The Founder Bottleneck: Why HR, IT and Finances Won't Wait | Edmonton Startup Week 2026

As a business grows, founders often find themselves wearing too many hats. At some point, trying to manage everything internally can start holding the business back. During Edmonton Startup Week 2026, our very own Sonja Zacharko, Business Development Executive at Tier 3 I.T. Solutions, joined a panel of local business experts to discuss the challenges founders face when managing HR, IT and finances as their companies grow. The conversation explores when it makes sense to bring in outside expertise, how to recognize the warning signs that your business has outgrown its current support, and what to look for in a partner who can grow alongside you. Meet the Panel: Sonja Zacharko | Tier 3 I.T. Solutions Rebecca Lee | Vimy HR Alicia Fowler | MOD Accounting & Tax Moderated by Michelle Scully | Spark & Pony Throughout the discussion, the panel shares practical advice on recognizing business bottlenecks, making better decisions about outsourcing and fractional support, and freeing up founders to focus on what they do best. One point Sonja emphasizes is the importance of finding an IT partner who understands where your business is headed, rather than simply showing up when something breaks. The right relationship should support your business as its needs change. A big thank you to Edmonton Startup Week, ATB and everyone who joined the conversation! About Tier 3 I.T. Solutions Tier 3 I.T. Solutions helps Alberta businesses overcome technology challenges with proactive IT support and managed IT services, so business owners can spend less time worrying about technology and more time growing their companies. #EdmontonStartupWeek #Tier3IT #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #ManagedIT #EdmontonBusiness