketing company servicing the global Information and Communication Technology (ICT) marketplace. Branham Group assists ICT Technology companies and related institutions in achieving market success through its custom consulting services (Planning, Marketing and Partnering), and through its multi-client research subscription programs (Digital Health, Green IT and Cloud). Branham also produces an annual listing of the top ICT companies in Canada (www.branham300.com) and monitors over 450 Digital Health vendors (www.branhamgroup.com/digitalhealth).

Point Alliance signs up as Bronze Corporate sponsor for Ultimate Food Challenge

Ultimate Food Challenge

Daily Bread’s 2nd annual Ultimate Food Challenge will take place on Wednesday, May 8, 2013.

Three celebrity chefs will unleash their culinary talents in the gastronomic ring. Join us for a titanic battle of styles, as our heavy-hitters prepare to knock out the finest foodie fight in Daily Bread history. Watch in awe as regular food bank staples are whipped into a frenzy of epicurean delights. Savour the signature offerings from our culinary champs and Daily Bread’s own Catering Kitchen.

Proceeds from the 2013 Ultimate Food Challenge will support Daily Bread’s Kitchen, which provided 170,000 nutritious meals last year to shelters, schools and other meal programs serving low-income children and adults at more than 100 public and social service agencies in neighbourhoods across Toronto.

About Daily Bread Food Bank

Daily Bread Food Bank is fighting to end hunger in our communities.

As the hub of the food bank community in Toronto, Daily Bread supports approximately 170 member agencies in running different kinds of food relief programs. Our agencies run neighbourhood food banks where people come to access food hampers, as well as meal programs where people can access prepared meals such as soups or casseroles.

Daily Bread Food Bank is the largest provider of emergency food relief in the GTA. Daily Bread member agencies see a monthly average of 66,000 client visits Our agencies serve the majority of the clients accessing food bank hampers in the city and many of the clients accessing prepared meals. Our boundaries encompass the former cities of East York, Toronto, Scarborough, Etobicoke and York.

Point Alliance in action at the Daily Bread Food Bank

Toronto, ON (March 20, 2013)- Point Alliance staff volunteered a half day at the Daily Bread Food Bank in Toronto, sorting, checking, boxing and loading food donations that would be distributed throughout the city.

2012 Key Hunger Statistics

• 799,500 - Visits to Daily Bread member agencies from April 2011 to March 2012
• 32% Of food bank visits are children
• 25% Of children go hungry at least once a week in the GTA
• 45% Of adults go hungry at least once a week
• 71% Of income is spent on housing
• $691 Is the median monthly income for a food bank client

About the Daily Bread Food Bank

Daily Bread Food Bank is fighting to end hunger in our communities.

As the hub of the food bank community in Toronto, Daily Bread supports approximately 170 member agencies in running different kinds of food relief programs. Our agencies run neighbourhood food banks where people come to access food hampers, as well as meal programs where people can access prepared meals such as soups or casseroles.