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Canadian Tech in 100 Words

DeepSeek’s $6M AI Model Just Shook Up the Industry

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A small team of AI researchers has upended the belief that only billion-dollar tech firms can lead artificial intelligence innovation. DeepSeek R1, a foundation model reportedly built for under $6 million, is challenging industry giants OpenAI, Google, and Meta. This breakthrough disproves two key assumptions: that AI dominance requires massive budgets and that more hardware guarantees better models.

AI startup founders, like those at Caseway, see this as validation that efficiency and execution can surpass legacy players in legal tech and beyond. Industry leaders are now on notice—lean AI innovation is here to stay.

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

Sound Blade Medical Secures $24M for Ultrasound Therapy

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Halifax-based Sound Blade Medical has raised $24 million in Series A funding, co-led by Amzak Health and Lumira Ventures, with participation from Invest Nova Scotia. The funds will advance clinical validation and regulatory approvals for its handheld ultrasound-guided histotripsy device.

Histotripsy is a non-invasive, non-thermal ultrasound technology that liquefies targeted tissue without surgery, reducing recovery times and complications. CEO Jeremy Brown, Ph.D., says the investment accelerates Sound Blade’s mission to bring this precision therapy to patients.

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

Survey: 77% of Canadian Students Use AI for Studying

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A 2025 Canadian Student Wellbeing Survey by YouGov and Studiosity reveals that 77% of students use AI for academics, yet 74% feel stressed about it. Male students lead AI adoption at 84%, while over half believe universities aren’t adapting fast enough. Concerns include accuracy, ethical use, and cognitive offloading, with 65% doubting AI enhances learning.

“Fear of failing” ranks high among AI users, particularly lower-achieving students. Experts urge institutions to implement approved AI tools to ensure ethical and effective learning support.

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

VueReal Secures $40.5M to Scale MicroLED Production

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Waterloo-based VueReal has raised USD $40.5 million in Series C funding to expand its MicroSolid Printing™ technology, a breakthrough in microLED manufacturing. Led by Export Development Canada (EDC), the round included Cycle Capital, BDC Capital, and TDK Ventures.

VueReal’s technology enables cost-effective, high-volume microLED production for consumer electronics, automotive, and healthcare. CEO Dr. Reza Chaji said the funding will scale mass production and expand partnerships. EDC’s Lissa Bjerkelund emphasized VueReal’s global potential in micro semiconductor innovation.

The company continues advancing patents and supplier partnerships, reinforcing its leadership in microLED technology.

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

Canada’s Tech Brain Drain Worsens as US Salaries Soar

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A new Logic report highlights Canada’s ongoing brain drain, showing tech workers continue to migrate to the US for significantly higher wages. Data from Toronto Metropolitan University’s Dais reveals US tech salaries are nearly 50% higher than in Canada, with superior stock options and benefits.

Comparisons between cities reinforce the trend. A software engineer in Seattle earns $222,000, nearly double Vancouver’s $121,000, despite similar living costs. In San Francisco, salaries more than offset soaring rents, making it difficult for Canadian cities to compete. The report suggests frictionless cross-border mobility further accelerates the trend.

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

Canada’s Proptech Sector Sees Rapid Growth, AI Potential

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A new Proptech Collective report highlights the rapid rise of Canada’s property technology industry, with over 500 active firms. More than 75% launched in the last decade, and 28% are at the pre-seed stage. The Greater Toronto Area dominates the sector, followed by Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal.

Stephanie Wood of Alate Partners says early business models have refined investor strategies, while AI is poised to drive future innovation. “It’s an exciting time,” she said. The report predicts continued efficiencies in real estate transactions and advancements in modular construction.

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

OneVest Lands $27M to Disrupt Wealth Management

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Toronto fintech OneVest has raised $27M in Series B funding, led by Salesforce Ventures, to expand its wealth management platform. The round includes Allianz Life Ventures, TIAA Ventures, and returning investors OMERS Ventures and Deloitte Ventures.

CEO Amar Ahluwalia says the funding will accelerate AI-driven client engagement and expand alternative investment offerings. OneVest is deepening integrations with BlackRock, Vanguard, and Salesforce Financial Services Cloud to enhance financial institutions’ advisory services.

With $84T in wealth set to transfer between generations, OneVest aims to equip enterprises with next-gen tools for digital transformation.

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

Canada’s Video Game Industry Drives $5B GDP Contribution

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Canada’s video game industry remains a key economic force, with 800 studios employing 34,000 people and contributing over $5 billion to GDP, according to a new ESAC report.

Despite a 3% drop in employment since 2021, the industry saw a rise in full-time roles and a 21% salary increase, pushing average earnings above $100,000. Quebec leads in workforce size with 15,000 employees, followed by B.C. (11,000) and Ontario (6,000).

“Canada’s video game industry continues to mature, creating high-quality jobs and driving innovation,” said ESAC CEO Paul Fogolin.

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

Miru’s eWindows Aim to Cut Energy Use and Boost EV Efficiency

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Vancouver’s Miru Smart Technologies is collaborating with Finnish glass leader Glaston to advance its next-generation electrochromic windows. Miru’s energy-efficient “eWindows” dynamically adjust tint using electricity, cutting building energy use by 20% and extending EV range by 10%.

“With Glaston’s expertise, we aim to scale production faster and enhance automation,” said Miru CEO Curtis Berlinguette. Research is underway at Glaston’s Tampere, Finland, facility to refine manufacturing processes.

Glaston’s Chief Sales Officer, Sasu Koivumäki, sees strong market potential for Miru’s cost-effective switchable glass. The partnership will accelerate commercial deployment in the automotive and building sectors.

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

10 MW of Solar Panels Power 3,964 Alberta Homes

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Calgary’s Jayman BUILT and SkyFire Energy have achieved 10 MW of installed solar power across nearly 60 Alberta communities since 2018. This milestone includes 28,262 solar panels installed on 3,964 Jayman homes, producing enough clean energy annually to power 14.7 million laundry loads or drive an EV around the globe 1,830 times.

“Solar is no longer a luxury but a necessity,” said Jayman COO Dave Hooge, emphasizing the company’s commitment to sustainable homebuilding. SkyFire Energy’s expertise has been crucial in reducing utility costs and carbon emissions for thousands of homeowners, advancing Alberta’s path to a cleaner future.

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