Certn is a Canadian-based technology company specializing in AI-powered background screening and identity verification. It serves businesses of all sizes across industries like HR, property management, financial services, and gig platforms. Certn’s mission is to simplify and modernize background checks using automation, global data access, and mobile-first design.

• Headquarters: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

• Founded: 2016

• Industry: Business/Productivity Software

• Employees: Over 300 as of 2025

Certn was founded by Andrew McLeod (CEO), Owen Madrick, and Evan Dalton. The company began as a response to outdated, slow, and manual background check processes. By leveraging AI and automation, Certn quickly gained traction among startups and enterprise clients.

• Founders: Andrew McLeod, Owen Madrick, Evan Dalton

• Initial Launch: Focused on employment screening and tenant verification

• Growth: Expanded globally with coverage in over 150 countries and data from 200,000+ sources

Certn’s platform is modular, scalable, and designed for ease of use:

• Softcheck: AI-driven background screening tool scanning criminal records, court data, adverse media, watchlists, registries, wage and income data, and social media

• EID+: Enhanced identity verification using biometric and document scanning

• API & Integrations: Seamless integration with ATS platforms like Workday, Lever, and Greenhouse

• Global Dashboard: Centralized management of checks across jurisdictions

• Mobile Optimization: Candidate-friendly experience on any device

Certn has expanded its capabilities through strategic acquisitions:

• Trustmatic (2023): Strengthened identity verification and fraud detection

• InterCheck: Enhanced compliance and screening in Australia

• Credence: Broadened UK market reach and added new verification tools

Certn continues to innovate with new tools and enhancements:

• AI-Powered Risk Scoring: Predictive analytics for candidate risk profiles

• Behavioral Profiling: Psychometric and social feedback mechanisms

• Real-Time Updates: Faster turnaround times and dynamic data refresh

• White-Labeling: Customizable portals for enterprise clients

Certn emphasizes transparency, trust, and innovation:

• Core Values: Trust, speed, simplicity, and compliance

• Work Culture: Remote-friendly, inclusive, and mission-driven

• Leadership Ethos: “Don’t settle for how things have always been done”—a mantra that drives continuous improvement

Certn serves a diverse and growing global clientele:

• Clients: Governments, multinational corporations, gig platforms, banks, and property managers

• Community Engagement: Active in HR tech forums, compliance webinars, and startup ecosystems

• Competitors: Checkr, IDfy, Fama—Certn is often praised for its speed and ease of use compared to legacy providers