Protexxa
Protexxa is a cybersecurity platform and services company dedicated to protecting organizations from cyber threats by focusing on the human dimension of security. Their flagship product, the “Defender”-platform, uses artificial intelligence to rapidly identify, assess, predict and resolve cyber risks for both employees and enterprises. With significant growth and funding (including a major Series A), Protexxa is scaling globally and redefining how businesses manage cyber-hygiene and resilience.
Claudette McGowan
Founder & CEO
As Founder and CEO of Protexxa, Claudette has built one of Canada's leading cyber-defense platforms and steered a landmark $10 million Series A funding round, a record for a Black woman founder in the country. With over two decades of experience, including senior cybersecurity roles at TD and BMO, Claudette combines deep technical expertise with bold entrepreneurial drive. Beyond tech, she plays a leading role in fostering inclusion and innovation: chairing the Coalition of Innovation Leaders Against Racism (CILAR), co‑founding the Phoenix Fire & The Firehood women-focused angel fund, and founding the Black Arts & Innovation Expo. Her impact has been formally recognized with her appointment as a Member of the Order of Canada in 2025.
