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Canadian Tech in 100 Words

 

Vancouver’s Semios Rebrands as Almanac, Leading Agtech Innovation

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Vancouver’s Semios has officially rebranded as Almanac, a global leader in agricultural technology. This transformation brings together Semios’ crop management expertise and Agworld’s farm management platform under one brand, covering over 100 million acres of farmland worldwide.

CEO Sumer Johal, who joined in 2023, envisions Almanac as a sustainable, data-driven farming solution, powered by its AI platform Alma. The rebrand solidifies Vancouver’s growing influence in the agtech sector, offering farmers actionable insights to improve crop yields and reduce costs.

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

50% of Canadians Delay Medical Care Due to System Barriers

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A new report from Maple, titled Health on Hold, reveals that 50% of Canadians delay seeking medical advice due to barriers in accessing proactive healthcare. Based on a survey by the Angus Reid Forum, the report highlights that 81% of Canadians face obstacles, with many turning to search engines instead of consulting doctors.

The report underscores a critical need to transform Canada’s healthcare system, as lack of access to primary care is leading to costly interventions. Maple CEO Brett Belchetz emphasized that proactive care could improve outcomes and reduce healthcare strain by leveraging technology.

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

Hiive Surpasses $1 Billion in Transactions on Private Stock Marketplace

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Vancouver-based fintech Hiive has surpassed $1 billion in transactions on its online marketplace for private company stocks, following its Canadian launch last year. The platform allows accredited investors to buy and sell shares in privately held, VC-backed companies without the need for a broker.

Co-founder Prab Rattan noted this milestone reflects the trust clients have placed in Hiive. With traditional exit paths for VC-backed companies limited, Hiive provides a crucial liquidity solution. The company is now handling more than $100 million in monthly transaction volume and is poised for continued growth.

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

Coinbase Expands in Canada, Supporting Crypto Community and Hiring 40+

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Coinbase has expanded its “Stand with Crypto” campaign into Canada, aiming to support the country’s five million coin holders and push for regulatory clarity. According to Coinbase Canada CEO Lucas Matheson, the company is well-positioned to help Canada lead the global crypto economy.

The move follows Coinbase’s growing investment in Canadian startups like MinervaAI and Dapper Labs. Canada is Coinbase’s largest talent hub outside the U.S., and the company is currently hiring over 40 roles in engineering, marketing, and security.

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

59% of Canadian Students Use Generative AI in Schoolwork

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A new KPMG in Canada survey reveals that 59% of Canadian students now use generative AI for schoolwork, up from 52% in 2023. Although 75% say these tools improve assignment quality, two-thirds worry they aren’t learning as much. Alarmingly, 82% of students admit they claim AI-generated content as their own work, while 70% turn to AI rather than seeking help from instructors.

With educators facing pressure to set clear guidelines, KPMG’s C.J. James emphasized the importance of balancing AI use with critical-thinking skills. Students want more AI in course planning, admissions, and career services.

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

Intuitive AI’s Recycling Tech Powers Portland Trail Blazers’ Moda Center

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Intuitive AI, a Vancouver-based startup, is rolling out its AI Recycling Assistant, Oscar Sort, at Oregon’s Moda Center, home of the Portland Trail Blazers. The technology helps fans sort waste by recognizing compostable, recyclable, and reusable items, diverting them from landfills.

The initiative supports the Moda Center’s Rip City Reuse program, which replaces 500,000 single-use cups annually. Jackie Ventura, VP of Facility Operations for the Trail Blazers, said Oscar will enhance fan engagement and sustainability efforts. Each Oscar unit is energy-efficient and offsets the CO2 equivalent of 10 cars annually.

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

Shoppers Drug Mart’s Shift to Pharmacist-Led Care Marks Strategic Change

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Shoppers Drug Mart sold its 10 physician-led clinics to Well Health, refocusing on simpler prescription and diagnosis services pharmacists can now offer, said spokesperson Aly Vitunski. This strategic pivot aligns with expanding provincial policies that empower pharmacists.

Well Health vice-president Jeremy Mickolwin suggested another factor: the clinics weren’t making money, partly due to the high cost of recruiting doctors. After acquiring the clinics, Well reported modest operating profits, though smaller than its other recent acquisitions. Shoppers’ original plan envisioned a comprehensive healthcare strategy, combining telemedicine, clinics, and home-care services.

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

Calgary Unveils Wave Tech Centre to Transform City Services

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Calgary has launched the Wave Tech Centre, a facility designed to drive technological innovation and enhance public services. Supported by Prairies Economic Development Canada, the Centre is part of Calgary’s Smart Cities program. The facility features advanced tools, including virtual reality, AI infrastructure, and 3D robofabrication, allowing city teams to test and implement new technologies.

Mayor Jyoti Gondek praised the Centre’s ability to provide data-driven solutions that improve service delivery. The Centre will also promote sustainability through innovative cooling technologies and aims to become a hub for local innovators.

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

Ocean Startup Project Announces 16 Companies for 2024 Challenge

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The Ocean Startup Project has named 16 companies for its 2024 Ocean Startup Challenge, each receiving up to $25,000 in non-dilutive funding and a comprehensive support package. The startups, spanning sectors from sustainable seafood to marine biotechnology, will benefit from business development resources and mentorship.

Natasha Legay, Director of the Challenge, praised their creativity and passion, highlighting their solutions to critical global ocean issues. Seven of the selected startups hail from British Columbia, including Celerity Craft and Fibr.Bio. The Challenge provides key insights into innovation trends in the blue economy.

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

Six Canadian Startups Named in Cleantech 50 to Watch List

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The Cleantech Group has released its 2024 Cleantech 50 to Watch list, highlighting early-stage ventures tackling global environmental challenges. This year, six Canadian companies made the prestigious list: Ayrton Energy and Litus from Calgary, Nxlite and ThinkLabs AI from Toronto, TerraFixing from Ottawa, and Tersa Earth from Vancouver.

Key trends include hydrogen innovation, with Calgary-based Ayrton Energy leading the way with its breakthrough in hydrogen storage. CEO Natasha Kostenuk believes the recognition will help bring more attention to their clean energy solutions. The list offers a glimpse into the future of cleantech innovation.

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