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Canadian Tech in 100 Words

New Fintech Transforms Rent Payments into Credit Scores

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Toronto-based Karla Rent has emerged from stealth mode with a credit-building rental payment platform designed to help credit unions compete with big banks. The fintech offers secure, financial wellness tools that integrate directly with institutions, ensuring renters’ on-time payments boost credit scores.

BCU Financial is among the first adopters, offering Ukrainian newcomers a way to establish credit. LeasesThatLift, Karla Rent’s broader initiative, expands financial inclusion beyond banking. Co-founders Robin Gray and Basil Eleftheriades emphasize that rental payments should count toward financial progress, with open banking solutions on the horizon.

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

Developers Embrace AI: 96% See Positive Change in Their Field

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A Salesforce report finds over 90% of developers are excited about AI’s impact on their careers, with 96% expecting AI to improve development. The survey of 2,000+ software leaders and 250 U.S. developers reveals agentic AI is set to transform the field, with four in five leaders believing AI agents will be as vital as traditional tools.

Developers see AI increasing efficiency, automation, and career growth, though many seek more training and resources. AI agents are reshaping development, says Salesforce EVP Alice Steinglass, shifting focus from manual coding to high-level strategy.

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

U.S. Slaps Tariffs on Canada, Tech Leaders Push Back

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The U.S. has imposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods and 10% on energy imports, breaking a 30-day trade truce. Canada retaliated with tariffs on $30 billion in U.S. goods, with potential escalation to $155 billion. Canadian tech leaders and business groups condemned the move, calling for economic diversification and government support.

Startup founders report soaring costs, with Healthybud paying triple shipping fees and SRTX laying off 40% of staff. Despite challenges, some Canadian businesses are seeing increased domestic demand, with Costco Canada and Tre’Dish prioritizing homegrown products. The trade war’s full impact remains to be seen.

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

Calgary Challenges Vancouver for Western Tech Supremacy

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The battle for Western Canada’s tech crown is heating up as Calgary gains ground on Vancouver. Alberta’s low taxes, affordable housing, and aggressive recruitment through the “Alberta is Calling” campaign have drawn skilled workers away from B.C. Venture capital in Alberta outpaced B.C.’s for the first time in early 2024, though Vancouver still leads in deal value and established tech firms.

Experts warn B.C. risks losing its edge due to high taxes and business costs, while Calgary still lacks anchor tech firms to cement its rise. The West’s tech power dynamic is shifting.

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

Canada Launches First AI Strategy for Federal Government

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The Government of Canada has unveiled its first AI Strategy for the federal public service, aimed at enhancing operations, improving digital services, and ensuring responsible AI use. Announced by Treasury Board President Ginette Petitpas Taylor at the University of Waterloo, the Strategy focuses on four key areas: an AI Centre of Expertise, security and accountability, talent development, and public transparency.

The initiative seeks to remove barriers to AI adoption, modernize legacy systems, and drive interdepartmental collaboration. The federal government aims to position Canada as a leader in AI innovation while ensuring ethical and secure implementation.

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

Calgary’s PurposeMed Raises New Capital for U.S. Expansion

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Calgary-based PurposeMed has secured growth investment led by True North Fund, with backing from BDC and Panache Ventures, to expand its digital healthcare services. Ranked Canada’s second-fastest-growing tech company, PurposeMed provides telehealth solutions for underserved communities through its platforms Freddie, Frida, and Foria.

Its work in HIV prevention, gender-affirming care, and behavioral health has led to $200 million in annual healthcare savings. CEO Dr. Husein Moloo says the funding will scale operations as the company enters the U.S. market. True North Fund calls PurposeMed a leader in reimagining care delivery.

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

Vancouver Fintech Unveils API GPT Assistant for Developers

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Vancouver-based VoPay has launched API GPT Assistant, an AI-driven tool designed to streamline payment solution integration for developers and product teams. Built on GPT technology, the assistant enables coding support, real-time troubleshooting, and API call generation across multiple programming languages, including Python, JavaScript, C#, and PHP.

It also assists in building front-end financial UI components, such as payment forms and compliance dashboards. CEO Hamed Arbabi highlighted its role in reducing fintech integration friction, while VP Faizal Karim called it a 24/7 expert for developers, ensuring faster and more accurate deployments.

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

Firefly’s Moon Mission Succeeds, Carrying Canadian Tech

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A NASA-funded private moon mission carrying Canadian technology has successfully landed. The Blue Ghost lander, built by U.S.-based Firefly Aerospace, touched down over the weekend, marking one of the most successful private lunar missions to date.

Aboard were Quebec’s NGC Aerospace, whose software maps lunar craters for navigation, and Ontario’s Integrity Testing Laboratory, which contributed to a moon dust experiment. Unlike past failed or damaged private landings, Blue Ghost arrived intact after a 46-day journey. The lander is expected to operate for two weeks, until lunar night halts its mission.

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

Manitoba Innovates Launches to Boost Startup Growth

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Manitoba’s startup ecosystem is evolving with the launch of Manitoba Innovates, a new organization merging Manitoba Technology Accelerator (MTA) and Tech Manitoba. Announced at MbTech Week’s Ignition event, it aims to streamline resources, foster innovation, and boost economic growth.

Backed by North Forge, the initiative will connect startups with funding, industry networks, and strategic support. MTA CEO Paul Card hinted at a new funding program for early-stage startups, while Tech Manitoba’s Kelly Fournel emphasized the collaborative mission. Manitoba Innovates seeks to position the province as a key hub for entrepreneurship and innovation.

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

Merchkit Secures $2M to Expand AI-Powered Merchandising Tech

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Merchkit, a Canadian AI-powered merchandising platform, has secured $2 million in pre-seed funding to enhance automation for retailers, marketplaces, and brands. The round, led by San Francisco’s Afore Capital, included Antler Canada and angel investors.

Founded in 2022, Merchkit’s AI scans the web to extract product data and automates catalog standardization, boosting efficiency by up to 90%. The platform integrates with Shopify, WooCommerce, and Salesforce Commerce Cloud. CEO Bijan Vaez, a serial entrepreneur, said the funding will support product development and hiring, with engineering roles now open.

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