At GeoIgnite 2025, every keynote brought insight, and every panel sparked action — but one small gesture carried a story all its own.

As a token of appreciation, GoGeomatics Canada presented framed Canadian one-dollar bills to all plenary speakers and members of the GeoIgnite Advisory Committee. More than a gift, it was a symbol — of history, geography, identity, and the enduring resilience that has defined Canada’s growth from past to present.

The reverse of the bill, once a familiar sight in Canadian pockets, depicts the Parliament Buildings overlooking the Ottawa River. In the foreground is an image that speaks directly to the region’s history: the great log drive, a powerful symbol of Canadian determination, ingenuity, and the geographic forces that shaped the nation’s early economy.

A Tribute Rooted in Place

For GoGeomatics founder Jonathan Murphy, the imagery holds personal resonance. Growing up in Wakefield, Quebec, he watched logs float down the Gatineau River, connecting him to generations of workers who helped build this country—literally and economically.

“In tribute to that history—and to the connection between geography, economy, and identity—we’re presenting a framed Canadian one-dollar bill to our plenary speakers,” he shared during his opening keynote. “We hope it serves as a small but meaningful tribute to your contributions — and a symbol of where we’ve come from, and where we’re going.”

A Gesture that Reflects a Larger Message

The framed bill is not just about nostalgia. It ties directly to the keynote’s call for Canada to reclaim leadership by investing in its own capabilities — from data infrastructure to domestic innovation. It serves as a reminder that while technology advances, the spirit of resilience and nation-building remains just as relevant today.

As Murphy noted, “We created the world’s first digital atlas. We developed RADARSAT. We pioneered space robotics. This is our track record. This is who we are.”

The gifts were a quiet reflection of that same spirit — a thank-you grounded in history, meant to inspire the future.

Honouring Our 2025 Recipients

We extend our sincere thanks to the following individuals who received the commemorative Canadian one-dollar bill as a symbol of appreciation for their contributions to GeoIgnite 2025:

• Alexander Verbeek
• Denis Hains
• Nadine Alameh
• Peter Rabley
• Keith Masback
• Eric Loubier
• Manon Larocque
• Brian Gallant
• Alain Gauthier
• Gregory Burt
• Borys Vorobyov
• Prashant Shukle
• Claudia Cozzitorto
• Bilyana Anicic
• David Gachuche
• John Roos
• Ted MacKinnon
• Peggy March
• Anusuya Datta

Thank you for lending your voices, leadership, and guidance to this year’s event. Your contributions continue to shape the future of Canada’s geospatial community.