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Canadian Tech in 100 Words

B.C. Startup Turns Parked Cars into Grid Assets

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Vancouver’s Fuse Power Management is advancing Canada’s clean energy future by transforming electric vehicles into grid-balancing tools. A finalist for BC Tech’s Startup of the Year, Fuse is deploying the nation’s first field-based V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) project with BC Hydro, cities, and school fleets.

CEO Rob Safrata—a former Olympian and Globe and Mail’s “Greenest CEO”—says EVs can ease pressure on strained energy systems. Backed by NorthX Climate Tech, BC Hydro, and others, Fuse is building real-world networks that link EVs, data, and utilities. Rooted in B.C.’s climate tech community, the company is letting action speak louder than theory.

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

Calgary Firm Digitizes Hazardous Waste and Dangerous Goods Compliance

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Calgary-based EnviroApps is leading Canada’s shift from paper-based to digital Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) documentation. Founded by compliance expert Amit Bhargava and software developer Mayank Singh, the startup delivers the nation’s first proven electronic TDG platform, 100% compliant per Transport Canada audits.

Backed by real-world pilots, including Alberta’s first commercial hydrogen station, EnviroApps boosts safety, ESG reporting, and recordkeeping. Their success stems from industry collaboration, lean operations, and Alberta’s innovation climate. With support from Platform Calgary, EnviroApps is replacing clipboards with secure, scalable tools—ushering in a new era of digital compliance.

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

Crumbl Cookie Taps Canadian Tech to Cut Costs

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Vancouver-based Push Operations has announced a major U.S. partnership with Crumbl Cookies, bringing its workforce management platform to over 1,000 locations. The cloud-based system streamlines scheduling, payroll, time tracking, and HR, easing administrative demands in the fast-paced hospitality sector.

Crumbl franchisees will now have access to data-driven labor tools, enabling real-time decisions and improved cost control. “We’re simplifying workforce management so owners can focus on what they love,” said Push CEO Tina Lum. The partnership arrives as rising labor costs pressure operators to adopt smarter tech.

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

Real Estate Agents Get AI Boost from Virtuo

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Calgary’s Virtuo has partnered with Royal LePage Benchmark to bring its AI-powered real estate platform to more than 200 agents across Alberta. The move will equip Benchmark’s agents with a unified tool for operations, client service, and post-sale engagement.

“This partnership is an investment in our agents and their success,” said Benchmark broker Corinne Lyall. Virtuo’s HomieAI™ blends automation with personalized support, aiming to elevate the homeownership experience. CEO Casey Kachur calls it “a new standard for real estate professionals.”

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

Bitzero Raises $25M to Expand Green Mining

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Vancouver-based Bitzero has secured US$25 million in funding, with plans to purchase 2,900 crypto mining rigs expected to generate an additional US$10 million annually. Though investor details were not disclosed, the ESG-focused company is backed by Kevin O’Leary, a long-time advocate of sustainable bitcoin mining.

Bitzero operates four mining sites across three countries, leveraging hydro, solar, wind, and select gas sources. While major cryptocurrencies have pivoted to less energy-intensive validation systems, Bitzero continues promoting greener mining practices in a market cooling on ESG narratives.

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

Ontario Invests $5M in Forest Bioeconomy

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The Ontario government is investing $5 million in Thunder Bay-based CRIBE (Centre for Research and Innovation in the Bioeconomy) to support sustainable forest innovation. The funding backs CRIBE’s “Growing Ontario” initiative, aimed at developing wood-based bioproducts and boosting the forest sector.

It’s the largest share of a $6.2-million investment under Ontario’s Forest Biomass Program, which supports projects that utilize forest byproducts. CRIBE has helped fund 42 projects worth over $162 million, including drone-based reforestation and biomass-derived soil additives.

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

FireSwarm’s Drone Swarms Tackle Wildfires Overnight

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B.C.-based FireSwarm Solutions is using jet-powered, ultra-heavy-lift drones to battle wildfires—even overnight. Founded after CEO Alex Deslauriers lost his property in the 2023 Gun Lake wildfire, the startup coordinates drone swarms to suppress fire hotspots when conventional aircraft are grounded.

A finalist for Startup of the Year at the 2025 BC Tech Awards, FireSwarm has raised $1.1 million and secured pilots in Kelowna and Sweden. Backed by NRC IRAP and NorthX, it’s tackling deep-tech challenges with global ambition and local urgency. “We’re building something that matters,” says Deslauriers.

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

Taiga, Aqua Team Up to Power Electric Rec

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Montreal-based Taiga Motors has partnered with Aqua superPower to expand charging infrastructure for electric recreational vehicles. The alliance will enable faster, more reliable charging across Taiga’s lineup of snowmobiles and personal watercraft, supporting private users and commercial fleets.

Aqua superPower operates a dockside DC fast-charging network spanning 59 sites in North America and Europe. Taiga customers will benefit from Level 2 to 250 kW chargers, including yacht integration and fleet-site options. CEO Sam Bruneau called the partnership a milestone for electrification. COO Karen Gill said the collaboration aligns infrastructure with demand to accelerate adoption.

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

Calgary Startups Sought for Innovation Week Showcase

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Since 2010, Calgary’s Launch Party has celebrated top early-stage startups during Innovation Week. The 2025 edition is now open for applications and nominations until August 29. Ten selected companies will gain exposure, pitch live on stage, and engage with investors, mentors, and alumni.

Eligible startups must be Calgary-based, product-driven, and less than three years old, with traction and in-market offerings. Last year, ResVR, The Reporting Hub, and Moovez earned top accolades. Launch Party continues to spotlight Calgary’s tech talent and foster entrepreneurial momentum.

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

AI Powers New Approach to Workforce Learning

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Absorb Software’s 2025 State of Upskilling report reveals a disconnect between intention and execution in workforce development. While many employers recognize the importance of upskilling, over one-third lack the tools to implement effective programs.

The Calgary firm warns of an “agility gap,” with only 10% adapting training to business needs. CEO Kimberly Williams advocates for “strategic learning”—scalable, measurable solutions aligned with outcomes. Absorb’s AI-powered platform aims to address this gap through hyper-personalized, impact-driven experiences. With AI and hybrid work reshaping business, timely upskilling is becoming critical for resilience.

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