Toronto Fintech Targets Tax Pains with Platform Built by Creatives for Creatives

A financial technology startup based out of Toronto is bent on empowering artists and other creative freelancers to optimize their tax and money management.

Founded last year, Saiwala Inc. is preparing to launch “Sai,” a web-based platform that offers a range of services to address unique challenges faced by creatives.

After two years of research, tax season emerged as the number one stressor for artists and creatives.

“Welcome to the world of intelligent taxes, designed for freelance creatives,” the startup says, noting how users can file taxes with a single click, which can reduce stress and confusion associated with tax season.

Promising “no confusing paperwork,” Sai aims to catch “every possible business expense” as transactions are reviewed in real-time, distilling this data in a monthly “money snapshot.”

“Sai will tell you how much to put aside for taxes every month, plus how much you made, how much you spent, and what you’ve got left,” the fintech says.

When taxes are filed through sai, an in-house accountant reviews the return, ensuring audit-protection and accuracy, according to the company.

“Our mission is to give you a safe, affordable, shame-free solution that relieves your tax stress and gives you back the time and money you deserve,” Sai sates on its website. “With decades of experience in arts leadership, business development, and computer engineering, the Sai team is in a unique position to remove the stress, overwhelm, and confusion artists face when it comes to all things money.”

The company was established in Toronto by Mustafa Petiwala, who serves as chief of technology, and Owais Lightwala, whose role is CEO.

“As creatives and artists ourselves, we know the impact money management can have on your mental health, career growth, and ability to focus on your craft,” they say. “We’re here to change the game.”

Canadians have an opportunity to meet the founders of Saiwala and the rest of the IHF cohort on November 30th at the annual Demo Day in downtown Toronto.

At the event, startups will showcase their companies and network with industry, investors, and leaders across the tech and financial services spaces.

Past cohorts have included startups such as Calgary’s ZayZoon, Toronto-based PolicyMe, and Calgary’s Woveo.