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Canadian Tech in 100 Words

Alberta Invests in Wearable Health Tech Innovation

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Alberta Innovates is investing $348,750 to support a new initiative aimed at advancing wearable health technology in the province. Led by the Canadian Sport Institute Alberta through its Sport Product Testing platform, the program will help startups validate, analyze, and commercialize devices measuring biomechanics and physiological data.

With support from the University of Calgary and University of Alberta, the initiative offers validation services, machine learning analytics, and expert mentorship. Originally focused on elite athletes, the program is expanding to consumer health. Officials say the effort could position Alberta as a hub for wearable innovation.

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

Montreal’s DNE Joins AppDirect’s Growing Portfolio

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San Francisco–based AppDirect has acquired Montreal’s DNE Resources, one of Canada’s largest energy brokers, as part of its continued expansion into deregulated North American energy markets. DNE manages over $250 million in annual commercial energy spending and is known for simplifying energy procurement.

The deal follows AppDirect’s acquisition of U.S.-based Broker Online Exchange (BOX), integrating both firms into a unified service platform. DNE customers will gain access to AppDirect’s BOX My Service Cloud and other value-added services. The move positions AppDirect as a one-stop hub for energy, cloud, telco, mobility, and AI procurement solutions.

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

Safe Software Expands into UK and Ireland

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Surrey-based Safe Software is expanding into the United Kingdom and Ireland, marking a significant step in its international growth strategy. Known for its FME platform, which enables enterprise integration across all data types and AI systems, the company aims to reach $250 million in revenue by 2028.

The new offices will support customers, drive innovation, and grow partnerships across Europe. CEO Don Murray emphasized the company’s commitment to helping industries transform data into action. With active hiring underway, the move reflects Safe Software’s continued global momentum and ambition to lead in the data integration sector.

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

Modular Solutions Raises Top-Tier Insurtech Seed Round

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Calgary-based insurtech Modular Solutions has secured a significant seed round led by Tailwind Ventures, joined by Clear North Capital and other private investors. The raise ranks among the top five seed-stage financings for North American insurtechs since 2023, with the second-highest pre-money valuation in the sector.

Formerly known as Nude Solutions, Modular offers configurable insurance software to replace outdated legacy systems. Funds will enhance AI capabilities, onboarding, and platform upgrades. CEO Braden Bosch remains majority shareholder and aims to scale without compromising affordability. Tailwind and Clear North emphasized the company’s strong trajectory and strategic local backing.

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

Tech Training Program Returns for Canadian Veterans

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The Roland Gossage Foundation has relaunched its Soldiers in Tech program to help Canadian veterans and military families transition into technology careers. Now in its fifth year, the program is delivered in partnership with Lighthouse Labs and offers flexible 12-week or 30-week courses in web development, cybersecurity, and data analytics.

With over 461,000 veterans in Canada—many of working age—the initiative combines technical training, career services, and wellness support to bridge military service and civilian employment. The program is backed by Employment Ontario and both federal and provincial governments. Upcoming cohorts begin in July and August.

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

Circle K Launches Digital Fleet Card with Fillip

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Calgary-based fintech Fillip and Digital Commerce Bank (DCBank) have partnered with Circle K to launch Circle K Pro DIGITAL+, a digital fleet card program designed to modernize fuel management for Canadian businesses. Issued by DCBank and powered by Visa, the platform enables instant issuance of digital fuel cards, real-time tracking, and customizable controls.

Businesses also receive exclusive fuel discounts nationwide. The initiative tackles inefficiencies in traditional fleet payment systems and enhances transparency. Fillip CEO Alice Reimer emphasized the program’s potential to boost efficiency, while Circle K’s Stéphane Trudel highlighted its ability to simplify day-to-day fleet operations.

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

Carbon Upcycling Raises $26.6M to Clean Cement

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Calgary-based Carbon Upcycling has secured $26.6 million to scale its carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technology aimed at reducing emissions in the cement industry. The round was led by Builders Vision, with backing from BDC, Climate Investment, Amplify Capital, CRH Ventures, Oxy Low Carbon Ventures, and TITAN Group.

Carbon Upcycling converts industrial CO₂ and low-value materials into sustainable cement additives. Its SCPs reduce carbon output and reinforce local supply chains. Recent milestones include a CCU project at Ash Grove’s Mississauga plant and a partnership with TITAN Group for international expansion.

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

Zūm Rails, Western Union Launch Real-Time Transfers

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Montreal-based fintech Zūm Rails has partnered with Western Union to offer real-time international money transfers through Canada’s Interac eTransfer system. The integration of Zūm Rails’ API into Western Union’s Canadian platform allows customers to fund global remittances instantly, reaching over 200 countries.

With 88% of Canadians using eTransfer and moving $338 billion in the past year, demand for faster payment options is rising. Zūm Rails CEO Miles Schwartz highlighted the importance of fintech partnerships in modernizing legacy systems. Western Union’s Ranjit Sarai praised the move as a leap toward seamless global money movement.

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

Canadians Use AI More Than They Think

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A TD and Ipsos survey reveals a paradox: while 87% of Canadians feel comfortable using technology, only 3% rate their AI skills highly. Yet 72% passed a basic AI knowledge test, suggesting greater competence than confidence.

Younger Canadians feel more familiar with AI, but Gen X and Millennials scored higher in technical knowledge. Still, trust remains low—only 43% trust AI versus 81% who trust banks. TD is tackling this gap through its Trustworthy AI framework and Layer 6 R&D center, aiming to make AI secure, understandable, and beneficial for customers.

Want to know more? Check out the source code here.

Canadian Fintech Giftbit Now Operates in 130+ Countries

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Canadian-founded fintech Giftbit has expanded globally, now supporting payouts in 25 currencies across 130+ countries. Backed by a commitment to transparency, the platform simplifies digital rewards with flexible, low-cost options like prepaid cards, gift cards, and crypto. CEO Leif Baradoy attributes growth to businesses’ rising need for global, seamless, and scalable financial infrastructure.

Giftbit’s latest innovations include a frictionless digital wallet card, a user-friendly rewards dashboard, and multi-currency support. As digital adoption accelerates, Giftbit aims to reshape global payouts by turning complexity into clarity and cost into opportunity.

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