Introducing Contact North | Contact Nord’s Four FREE, Easy-to-Use AI-Powered Apps for Education and Training |
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Top10 EdTech Report Issue No. 357
January 16, 2026
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BETT UK & the Inaugural Global Ministerial Symposium Preview Podcast with Ryan Donaghy, Deputy Minister, NBEd |
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Dear MindShare Community Innovator,
Welcome to this special edition of the MindShare Learning Report, where we reflect on a powerful week at FETC 2026 and look ahead to the next global gathering shaping the future of learning at BETT UK.
Fresh off an energizing FETC conference, this issue captures the ideas, innovations, and leadership conversations that defined the event, from AI as a leadership imperative, to student engagement, cybersecurity, and human-centered technology integration. The stories and highlights throughout this edition reinforce a clear message: the future of education is being built through collaboration, purpose, and bold leadership.
This Week on MindShareTV - FETC Highlights
We’re proud to feature exclusive MindShareTV podcast conversations recorded at FETC, including standout sessions with keynote speakers and thought leaders. Highlights include, fellow Pepperdine University alumni, Dr. Kip Glazer’s compelling message on why AI is a leadership issue, not just a tech tool, along with insights from innovators driving real impact in classrooms and systems across North America.
FETC Conference Spotlight
From the most engaging keynotes and booths, to award-winning platforms and unforgettable networking moments, FETC 2026 delivered inspiration at every turn. Congratulations to the many organizations and educators recognized in this issue, including Canva, named the Most Popular Education App Globally, and Canadian based, Lü, recognized as Most Interactive Platform in education and SchoolAI, Most Engaging Exibit.
One of the most memorable highlights was receiving the EdTech Digest Award for Best North American eMagazine at our 34th CanAM Celebration of Excellence Meet-up. It was a testament to the power and importance of 'Human Connection' with over 100 guest and VIPs from across North America connecting and 'mindsharing' forging new friendships & partnerships in an AI world.
Looking Ahead: BETT UK 2026
As we build on the momentum from FETC, our attention now turns to BETT UK, where we join global leaders, policymakers, and EdTech innovators will convene to explore the next wave of transformation in education. As an official media partner, MindShare Learning looks forward to continuing the conversation on the international stage and sharing insights from London in the weeks ahead. We'll be exploring an expanded EdTechCanada trade mission for BETT2027 meeting with the local Canadian Trade Commissioner and BETT Officials. We're further exploring a partnership with EdTechEurope to join us at the 17th Canadian EdTech AI Summit fall of 2027!
Quote of the Week
This week’s quote celebrates global leadership and impact, recognizing MindShare Learning's EdTech Digest Award as a trusted resource advancing meaningful dialogue and insight for educators and innovators worldwide, reinforcing our shared mission to
connect, share, and inspire.
C21 Canada Task Force Spotight: AI, Policy & Practice
From AI assessment frameworks and classroom innovation, to data privacy, cybersecurity, and responsible adoption, this edition reflects a sector moving quickly, but thoughtfully, toward human-centered, future-ready education systems.
C21 Canada Dell Technologies AI Use Case Project: Rethinking Classroom Instruction and Assessment using an AI Assessment Scale Toronto District School Board.
Watch for the C21 Canada AI Student Microcredential for Grades 7-12 coming Soon!
Top K-12 & Post-Secondary News
Our curated news coverage spans AI literacy, public policy investments, student-led innovation, international education outlooks, and groundbreaking research, capturing the momentum shaping education across Canada and globally.
Careers, Events & Professional Learning
Explore the latest EdTech career opportunities and upcoming global events, from BETT UK and ERDI U.S., to OLA, SXSW EDU, ASU+GSV, and the C21 CEO Academy Summit, designed to help you grow your leadership journey and global perspective.
Late Breaking News: Vivi Launches 2026 Global Teacher Insights Survey at Future of Education Technology Conference, click here to participate.
Thank you for being part of the MindShare community and for your continued leadership in building a more connected, innovative, and inclusive learning future. Together, we are amplifying Canadian voices while learning from the world’s best.
This year, as we celebrate our 25th Anniversary, we're looking forward to expanded voices welcoming guest blogs from across Canada and beyond. We're also growing our Mindshare Leader Associates team to support our work in leading AI digital transformation across industry & education through our strategic partnerships. Please DM to express your interest!
Many thanks to our team, board of advisors, clients and partners who have made our 25 year journey magical!
Until next time, stay healthy, stay safe, and keep the digital learning curve steep!
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P. S. We're thrilled to share we've innovated our eMag which is now available in multiple formats to better meet your needs via, PDF and as a 12 minute Podcast overview. See links above!
Robert Martellacci, M.A. EdTech
Founder & President, MindShare Learning Media & Consulting
Chief Digital Publisher, The MindShare Learning Report™
Chair, 16th Canadian EdTech Leadership Summit
Founder, MindShare Workspace--Your Place to Work & Learn
CEO & Co-founder, C21 Canada--Canadians for 21st Century Learning & Innovation
Follow us on Twitter @MindShareLearn @c21can @mindsharework
https://mindsharelearning.ca/ |
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FETC26 Conference Media Partner Highlights |
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MindshareTV Podcast with Speaker
Dr. Kip Glazer, Principal, Mountainview High School on Why AI is a Leadership Issue,
Not Just a Tech Tool? |
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Game Changers at FETC 2026: Where Leadership, Innovation, and Learning Converge
FETC 2026 once again proved why it remains a flagship gathering for educators, district leaders, and edtech innovators committed to shaping the future of learning. More than a conference, FETC was a powerful convergence of ideas, relationships, and inspiration, setting the tone for the year ahead.
A standout moment was Alana Winnick’s “Game Changers” keynote, which masterfully infused
student voice with
superintendent leadership. Her message challenged leaders to move beyond incremental change and instead empower learners as co-creators of their educational journeys. The energy in the room was undeniable, and it came as no surprise when Alana was honored with the MindShare Award for Most Inspiring Keynote, a recognition that perfectly captured her impact.
An especially meaningful “icing on the cake” moment came when Victor Rivero, Publisher of EdTech Digest, presented me with the EdTech Digest Award for Top EdTech eMag. This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of educators, contributors, and partners who believe in elevating voices, sharing best practices, and telling authentic stories that matter across the education landscape.
The MindShare Awards further spotlighted excellence across the Expo Hall and beyond. Canva Education was named
Top App in Education Globally for its continued commitment to creativity and accessibility. SchoolAI earned recognition for
Most Engaging Exhibit, while Lu stood out as
Most Interactive Exhibit, both exemplifying how thoughtful design and engagement can elevate learning experiences. And in true FETC fashion, community and connection were celebrated with Thai Thani recognized as
Best Restaurant to Dine While at FETC a favorite gathering spot for meaningful conversations.
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FETC 2026 reinforced a simple but powerful truth: when innovation is guided by purpose, leadership is learner-centered, and collaboration is intentional, the future of education is not only bright, it’s already unfolding
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Congratulations Alana Winnick, Selected by MindShare Best Keynote Award for Engaging Students & Educational Leadership |
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Congratulations Schoolai Selected by MindShare
FETC's Most Engaging Exhibit |
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Congratulations to Canva, Most Popular Education App Globally |
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Congratulations Lü:
Selected by MindShare as the Best Interactive Platform in Education |
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Selected by MindShare, Best FETC Restaurant: Thai Thani |
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bett 2026 Conference Corner |
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"
This year's winner has established themselves as global leaders in EdTech shaping the future of education for millions of people. True to their 'Connect, Share, and Inspire' mission, they’ve gone above and beyond in creating timely and relevant content week after week to enrich the lives of learners everywhere.
It is now my pleasure, on behalf of the esteemed judging panel of the EdTech Awards by EdTech Digest, to present to Robert Martellacci, founder MindShare Learning & Can/Am Top 10 Newsletter this recognition for Best Resource for Learning, representing the best of Canada and beyond. Very well-earned, well-deserved, and well done!"
-- Victor Rivero, Editor-in-Chief,
EdTech Digest |
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Rethinking Classroom Instruction and Assessment using an AI Assessment Scale
Toronto District School Board, Ontario
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C21 Canada AI Task Force Webinar [Recorded]: Shaping the Future of AI in Canadian Education, Key Findings & Insights Revealed
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From Chalk Dust to Digital Trust: A Guide in Data Privacy and Security for K-12 Leaders |
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"
From Chalk Dust to Digital Trust is a must-read guide for K–12 leaders determined to protect their schools in the digital age. Antoinette King and Michelle Krieger bring real-world expertise and practical solutions to one of today’s most pressing challenges: safeguarding student data and maintaining cybersecurity in education.
Through engaging stories and actionable strategies, the authors frame school security around three essential pillars—prevention, detection, and response—while never losing sight of the human side of technology. With clear guidance on building governance teams, fostering a culture of digital awareness, and leading with trust, this book empowers educators and administrators to move beyond compliance and into confident, future-ready leadership.
Far more than a technical manual, From Chalk Dust to Digital Trust is a call to action: to lead with resilience, protect what matters most, and inspire trust in every corner of the school community.
"
-by Antoinette King &
Michelle Krieger
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The Results Are In:
The Top 10 EdTech Trends for 2026
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1. Students are ready for AI. Here's how schools can help them use it well
https://www.canva.com/ | January 6, 2026 |
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Schools are increasingly shifting from restricting AI to teaching students how to use it responsibly, creatively, and confidently as AI literacy becomes a core skill. One U.S. school district demonstrated this by giving K-12 students structured, hands-on exposure to AI through a districtwide “Hour of AI,” focusing on creativity, critical thinking, and guided exploration. By using approved tools within clear safety and privacy guardrails, students learned how effective AI use depends on clear prompts, human direction, and thoughtful intent. The approach boosted student engagement and confidence, offering a practical model for how schools can integrate AI in ways that enhance learning rather than replace human creativity. |
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Alberta plans to introduce mandatory reading and math assessments for students from kindergarten to Grade 3 to identify learning gaps early, but many educators and researchers question whether the approach will actually help struggling learners. While early literacy skills like phonics and sound awareness are important, most children already acquire them by Grade 2, and research shows later reading success depends heavily on vocabulary development and writing skills. Critics warn the proposed tests are too narrow, overlook the well-documented “Grade 4 slump,” and may fail to identify students who will struggle with comprehension later on. Without broader assessments and added classroom resources, the initiative risks increasing administrative workload without delivering meaningful improvements in literacy outcomes. |
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Common Sense Media and OpenAI have partnered to support the Parents & Kids Safe AI Act, a comprehensive California initiative designed to protect children from the risks of AI chatbots and conversational systems. The act consolidates two competing measures and mandates age verification, parental controls, prohibition of child-targeted advertising, safeguards against self-harm and manipulation, and independent audits to ensure AI safety for minors. It responds to the growing use of AI companion chatbots by teens, which has been linked to mental health risks and tragic outcomes, emphasizing accountability for AI companies through legal enforcement and financial penalties. Overall, the measure aims to establish strong guardrails for children’s AI use, prevent exploitation, and empower parents to monitor and control their children’s interactions with AI. |
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Education leaders and FETC have announced the 2026 Top EdTech Products of the Year, recognizing innovative tools that address the evolving technology needs of schools and districts. More than 115 submissions were reviewed by editors alongside superintendents and industry experts, with winners spanning both large/midsize companies and startups. Awards were given across 10 categories, including assessment, curriculum, student learning, safety, inclusive technology, and game-based learning. The selected products highlight key trends shaping education technology in 2026, from AI-powered learning platforms to tools that improve administration, engagement, and accessibility. |
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A recent essay challenges the idea of the “unassisted writer,” arguing that all learning and writing have historically relied on guidance and feedback from teachers, peers, or mentors, and that AI should be seen as another form of assistance rather than a threat. The author highlights that concerns about students “offloading” thinking to AI ignore the long-standing inequities in access to support, where affluent students often receive more individualized feedback than others. Effective AI use, the essay suggests, involves teaching students to engage critically with the tool, prompting, revising, and reflecting, so that thinking remains their own and learning is deepened. Ultimately, AI is a chance to democratize access to quality feedback, but without intentional guidance, it risks reinforcing existing educational inequities. |
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6. Ontario Investing $242 Million to Prepare College and University Students for In-Demand Jobs
https://news.ontario.ca/en | January 13, 2026
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The Ontario government announced a $242 million investment to upgrade facilities and equipment at publicly funded colleges and universities, aimed at preparing students for in-demand, good-paying jobs across key sectors such as healthcare, construction, nursing, and STEM. The funding will modernize classrooms, labs, and learning technologies, including advanced simulation and AI-enabled tools, helping strengthen Ontario’s workforce pipeline amid economic uncertainty. This builds on broader provincial investments exceeding $2 billion in capital grants to ensure students gain industry-aligned, future-ready skills. |
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7. Bell and Queen’s University joining forces to build sovereign AI supercomputing infrastructure in Canada
https://www.queensu.ca/ | December 15, 2025 |
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Bell Canada and Queen’s University announced a strategic partnership to build and operate a sovereign, next-generation AI supercomputing facility in Canada, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding. The initiative will combine Bell’s telecommunications and infrastructure expertise with Queen’s leadership in supercomputing research and operations to expand Canada’s AI capacity, support domestic adoption of AI tools, and strengthen digital sovereignty by safeguarding sensitive data and intellectual property within Canadian ownership and governance. The facility will feature high-efficiency design, including heat recapture, and serve as a national testbed to accelerate AI research, commercialization, and real-world deployment for academia, industry, and government. |
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8. ‘It changes everything’: How AI is impacting post-secondary education
https://www.ctvnews.ca/ | January 13, 2026 |
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Artificial intelligence is increasingly being embraced in post-secondary education as a tool that can enhance learning, improve writing quality, and provide students with on-demand academic support. Universities are moving past early fears about academic integrity and are instead developing clearer policies that allow AI for tasks like concept clarification, editing assistance, and tutoring, while limiting full content generation. Educators report that AI can also improve teaching and administration, from refining curricula to identifying at-risk students and reducing routine workloads. While concerns remain around ethics, overreliance, and equity, many experts agree AI does not replace the core social and humanistic role of universities, but rather reshapes how teaching, learning, and research are carried out. |
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Canada’s international education sector is entering 2026 with cautious optimism but ongoing challenges, as visa caps, processing delays, and policy constraints continue to limit student arrivals and strain post-secondary institutions. Experts predict modest gains for graduate, doctoral, and research-focused programs, which are now prioritized under federal initiatives, while undergraduate and college-level enrolment remains restricted, deepening disparities across institutions. The sector faces structural challenges, including program closures, staffing cuts, and economic impacts on communities reliant on student spending, highlighting the need for stable, transparent, and predictable immigration and education policies. Despite these hurdles, stakeholders remain hopeful that a gradual rebalancing toward quality, workforce-aligned programs, improved visa processing, and recognition of the value of international students could stabilize the system and support both institutions and local economies. |
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A University of Waterloo student is tackling rising grocery costs with an AI-powered meal-planning app. Henrietta van Niekerk, a fourth-year Global Business and Digital Arts student, launched Skrimp.AI, an app that helps users plan meals around weekly grocery flyer deals to reduce food expenses. Developed through Waterloo’s Enterprise Co-op (E Co-op) program and supported by the university’s entrepreneurship ecosystem, Skrimp.AI is already being used across the Waterloo region, saving families $50-$100 per week, or up to $5,000 annually. Van Niekerk plans to expand the free app to the Greater Toronto Area and eventually nationwide, highlighting Waterloo’s role in driving practical, AI-enabled innovation to address cost-of-living challenges. |
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Professional Learning Events |
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bett UK ExCel London
January 21 - 23 2026
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ERDI Winter R&D Institute | Tucson, AZ
January 25-30, 2026
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SXSW EDU
March 9 - 12 2026
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ASU + GSV Summit: Learning at the Speed of Light
April 12 - 15 2026
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CoSN2025, Chicago
April 13 - 15 2026
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Mental Health Summit
April 17 - 18 2026
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ULead: The Summit of Educational Leadership
April 19 - 21 2026
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Teacher/Parent Resources Corner
Essential Edtech Tools For Back To School
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Vivi Launches 2026 Global Teacher Insights Survey at Future of Education Technology Conference
Vivi today announced the launch of its 2026 Global Teacher Insights Survey at the Future of Education Technology Conference, inviting educators worldwide to share their perspectives on what drives teacher success and student engagement.
Building on the findings from the 2025 Global Teacher Insights Report, which revealed that 85% of teachers attribute their success to active student engagement and strong student connections, the new survey aims to deepen understanding of how technology and human connection intersect in today's classrooms.
"Last year's report confirmed what many educators already knew---that human connection remains at the heart of effective teaching," said Juliana Finegan, Vice President of Education for Vivi. "This year, we're expanding our research to better understand how schools can continue supporting teachers in building those vital relationships while navigating an evolving educational landscape."
The 2025 report, which surveyed nearly 2,000 teachers across the U.S., U.K., Australia, and New Zealand, found that 72% of teachers proactively spend time on activities that foster deeper connections with students. Additionally, 64% reported that strong relationships extend beyond the classroom, helping teachers feel more connected to peers and the broader school community.
Teachers interested in contributing to the 2026 study can access the survey at: https://learnaccel.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1FYNeyUbDlHPm2a
The 2026 Global Teacher Insights Report will be released later this year and will provide education leaders with actionable insights to guide decisions on supporting teachers and strengthening instruction.
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Leading Innovation in Education
Advertise your not-for-profit organization or EdTech company, sponsor a Webinar or Canadian EdTech Summit!, share your press releases, career opportunities, and more! To inquire about our EdTech strategy consulting services,
Contact us at robert@mindsharelearning.com
MindShare Learning Digital Marketing Strategy Playbook 2026.
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About MindShare Learning
MindShare Learning is Canada’s Leading EdTech Media, Marketing & Strategy Consulting Company. We offer expert insight to the learning technology sector to help leaders and learners thrive in the 21st Century global knowledge-based digital economy.
The MindShare Report Mission
Our goal is to keep you current and at the forefront of innovation in Canadian education through our weekly eMag. Be sure to connect with us:
- Contribute a story, or suggest a MindShareTV podcast
- Feedback, or suggestions on how to improve this report
- Advertise, sponsor, or strategic partnerships
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The MindShare Learning Report team consists of the following individuals:
Robert Martellacci, M.A. Ed Tech., Founder & Chief Digital Publisher
Dr. Ron Owston, PhD., Research Associate, University Professor Emeritus, Former Dean of Faculty, York University
Chris Kim, PhD., Research Associate, Software Engineer, software studio, Fresco Industries
Timothy Gard, B.Ed., OCT, M.A, Chief Learning Strategist
Hanan Mousa, M.B.A, B.C. S. Digital Media Specialist
MindShare Advisory Board
The MindShare Report is grateful for the guidance and support provided by our esteemed advisory board. Members include:
Laurent Burman, M.B.A., Chief Commercial Officer, Sound Commerce
Kevin Custer, Founding Principal, Arc Capital Development
Chip Fesko, Principal, Chip Fesko & Associates
Ian Fogarty, Educator, Riverview High School | MindShare National Video Challenge Award Winner
Dr. GuyTetrault, Award Winning Sun West School Division, Director & CEO (Retired)
Michael Furdyk, Co-Founder, TakingItGlobal
Dr. Eric Hamilton, Associate Dean of Education, Pepperdine University, Graduate School of Education and Psychology
Maxim Jean-Louis, CEO, Contact North/Contact Nord,
Gary Kern, Principal, St. George's School
Dr. Susanne Lajoie, Professor, Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University
David Marsi, Senior Manager Training Initiatives, ScotiaMcLeod
Mirella Rossi, Superintendent of Education, Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board
Sandra Chow, Award Winning Teacher, Toronto District School Board (On Leave serving as a Director of Technology & Instruction at a School in China
Ron Sedran, MD, Equity Capital Markets, Canaccord Adams
About The MindShare Learning Report™
Canada's Learning & Technology eMagazine.
Our mission is to provide insight and inspiration to K12 and Post-Secondary education and industry leaders by sharing the latest trends and innovative best practices and success stories in the Canadian education market space and beyond.
Editorial content is welcomed for our weekly and monthly EdTech Reports.
Please forward your news releases as web links to
info@mindsharelearning.com
Advertising opportunities are available, please contact,
robert@mindsharelearning.com
Consulting opportunities are available, please contact:
robert@mindsharelearning.com
Annual subscriptions to the MindShare Learning Report can be purchased at $99 CDN
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Our Valued Clients and Partners |
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