Ottawa IT firms merge to boost cybersecurity advisory

Fuelled Networks has merged with Intega IT. The combined business will operate in Ottawa under the Intega IT name.

The deal brings together two managed IT services firms with long histories in the local market. Fuelled Networks was founded in 1993 and Intega IT in 2001. The merged company has more than 30 staff based in Westboro and will serve businesses across Ottawa and Eastern Ontario.

The transaction comes during a period of change for managed service providers in Canada, as cybersecurity, AI advice and broader IT planning become more central to customer demand. It also arrives as many firms in the sector weigh acquisition offers from private equity buyers or larger industry groups.

Under the new structure, John Robinson remains Chief Executive Officer of Intega IT and Ernie Sherman becomes President. Sherman, who led Fuelled Networks from 1998, is described as having a strong background in cybersecurity strategy.

Robinson said the merger is intended to strengthen the company's role as an IT adviser to clients, rather than simply a provider of day-to-day technical support.

"We've always believed IT should be integrated into the core of a business," said John Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of Intega IT. "Our role is to align technology with business goals and support growth. Bringing our teams together strengthens our ability to do that at a deeper level."

The two firms followed similar approaches in the market, building security into service delivery rather than selling it as a separate product. That model has become more common as small and mid-sized organisations face growing pressure to manage cyber risk while adopting new software tools and AI systems.

Local ownership

One notable aspect of the merger is that the combined company will remain locally owned. That sets it apart from a broader consolidation trend in the IT services market, where independent operators are often absorbed by private equity-backed platforms seeking regional scale.

Sherman said that route was not the right fit for the two Ottawa businesses.

"We've respected each other as friendly competitors for years," said Ernie Sherman, President of Intega IT. "What became clear is how aligned we are in valuing a client-centric approach and investing in our people. Selling to private equity was never the right path for us. Partnering locally allows us to grow while staying true to who we are."

Integration of the two teams has already been completed, and customers will continue to receive uninterrupted service. The larger organisation will also have greater in-house depth in cybersecurity and strategic IT planning.

Security focus

Cybersecurity is a central theme of the deal. Both businesses view security as a basic business requirement rather than an optional layer, particularly as threat levels shift and companies rely more heavily on cloud software, remote access and connected devices.

Sherman said that environment requires businesses to keep updating their approach rather than treat security as a one-time project.

"Security isn't static," said Sherman. "The baseline is always changing. New threats emerge, technologies evolve, and businesses need structured action plans to adapt. Our focus is helping clients stay ahead," said Sherman.

The combined company also plans to expand its advisory work on AI. For managed service providers, that role is becoming more important as smaller businesses seek help deciding which tools to adopt, how to control data risks and how to set internal rules for use.

Robinson linked that shift to a broader view of technology as a business issue rather than a back-office function.

"Technology today sits at the centre of every business. Our partnership is to make sure it works securely, reliably, and strategically for all the businesses that we support," said Robinson.

Community ties

Beyond commercial clients, both firms highlighted their longstanding involvement with community and non-profit organisations in Ottawa. Their work has included technology support, equipment donations, sponsorships and board participation.

Intega IT is the official IT partner of Atlético Ottawa and has supported Carty House since 2015 with hardware, computers and IT services. It also cited its role as presenting sponsor of The Snowsuit Fund's annual Snowball Gala, where Robinson serves on the board of directors.

Fuelled Networks pointed to its work with the Ottawa Hospital Foundation, as well as contributions to The Ottawa Mission and the Ottawa Food Bank. The merger, it said, will give those community relationships access to broader technical resources and support.

Robinson said that work is part of the company's identity in the local market.

"Giving back to our community is central to who we are," said Robinson. "Ottawa has supported our businesses for decades. By providing technology, sponsorship, and guidance, we help our community thrive," added Robinson.