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Canadian Tech in 100 Words

Build Canada Under Fire for All-Male Policy Authors

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Six weeks after its launch, Build Canada has published 14 policy memos—all authored by men, prompting criticism over its lack of gender diversity. The initiative, backed by prominent tech leaders including former Shopify executive Daniel Debow, aims to shape federal policy ahead of the election.

Of 30 public supporters, just one is a woman—supporting her husband’s memo. Despite Debow and co-organizer Lucy Hargreaves insisting women contribute behind the scenes, critics say policy development must reflect diverse perspectives. Scholars warn male-dominated authorship limits policy relevance. Build Canada has expressed interest in attracting broader participation.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on The Logic.

Real Estate Startup Addy Hit with Securities Violation

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Vancouver-based Addy has been fined $100,000 by the BC Securities Commission for trading real estate securities without registration—marking a notable first ruling on fractional investing in Canada. Addy allowed investors to buy into properties for as little as $1, facilitating $26 million in trades over five years.

The company tried claiming a crowdfunding exemption, but the BCSC found this did not apply. Addy is now seeking registration as an exempt market dealer. As fintech outpaces regulation, legal experts cite “regulatory lag” in adapting securities laws to new investment platforms.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on The Logic.

Coinbase Expands Crypto Campaign into Canada

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Canada ranks among the most crypto-aware nations, as Coinbase expands its “Stand with Crypto” campaign northward. The initiative supports regulatory clarity and promotes the legitimacy of cryptocurrency assets. On March 27, Coinbase Canada CEO Lucas Matheson will help launch the campaign’s Vancouver event at Dapper Labs, joined by Dapper CEO Roham Gharegozlou and Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim.

The free event aims to unite Web3 developers, advocates, and businesses to foster blockchain innovation and economic growth. Canada is now Coinbase’s largest market outside the U.S., with over 200 employees and key startup investments like Dapper Labs.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

Vancouver Auto Show Drops Tesla Over Safety Concerns

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The Vancouver Auto Show has removed Tesla from its exhibitor list, citing safety concerns following recent vandalism targeting the automaker’s B.C. dealerships. Organizers confirmed the decision Tuesday, as officials investigate whether incidents like arson attacks are tied to global protests against CEO Elon Musk’s political activities.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned the violence as “domestic terrorism,” noting that the DOJ has charged multiple suspects. Beyond protests, Tesla also faces funding pushback in Canada, with B.C. recently disqualifying the company from public EV charger subsidies amid ongoing trade tensions.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on The Logic.

Canadian AI-Powered Fire Detection to Protect Brazil’s Agribusiness

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Vancouver-based SenseNet has partnered with iez! Telecom to bring its AI-powered wildfire detection system to Brazil. Already used in over two dozen Canadian communities, SenseNet’s system combines AI, long-range cameras, and environmental sensors to detect smouldering fires within one minute.

By leveraging iez!’s private 4G and 5G networks, the technology will help protect Brazil’s vast agribusiness sector, plantations, and infrastructure. CEO Hamed Noori called the collaboration a global benchmark in wildfire management. With rapid deployment underway, the system promises enhanced safety and sustainability for states, municipalities, and private enterprises.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

TELUS, NVIDIA to Launch Canada’s First Sovereign AI Factory

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TELUS, in partnership with NVIDIA, is launching Canada’s first Sovereign AI Factory, a high-security AI computing facility to advance AI innovation while ensuring data sovereignty. Set to open in Quebec by summer 2025, with expansion to British Columbia, the facility will use NVIDIA’s Hopper- and Blackwell-based GPUs for AI training and inference.

Running on 99% renewable energy, it aims to be one of the most energy-efficient AI hubs globally. TELUS is the first North American telecom to join NVIDIA’s Cloud Partner Program, reinforcing Canada’s AI leadership while keeping sensitive data within national borders.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

Summit Nanotech Raises $36.5M for Lithium Extraction

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Calgary-based Summit Nanotech has secured $36.5 million to advance its direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology. Led by Evok Innovations and BDC Capital’s Climate Tech Fund, the funding will support the commercial deployment of Summit’s denaLi™ system, which optimizes lithium recovery while reducing water use and costs.

CEO Amanda Hall highlighted the company’s transition to full-scale operations. Recent milestones include commissioning a Chile demonstration plant and qualifying its sorbent technology. With backing from Mitsui Kinzoku, LG Technology Ventures, and others, Summit is strengthening the lithium supply chain to meet growing EV battery demand.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Calgary.tech.

Miru Unveils Large-Scale Smart Sunroof for Vehicles

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Vancouver’s Miru Smart Technologies has unveiled one of the largest electrochromic sunroof devices, measuring 1.5m x 1.6m, showcasing its eWindows technology for next-gen vehicles. Developed with Argotec, a leader in TPU interlayer films, the sunroof reduces glare, improves energy efficiency, and enhances driving comfort.

CEO Curtis Berlinguette calls it a milestone for smart automotive glazing. The prototype’s compound-curved design suits panoramic sunroofs and expansive vehicle glazing. Miru’s innovation follows advancements at its Showcase Plant in Finland, aligning with the auto industry’s shift toward intelligent, energy-efficient designs.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

Ownright Aims to Simplify Real Estate Law with Tech

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Ontario-based digital real estate law firm Doormat has rebranded as Ownright, reflecting its commitment to automation and client-focused services. The company also secured a $4.5M seed round, led by Alate and Relay Ventures, bringing total funding to $6.5M. Ownright streamlines property closings, mortgage refinancing, and status certificate reviews, eliminating tedious email chains.

Since launching in 2023, the company has processed $750M in transactions and is projected to surpass $1B by 2025. CEO Robert Saunders says the rebrand aligns with the company’s mission to make real estate law efficient and transparent through technology-driven legal solutions.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Fintech.ca.

Survey: Nearly Half See AI as Less Biased Than Humans

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A new Canada-U.S. survey from AI litigation platform Alexi and Talker Research finds that 47% of North Americans believe AI will eventually be less biased than humans. Canadians are more optimistic (52%) than Americans (46%). The 2025 North American AI Outlook Report highlights skepticism, with 27% doubting AI’s fairness and 24% uncertain.

Despite trust concerns, 44% say AI will reduce repetitive tasks, and 35% expect AI to handle legal services. Support for AI education is high, particularly in Canada. CEO Mark Doble stresses AI’s role in enhancing, not replacing, professionals as industries adjust to automation.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Fintech.ca.