We help organizations build resilient, commercially viable businesses by designing systems that manage uncertainty, strengthen operations, and create lasting value.
Hi, I’m Ryan Nykvist
As the Founder of Catalyst and Company, I have dedicated my career to helping organizations thrive through clear, defensible decisions, stronger operations, and sustainable, financially sound growth.
I hold an Honours B.Sc. in Biology and Biochemistry from the University of Winnipeg and an Honours MBA from the University of Manitoba. Over more than a decade, my work has spanned sustainable development, industry, research, policy, governance, and organizational leadership across Manitoba and Ontario.
I am passionate about building a resilient Manitoba economy by working alongside business owners, founders, and community leaders. Drawing on my education, experience, and established best practices, I help organizations navigate complex challenges and move forward with practical, actionable plans.
A lesson from a mentor that continues to guide my work is this: a business succeeds when its people, purpose, and everyday decisions are working toward the same goal.
Beyond Catalyst and Company, I contribute to local nonprofit boards and participate in cultural, environmental, and business-policy initiatives. Outside of work, I enjoy Manitoba’s outdoors, Winnipeg’s food and music communities, and remain a loyal Winnipeg Jets fan through every win and loss.
My Approach
Every organization is different, and the strongest solutions are built around your goals, people, customers, and operating reality (not copied from a template).
I begin by listening carefully, clarifying the decision or opportunity, and focusing on what will be most useful and achievable. Drawing on practical experience, relevant research, and established best practices, I bring structure to complex information and develop recommendations that are clear, proportionate, and actionable.
Throughout the engagement, I communicate openly about scope, assumptions, timing, and next steps. The result is practical guidance, stronger tools, and a clearer path forward.
Client Testimonials
“Ryan took rough ideas and turned them into a polished, fundable project. His expertise and guidance in budgeting, financial controls, and grant writing made everything sharper, clearer, and more professional.”
Kent Heinrich, Project Manager, MB ONT Free Ride EV Education Program
Rated 5/5 Stars“Ryan’s approach to business advisory is a breath of fresh air - grounded in practical expertise, collaborative innovation, and clear, consistent reporting. His work has helped me better understand how to run my business successfully.”
Genevieve Krahn, Owner & CEO, Jane of All Trades Inc.
Rated 5/5 Stars“I would be happy to recommend Ryan. He worked closely with me to development my business plan and cash-flow model, helping me clarify my start-up costs, monthly cash needs, pricing strategy, and the sales volume needed to support my new business.”
Diana, New Venture Client, WinnipegRated 5/5 StarsA Winnipeg where purpose-driven startups, small businesses, and nonprofits have the strategy, systems, and support to stay in business, grow with confidence, and create lasting value in their communities.
Our Vision
Our Mission & Purpose
To help Winnipeg’s startups, small businesses, and nonprofits build strong foundations, make clear strategic decisions, and pursue financially sound, socially responsible, and sustainable growth through tailored, hands-on advisory support.
Our Commitment to You
Catalyst and Company is committed to providing thoughtful, practical advisory support grounded in integrity, professionalism, and sound judgment. We take the time to understand your organization, your priorities, and the context behind the decisions you face.
Our work is guided by clear communication, careful preparation, and a focus on recommendations that are useful, realistic, and proportionate to your needs. We aim to be transparent about scope, timelines, assumptions, and limitations, and to communicate openly when priorities, information, or circumstances change during an engagement.
We believe strong organizations are built through informed decisions, disciplined follow-through, and continuous improvement. Where relevant, we help clients consider financial, operational, environmental, social, and governance factors in ways that are practical for their organization.
Our goal is to help clients leave an engagement with greater clarity, stronger tools, and a practical path forward. We welcome feedback, take concerns seriously, and use what we learn to improve how we serve clients over time.
Land & Water Acknowledgement
Catalyst and Company is based in Winnipeg, on Treaty 1 Territory and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis. We acknowledge the traditional and ancestral territories of the Anishinaabeg, Anisininewuk, Ininiwak, and Dakota Oyate peoples, as well as the significance of this land to Inuit peoples.
Our work extends across Manitoba, including the Treaty territories of Treaties 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. We recognize that Winnipeg’s drinking water is sourced from Shoal Lake 40 First Nation in Treaty 3 Territory and that much of Manitoba’s hydroelectricity is generated in Treaty 5 Territory.
We respect the spirit and intent of the Treaties and recognize reconciliation as an ongoing responsibility requiring learning, accountability, meaningful action, and respectful relationships with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.