Meet the New NAT: Why We’re Rebranding
If you haven’t heard the news, NAT has a shiny new name.
After years of promoting innovation and connecting youth to neurotechnology, we are proud to announce that NAT is officially rebranding. Our new title—the Network for Applied Technology (formerly NeurAlbertaTech)—reflects our expanded mission to accelerate interdisciplinary innovation in emerging tech.
When we originally launched as NeurAlbertaTech, our focus was on building Alberta’s first hub for student-driven neurotechnology. But as our community grew, so did our reach, expertise, and the problems we sought to solve. We began to embrace fields adjacent to neurotech—including AI, digital health, accessibility technologies, and science communication.
“We’ve reached a critical mass of funding, talent, and emerging leadership, and we need space to grow into what’s next.”
But here’s what really matters: we'll still be known as NAT, and the same team of dedicated experts you know and trust will continue to host hackathons. Our mission to empower the next generation of tech innovators through hands-on learning, collaboration, and open access remains unchanged.
What NAT Stands For
Network: We are a distributed, people-first platform, and a living constellation of innovators, educators, and builders across regions and disciplines.
Applied: We focus on technology that meets real-world needs—tech with purpose, grounded in impact, equity, and relevance.
Technology: While neurotech remains a core pillar, we also embrace AI, biosystems, interactive media, and other emerging domains that shape the human experience.
“Network for Applied Technology” is our way of welcoming people who may not see themselves as specialized tech professionals. We invite you to grow with us, and contribute to Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. Whether you’ve been part of our journey since day one, or you’re just discovering us now, welcome to the Network for Applied Technology!
Stay connected with NAT to explore our latest developments, join hands-on workshops and competitions, and connect at networking events. Be part of our growing community and the future of emerging tech.