GOVERNMENT FUNDING

The Government of Canada announced several new measures to protect Canadian businesses and workers from the impact of U.S. tariffs. (Photo by Justin Tang/The Canadian Press). They include: 

• Launching the Trade Impact Program through Export Development Canada. The program will deploy $5 billion over two years, starting this year, to help exporters reach new markets for Canadian products and help companies navigate the economic challenges imposed by the tariffs, including losses from non-payment, currency fluctuations, lack of access to cash flows and barriers to expansion.
• Making $500 million in favourably priced loans available through the Business Development Bank of Canada to support impacted businesses in sectors directly targeted by tariffs, as well as companies in their supply chains. Businesses will also benefit from advisory services in areas such as financial management and market diversification.
• Providing $1 billion in new financing through Farm Credit Canada to reduce financial barriers for the Canadian agriculture and food industry. This lending offer will help address cash flow challenges so that businesses can adjust to a new operating environment and continue to supply the high-quality agricultural and food products that Canadians rely on.

Ottawa also is introducing temporary flexibilities to the EI Work-Sharing Program to increase access and maximum agreement duration. The Work-Sharing Program provides employment insurance (EI) benefits to employees who agree with their employer to work reduced hours due to a decrease in business activity beyond their employer’s control. This helps employers retain experienced workers and avoid layoffs and helps workers maintain their employment and skills while supplementing the reduced wages with EI benefits. Finance Canada

Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) announced that the Government of Canada awarded a $3.15-billion contract (before tax), under the National Shipbuilding Strategy, to Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards for the construction of one of the Canadian Coast Guard’s (CCG) future polar icebreakers. As part of its fleet renewal plan, the CCG is acquiring two polar icebreakers. The other polar icebreaker is being built by Quebec-based Chantier Davie Canada Inc. These vessels will strengthen the CCG’s Arctic presence and have greater, more advanced capabilities than the current most capable CCG icebreakers. These larger, more powerful polar icebreakers will ensure the CCG’s operations continue at higher latitudes for longer periods, allowing its fleet to better support Indigenous Peoples, strengthen Arctic security, advance high Arctic science, and better respond to maritime emergencies. PSPC

The Department of National Defence (DND) announced Iqaluit, Inuvik, and Yellowknife as Northern Operational Support Hub locations. As announced in Our North, Strong and Free, the renewed vision for defence, Canada will invest $2.67 billion over 20 years to establish a network of Northern Operational Support Hubs. These hubs, consisting of airstrips, logistics facilities and equipment, will enable the Canadian Armed Forces to better assert Canadian sovereignty and support greater year-round presence. These hubs will function as a dispersed network of logistical stations, which will extend the Canadian Armed Forces’ operational reach, reduce logistical constraints and enhance support for military operations in the Arctic. The Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces and other federal partners are actively working to identify other hub locations and will continue to work closely with the territorial governments and local Northern and Indigenous partners through deliberate, dedicated engagements. DND

The Government of Canada and the Government of Québec announced the construction of a new Telesat campus in Gatineau, Que., expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2025 and bring 300 new jobs to the area. The $25-million facility is part of the larger $6.5-billion Telesat Lightspeed initiative, being supported by a $2.14 billion federal loan and a $400-million provincial loan from Quebec to build and operate Telesat Lightspeed, an innovative low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network. Telesat Lightspeed will take less time to send and receive information, leading to better and faster connectivity, especially in rural, remote and northern communities. The new campus will host Telesat’s network operations centre, satellite control centre and cybersecurity operation centre, as well as a state-of-the-art engineering development facility to support the deployment and operations of the LEO satellite constellation. Telesat has also committed to invest over $4.4 billion in the Canadian economy over the next 15 years, create 200 post-secondary co‑op jobs and provide $1.6 million in scholarships to students in Canada, with a focus on women in STEM programs. Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Natural Resources Canada announced the Government of Canada has entered into a preliminary agreement with Montreal-based AtkinsRéalis to support the development and modernization of a new, large-scale, natural uranium-fuelled Canadian deuterium uranium (CANDU) nuclear reactor (called the MONARK). The intent is to lend AtkinsRéalis a maximum of $304 million over four years to finance half of the design project. This modernization work will also include Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), the operators and the broader Canadian supply chain. AECL owns the CANDU intellectual property and is working with AtkinsRéalis to leverage it for success in today’s energy markets. CANDU reactors are fuelled by uranium mined in Saskatchewan without the need for enrichment. In addition to investing in this domestic, large-scale nuclear technology, Canada is also leveraging opportunities for international collaboration on emerging technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs). The government also announced $55 million in funding from Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Future Electricity Fund (FEF) to support Ontario Power Generation’s Darlington New Nuclear Project. The next phase of the Darlington project will focus on advancing three new GE Hitachi BWRX-300 SMRs, which produce zero greenhouse gas emissions during operation. As each of these SMRs will produce about 300 megawatts of electricity, the three SMRs together could supply enough electricity needed to power about 900,000 homes. The government also announced that the FEF has increased program funding from $24 million to $80 million to the Government of Saskatchewan’s Crown Investments Corporation in support of SaskPower’s SMR pre-development work. It will support pre-engineering work and technical studies, environmental assessments, regulatory studies and community and Indigenous engagement to help advance the project. NRCan also highlighted a total investment of $52.4 million for various projects supporting the development and deployment of SMRs and CANDU reactors and decarbonization efforts in Saskatchewan, Alberta and Ontario. This funding includes $11.4 million from the Enabling SMRs Program for three projects and $41 million for four projects under NRCan’s Electricity Predevelopment Program. NRCan

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) launched the AI Compute Access Fund. This fund will provide up to $300 million for affordable access to compute power for small and medium-sized enterprises to develop made-in-Canada AI products and solutions. The AI Compute Access Fund will allow innovators to access the compute capacity they need to enable the complex calculations that drive AI systems. This will address barriers to AI development in sectors that require high-performance computing capacity and demonstrate high potential for AI adoption, such as health and life sciences, energy and advanced manufacturing. This initiative is part of the Canadian Sovereign AI Compute Strategy, a federal investment of $2 billion announced in Budget 2024. ISED

The Government of Canada announced it’s working with Heidelberg Materials to finalize negotiation on a contribution agreement for the company’s Edmonton carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) plant. This announcement builds on a 2023 memorandum of understanding between the federal government and Heidelberg Materials to work toward providing up to a total of $275 million for Heidelberg's demonstration plant, the first of its kind in the cement industry in North America. The government has already entered into a $49-million contribution agreement to support the first phase of this project. Once finalized through an agreement for phase 2, this funding of up to $226 million will help support and build North America’s first commercial full-scale CCUS system in the cement sector and a combined heat and power system at Heidelberg Materials’ Edmonton cement facility. This CCUS system will enable the company to produce carbon-neutral cement through the capture and compression of carbon dioxide for subsequent transportation and permanent storage, reducing GHG emissions by up to one million tonnes annually, the equivalent of removing more than 300,000 passenger vehicles from the road each year. The funding for this project has been set aside by the Strategic Innovation Fund with a view to supporting the project once Heidelberg Materials makes a final investment decision prior to April 30, 2025. Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Genome Canada launched the Canadian Precision Health Initiative (CPHI) with $81 million in Government of Canada investment. A total investment of $200 million is expected, including co-funding from industry, academia and public sector partners. The CPHI will build Canada’s largest-ever collection of human genomic data – more than 100,000 genomes representing the diversity of Canada’s population. This collaboration will help transform health care in Canada by unlocking genome sequencing data for more personalized, preventative and cost-effective care, Genome Canada said. Powered by AI and shaped by a diverse coalition – from across the public sector, industry, academia, health care, patient groups, Indigenous organizations and non-profits – the initiative aims to generate maximum impact. In a Canadian first, the CPHI will build a public genomic data resource that reflects the nation’s diverse population. The CPHI will:

• Enhance health care options for all Canadians, enabling more precise, personalized, predictive, preventative and cost-effective healthcare options (“precision health”) for Canadians.
• Drive economic growth, empowering Canadian scientists and companies to accelerate development of world-leading, next-generation health solutions and clean economic growth.
• Strengthen health security and data sovereignty, increasing access to Canadian genomic data needed to combat major public health threats, including pandemics.

Sequencing projects will be funded through the six regional genome centres in the Canadian genomics enterprise (Genome BC, Genome Alberta, Genome Prairie, Ontario Genomics, Génome Québec, and Genome Atlantic), with co-investment from their respective government funders. Global DNA sequencing technology leader, Illumina, will provide sequencing support to deliver the 100,000 whole human genomes, enabling the initiative’s large-scale data output and aligning CPHI with other national population genomics initiatives. The Canadian Institutes of Health Research – Institute of Cancer Research will co-fund CPHI sequencing supporting cancer prevention. Additional long-read sequencing will be supported by global DNA sequencing technology leaders Oxford Nanopore Technologies and PacBio. Genome Canada

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) announced a commitment of up to $567.16 million to support hog producers should there be a closure of key export markets for Canadian pork products and live pigs due to an outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Canada or the United States. While Canada remains free of ASF, a single detection of ASF in Canada would close export markets due to international trade regulations and import restrictions imposed by trading partners. Canada is heavily dependent on pork and live pig exports, and the closure of key export markets would be devastating to the pork sector. AAFC said it will work collaboratively with individual provinces and territories to develop agreements. Once agreements are signed, the overall commitment may increase to reflect 60:40 cost-shared funding with provincial and territorial partners. The federal African Swine Fever Industry Preparedness Program provided $15.5 million to 28 recipients for 44 projects to fund early detection efforts and an effective emergency response in case of an ASF outbreak. AAFC

The Government of Alberta contributed $100 million in capital funding to transform the University of Alberta’s Biological Sciences Building into a dynamic, shared laboratory complex where researchers and students from across the university – along with industry partners – will work on solving society’s most urgent problems. The new Life Sciences Innovation and Future Technologies Centre is expected to double much-needed laboratory spaces for hands-on experimentation and increase access to high-demand programs across the university. Built in 1969, the Biological Sciences Building hasn’t had major renovations since. It will now receive major retrofitting and updating with the complex utilities, controlled environments and advanced safety features, such as protection against electrical failures and flooding, needed for a high-service laboratory complex. Possible research undertakings could include stem cell biology leading to regenerating damaged tissue, water purification technologies for rural communities, and new agricultural and plant science breakthroughs. According to an economic impact assessment, the new centre will contribute an estimated $154 million to Alberta’s economy in the first five years alone through training, economic diversification and commercialization of research, while helping to attract and retain top-tier talent and future leaders. University of Alberta

Canada Growth Fund Inc. (CGF) invested US$40 million in dcbel Inc., a Montreal-based smart home energy platform company that has developed unique bidirectional electric vehicle charging hardware integrated with a home energy management system. dcbel's “Ara” platform integrates bidirectional EV charging (letting EVs feed power back into home energy systems), advanced home intelligence and solar power generation and storage. Given its multiple functionalities and use of AI, dcbel's Ara supports renewable energy use, leverages underutilized EV batteries, and cuts energy costs for homeowners. In addition to CGF's investment, Idealist Climate Impact Fund LP, alongside other investors, will invest up to US$15 million, for a financing round totalling up to US$55 million. This funding will support dcbel's commercialization efforts across North America and Europe while maintaining headquarters in Canada, protecting Canadian intellectual property and creating high quality jobs. CGF

The Government of Ontario cancelled its $100-million contract with Elon Musk's Starlink as part of Premier Doug Ford's response to U.S. trade tariffs. The contract, signed in 2024, was intended to provide Starlink satellite internet to 15,000 remote homes and businesses in Ontario. While the Starlink cancellation does not affect individual Starlink users who have already subscribed to the service, the government's move leaves remote Indigenous communities with even fewer options for connectivity. Ford also banned U.S. companies from bidding on Ontario procurement contracts. CBC News

The Government of Canada and the Government of Nova Scotia announced funding totalling more than $36.8 million for 142 projects in Nova Scotia’s fishing and seafood sector. The funding, from the Atlantic Fisheries Fund, will help harvesters and processors modernize equipment and improve quality, productivity and sustainability in the Nova Scotia fish and seafood sector. In particular, this funding will support new infrastructure, innovation and scientific partnerships in:

• Harvesting: 72 projects will procure new equipment and develop technologies to improve onboard handling techniques, data collection and bait performance.
• Processing: 43 projects advance processing technologies and product quality to improve competitiveness and add value for the industry.
• Aquaculture: 25 projects enable the adoption of new technology and processes to support sustainable development of oysters and finfish.
• The funding also includes support for two third-party delivery projects, one with the Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance ($6.3 million) and the other with Perennia Food and Agriculture Corporation (just under $4.2 million). Both projects are aimed at increasing productivity, competitiveness, quality and sustainability of the fish and seafood sector through innovation and infrastructure-related projects. Fisheries and Oceans Canada

The Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) announced over $25 million for 18 growing AI and tech companies in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area: ACTO Technologies Inc., Ada Support Inc., A.U.G. Signals, Bam Analytix, Blue J Legal Inc., DataDocks, Ecopia Tech Corporation, FactR Limited, ForceN Inc., GoFleet Corporation, Kama.ai., Loop Financial, MARZ VFX, Off2Class, Opifiny Corp., Skygauge Robotics, TCE Group and Verta Marketing Inc. This support will help these companies scale up and commercialize new products. (FedDev Ontario)

The Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) announced over $24 million to support 10 businesses in southern Ontario: Accumetal Manufacturing Inc., ArcelorMittal Tailored Blanks Americas Limited, Brannon Steel, CES Transformers, MetalWorks Corp., North American Steel Equipment, Quad Steel, Sensor Technology Ltd., Tempel Canada and Tipco Inc. These investments are helping southern Ontario businesses to gain manufacturing capabilities, improve their competitiveness, and launch innovative solutions that support defence, energy and transportation sectors and more. FedDev Ontario

The Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) announced more than $19 million to support nine manufacturing companies: Chemicheck Inc., Colourific Coatings Ltd., Convertus York Biofuel, C.R. Plastic Products, Hybrid Power Solutions Inc., GreenMantra Technologies, Opta Glass, Phil Mauer & Associates, and Prisum Coatings Canada Inc. As part of this investment, GreenMantra Technologies is receiving $3.8 million to expand its manufacturing capabilities of 100-percent recycled plastic additives to enhance its product offering and achieve operational efficiencies. Convertus York Biofuel is receiving $3 million to equip its East Gwillimbury facility with technologies to convert organic waste into fertilizer and renewable natural gas. FedDev Ontario

Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan) announced $18.3 million in funding for seven British Columbian companies to scale up their operations, create more jobs, accelerate growth and bring made-in-B.C. products to markets around the world. EggSolutions Vanderpol's, a family-owned and operated egg processor based in Abbotsford, is receiving $5 million to expand manufacturing. With PacifiCan's support, this company will purchase new equipment, move to a larger manufacturing facility and improve wastewater treatment capability to reduce its environmental footprint. HealthTech Connex, a life sciences company based in Surrey, is receiving over $3.7 million to expand its operations. The company's advanced brain imaging medical device, NeuroCatch^® Platform, evaluates cognitive function within six minutes and is designed to help healthcare practitioners, researchers and clinicians provide the best health care to their patients. PacifiCan's investment will allow HealthTech Connex to commercialize their device across North America, Australia, New Zealand and Europe. PacifiCan

The Government of Canada and the Government of New Brunswick announced funding for nine projects totalling more than $13.3 million through the Atlantic Fisheries Fund (AFF) to strengthen the province’s fisheries. Funding recipients are:

• Nearly $3.5 million for the Fédération régionale acadienne des pêcheurs professionnels Inc.
• $879,936 for True North Salmon Limited Partnership et Cooke Aquaculture Inc.
• $3 million for Benson Lobster Co. Ltd.
• Just over $1.41 million for Kelly Cove Salmon Ltd. et Cooke Aquaculture Inc.
• Just over $1.8 million for Island Fishermen’s Co-operative Association Ltd.
• Just over $1 million for North Taste Flavourings Inc.
• $547,584 for Pêcheries Bas-Caraquet Fisheries Inc.
• $681,192 for Ichiboshi L.P.C Ltd.
• $456,084 for Clover Leaf Seafoods Corp.

The AFF focuses on increasing opportunities and market value for sustainably sourced, high-quality fish and seafood products from Atlantic Canada. Fisheries and Oceans Canada

The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) announced $10 million in additional federal funding to the Gairdner Foundation through the CIHR. This new investment, provided in Budget 2024, will be used to increase the value of Gairdner’s flagship prize, the Canada Gairdner International Award, from $100,000 to $250,000. Five of these awards are given annually to outstanding biomedical scientists whose unique scientific contributions have increased the understanding of human biology and disease. Since 1957, the Gairdner Foundation has recognized scientific excellence around the world. CIHR

The Government of British Columbia’s budget invested $30 million over three years ($10 million per year) in the Integrated Marketplace Initiative, delivered by Innovate BC. The program connects tech companies with commercial partners to test their products and services in real-world environments. The initiative has already been running for a number of years, and has helped numerous businesses scale up, expand into new markets and create more high-quality jobs and opportunities in the province. Vancouver Tech Journal

The Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) announced over $9.3 million for six agri-food companies and organizations: Agrocrop Exports Ltd., CATTLEytics Inc., Eastern Ontario Agri-Food Network, Original Foods Limited, VEL Bars, and Vive Crop Protection, supporting their growth, productivity and competitiveness in the agri sector across southern Ontario. FedDev Ontario also announced over $2.7 million to launch the Unpuzzle Mentorship Program for foodtech entrepreneurs, as well as the FoodTech NOW Funding Program. Through these programs, the Canadian Food Innovation Network will help participants grow their businesses as they commercialize new products and develop advanced technologies for use in the southern Ontario food manufacturing sector. FedDev Ontario

Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) announced $8.6 million to support 21 projects that will have an economic impact on Montreal’s East End. In November 2023, CED committed to investing $30 million over the coming years in the economic transformation of Montreal’s East End and has supported 42 projects to date. CED

Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (HICC) announced a federal investment of more than $7.2 million to design and construct the Skills Training Centre (STC) in Scarborough, Ont. Focused on upskilling and reskilling for high-demand careers, the STC will train individuals in skilled trades and trucking, in partnership with employers. Funding, provided through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program, will bring together employers, social service agencies, educational institutions and training providers through training programs and employability skills development. Designed to be inclusive, accessible and net-zero, the new facility will feature an industrial workshop, multi-purpose spaces and classrooms. HICC

The Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) announced a total investment of over $7 million for six growing AI and tech companies in Ottawa: Aerial Vehicle Safety Solutions Inc., Communication Components Antenna Inc., InPho, Mission Control, NORTAC Defence, and Trualta Care Network (Trualta). The investments are helping the companies to scale up and commercialize new products and services. The Ottawa region is home to 1,800 tech companies and more than 88,000 tech workers. FedDev Ontario

Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan) announced $6.4 million for seven organizations to drive business growth and support economic development initiatives in British Columbia. This includes $5.1 million for three organizations through PacifiCan’s Business Acceleration Pilot (BizAP) that will help small and medium-sized businesses scale up, expand into new markets and strengthen B.C.’s economy. Among the BizAP funding recipients, Alacrity Canada will receive nearly $2.5 million to expand its programming for SMEs ready for rapid growth. The Fireweed Institute is receiving nearly $1.4 million to develop and deliver new programming tailored to high-growth-potential Indigenous businesses. BC Tech is receiving more than $1.2 million to help technology-focused businesses scale up their operations. PacifiCan also announced $1.3 million in funding, through PacifiCan’s Community Economic Development and Diversification program, to help four not-for-profits boost local economic growth in communities across the province. PacifiCan

The Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) announced an investment totalling nearly $5.9 million for seven Eastern Ontario businesses: Cancoil Thermal Corporation, Custom Plastics International Ltd., Kingston Frameworks, Lighthouse Cabinetry, OPTT Inc., SnapCab and Spectra Plasmonics Inc. With this funding, these companies will scale their operations and adopt new technology and equipment to enhance their productivity and competitiveness as they serve new and existing markets. FedDev Ontario

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) announced up to $5.6 million to support 87 new projects across Canada under the Small Scale Projects component of the Local Food Infrastructure Fund (LFIF). As part of an announcement in Budget 2024, AAFC is delivering the renewed LFIF, which mobilizes $42.7 million to support production-focused projects. The program aims to improve community food security and resilience through the purchase and installation of infrastructure. This support will help increase access and availability of local, nutritious and culturally appropriate food, with a priority focus on equity-deserving groups within communities. The Small Scale Projects component provides grant funding between $25,000 and $100,000 to support infrastructure projects, such as a community garden with an irrigation system, a greenhouse with solar panels, or a food forest. AAFC

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) announced an investment of $5 million in the Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation Inc. to support the Mining Innovation Commercialization Accelerator (MICA) Network. Headquartered in Sudbury, Ont., MICA has developed an ecosystem to modernize mining, improve productivity and environmental performance, strengthen the industry’s supply chain, and increase the domestic and export sales of innovative products across the country. Since its creation in 2021, MICA has supported the creation of over 435 jobs and mobilized investments of approximately $170 million from the private sector. ISED

Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) announced more than $4.3 million to support 12 projects for Montreal. The recipients are the World Trade Centre Montréal, Maxa AI, Glycovax Pharma, SuccessFinder, Axya, DeepSight Réalité Augmentée, Quantolio Financial Technologies, Aeponyx Enterprises, Flexter, Geodar, AI Into and Tokidos. These CED investments will help launch and grow businesses, whether through the acquisition of new equipment or the development of international marketing strategies, and support organizations helping to strengthen Montreal’s appeal or to raise the profile of organizations in various markets. CED

Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) announced federal funding of more than $3.2 million for four projects across Saskatchewan. This funding will create new prospects for value-added agri-food through strategic investments in individual companies and increased capacity for the local food ingredient cluster. The agricultural manufacturing sector will also benefit from the commercialization of new technology to load railcars with improved efficiency and safety. PrairiesCan

The Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) announced an investment of over $3 million for the Schulich Venture Academy housed at York University’s Schulich School of Business to expand its programming to support more businesses and entrepreneurs. The Schulich Venture Academy delivers specialized training to entrepreneurs and startups working to build and scale their ventures. Through this project, Schulich Venture Academy will launch 10 cohorts with an enhanced curriculum, including new sector training in emerging clusters, such as artificial intelligence, electric vehicles and cleantech. FedDev Ontario

Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) announced nearly $2.9 million to support 14 projects in the Gaspésie region. The recipients are the Municipalité de Pointe-à-la-Croix; Groupement coopératif agro-forestier de la Ristigouche; Na’gu’set Mesen’g Inc. – Tracey Metallic Designs; Lelièvre, Lelièvre et Lemoignan ltée; Le Club des sportifs de Petite-Vallée; Micmacs of Gesgapegiag Band; B.B. High Performance Brake Pads (Kuma Brakes); Moulures Gaspésiennes; Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government; Événements Gaspesia; Association gaspésienne de musique Bluegrass; Rail GD; Les Produits Tapp; and the Festival international du journalisme de Carleton-sur-Mer. The funding supports economic development and diversification opportunities. CED

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) announced a federal investment of more than $2.6 million for five organizations and one community in northern New Brunswick. The Government of New Brunswick contributed $88,792 for two of the projects. This funding will help Roy Hydraulique Ltée, FIREADY INC., Virtuoze VR Inc., Restigouche Timber Trails Inc., and EcoRock Dalhousie, as well as the Regional Community of Campbellton, modernize, increase productivity attract visitors, and reduce environmental impacts. ACOA

Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) announced over $1.8 million for four not-for-profit organizations to support Alberta’s value-added agriculture industry. Projects receiving support are:

• New Harvest Canada, based in Edmonton, is receiving $1 million to advance a more resilient food production system through cellular agriculture practices, which are emerging technologies that allow for producing food from cells.
• Mackenzie Applied Research Association, based in Fort Vermilion, is receiving $262,024 to expand research and learning opportunities aimed at enhancing farming practices.
• Alberta Sugar Beet Growers, based in Taber, is receiving $223,647 to commercialize and scale up sugar beet storage solutions and unlock new markets for Alberta-grown sugar beets.
• Economic Development Lethbridge is receiving $405,285 to build and implement an investment strategy for Canada’s Western Gateway in southern Alberta, and to assist businesses to access new markets. This project will involve collaboration with municipalities along the Alberta section of the CANAMEX trade corridor, as well as key industry partners, to build a sustainable supply chain in the region. PrairiesCan

The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) announced a contribution of over $1.6 million in five infrastructure projects to grow, preserve, prepare and supply food in the Yukon. Contributing to projects like these aligns with CanNor’s goal to support innovative, practical solutions to address food security in the North, including strengthening northern food sectors by increasing the capacity of local producers. CanNor

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) announced funding of over $1.6 million to Carleton University through the Decarbonization Incentive Program. The funding will be used to replace a natural gas steam boiler with an electric boiler in the university’s central heating plant. The project is expected to cut over 2,900 tonnes of emissions in 2030, equivalent to taking 888 gasoline-powered cars off the road for a year. The federal government is supporting businesses, institutions and communities to adopt innovative lower-cost, clean energy technologies – including renewable power and energy efficiency upgrades. ECCC

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) announced funding of approximately $1.4 million to McMaster University for two projects through the Decarbonization Incentive Program. McMaster will receive up to $500,000 in funding to switch two of its buildings from natural gas heating to air-to-water heat pumps. The university will also receive around $923,000 in funding for reclaiming reactor heat, which will reuse excess heat from the research reactor on campus as the main heat source for the AN Bourns Science Building, offsetting a significant amount of the building’s natural gas usage and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Together, the two projects are expected to cut over 2,600 tonnes of emissions in 2030, equivalent to taking almost 800 gasoline-powered cars off the road for a year. ECCC

Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE) highlighted a federal investment of more than $1 million in the organization Conscious Economics, and their project, HeARTwork: Advancing Women in Business. This project will address barriers that prevent women from achieving personal and economic well-being at work, including fair and equal pay, affordable and stable housing, resources for families and children, quality benefits, leadership opportunities and safe, healthy workplaces. The project will focus on supporting diverse women with intersecting identities, including Black, Indigenous and racialized women, who are operating in the Canadian gig economy or who are precariously employed. This funding is part of the previously announced investment of up to $100 million for 163 projects to improve economic and leadership opportunities for women across Canada. WAGE

The Canada Water Agency announced over $1 million for three freshwater projects for the protection of Lake Simcoe, as part of the Lake Simcoe Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative. These projects promote innovative and collaborative approaches to tackle phosphorus pollution and support sustainable nutrient management. The projects funded are:

• $469,570 to the Holland Marsh Growers Association to reduce phosphorus loads to Lake Simcoe by promoting sustainable farming practices and using innovative approaches to reduce phosphorus runoff.
• $412,700 to McGill University to demonstrate and evaluate best management practices to reduce phosphorus runoff from urban and agricultural sources in the Lake Simcoe watershed and to engage the community through outreach and events.
• $412,700 to the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority to reduce phosphorus loads to Lake Simcoe by prioritizing agricultural best practices and assessing their effectiveness under climate change. Canada Water Agency

Innovation Saskatchewan invested more than $1 million in four industry-led research and development technologies through the Saskatchewan Advantage Innovation Fund (SAIF) and Agtech Growth Fund (AGF). These dual R&D grant programs advance the commercialization of game-changing technologies in agriculture, mining, energy, manufacturing and healthcare and help bring them to market. SAIF and AGF funding will support four innovative companies from the Spring 2024 cohort:

• EcoLoop Sustainable Technologies ($450,000 in SAIF support) – Developing a process that eliminates chemicals found in firefighting foams from soil and water while producing a material that can be used as fertilizer.
• Greenwave Innovations ($255,000 in SAIF support) – Developing a data-driven platform that automates industrial equipment monitoring, eliminating waste and unnecessary costs.
• Archetype Global 3D ($250,000 in SAIF support) – Developing an easy-to-assemble concrete 3D printer that produces building materials faster than current models on the market.
• BetterCart Analytics ($135,000 in AGF support) – Developing an advanced AI-driven price analytics platform that reduces food costs in the supply chain from distributor to customer. Govt. of Saskatchewan

RESEARCH, TECH NEWS & COLLABORATION

The Government of Canada released the terms of reference for the Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council and appointed the co-chairs of the council for a term of three years. The Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act established the council, which Ottawa said will help to ensure that the government puts the right plan in place to create opportunities for energy workers on the path to a net-zero economy. The council is tasked with providing independent advice to the government through the minister of Energy and Natural Resources and the minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour on matters related to sustainable jobs. The co-chairs are:

• Michelle Llambias Meunier, who currently serves as president and CEO of Propulsion Québec, Quebec's cluster for electric and smart transportation.
• Lionel Railton, who has over 35 years of union experience and served as the Canadian regional director of the International Union of Operating Engineers from 2012 to 2023. He also previously served as an executive board member of the Canadian Building Trades Unions and an executive council member of the Canadian Labour Congress.

The government also announced the first five selected members of the council:

• Beatrice Bruske, trade unions.
• Kaella-Marie Earle, Indigenous Peoples;
• Austin Zacharko, Indigenous Peoples.
• Caroline Brouillette, environmental non-governmental organization.
• Parand Meysami, key stakeholder group. Natural Resources Canada

The Future Skills Centre announced an investment of $14.3 million to expand more than a dozen innovative approaches to skills development addressing the urgent need to ensure Canada’s workforce is resilient and prepared for the future. The 13 projects being expanded are focused on the priorities that Canada’s prosperity depends on. Together, they address the major drivers of change – climate and technology – and advance an inclusive economy by increasing worker mobility and access to decent work, while supporting the adaptability of the small and medium-sized enterprises where the majority of people in Canada work. The investment will mean more training in construction for people in equity-seeking groups and upskilling for autoworkers shifting to electric vehicles. It will mean more training in responsible use of AI for healthcare workers and more targeted skills development and job support for newcomers. Future Skills Centre

The B.C. Centre for Agritech Innovation (BCCAI), led by Simon Fraser University, invested $4.8 million in 19 new projects and nine training programs to help tackle critical challenges faced by food producers in B.C., including soil health, indoor agriculture, plant and animal health, Indigenous food sovereignty and training opportunities. Together, the projects and programs represent a total investment of $15.5 million, including $4.8 million from BCCAI, matched with more than $2 million in cash and more than $8 million in-kind from industry. The new investment includes a $1.2-million project with Foxy Produce Ltd. The company, which operates a farm in Aldergrove and a produce store in North Vancouver, is piloting new technology to improve greenhouse insulation, potentially reducing energy costs by 50 percent. Govt. of B.C.

CIFAR announced funding for seven new projects as part of the 2024-2025 round of CIFAR AI Catalyst Grants, a program designed to catalyze new research areas and collaborations in machine learning. Grants are funded for up to $50,000 per year for up to two years to support collaborative research and exchange between Canada CIFAR AI Chairs and other researchers. Four smaller grants were also awarded in support of conference and workshop   activities, particularly those that support next-generation researchers. CIFAR

The Government of Canada launched Canada’s first AI Strategy for the Federal Public Service. The strategy was developed through extensive engagement with stakeholders, including the public and experts from a range of disciplines. The strategy will advance four key priority areas:

• establishing an AI Centre of Expertise to support and help coordinate government-wide AI efforts.
• ensuring AI systems are secure and used responsibly.
• providing training and talent development pathways.
• building trust through openness and transparency in how AI is used.

The federal government said it will use AI to enhance its scientific and research capabilities, improve the productivity of its workforce, and deliver enhanced digital services to Canadians. Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat

Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED) announced a series of initiatives to support responsible and safe AI adoption:

• a refreshed membership for the Advisory Council on Artificial Intelligence.
• the launch of the separate Safe and Secure Artificial Intelligence Advisory Group, chaired by Yoshua Bengio, professor of computer science at Université de Montreal, the founder and scientific director of Mila – Quebec AI Institute, and a Canada CIFAR AI Chair, to advise the government on the risks associated with AI systems and ways to address them.
• the publication of a guide for managers of AI systems to support implementation of Canada’s Voluntary Code of Conduct on the Responsible Development and Management of Advanced Generative AI Systems.

ISED also announced that six new organizations – CIBC, Clir, Cofomo Inc., Intel Corporation, Jolera Inc., and PaymentEvolution – are signing on to the voluntary AI code of conduct. By signing on, these organizations are pledging to apply the code to their operations when developing and managing generative AI systems. They are joining 40 other signatories that have taken the pledge. ISED

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) announced new measures to make fifth-generation (5G) millimetre wave spectrum available for innovative new services. This spectrum will be made available through ISED’s Non-Competitive Local Licensing Framework, as well as through an upcoming spectrum auction following a public consultation. The millimetre wave spectrum is a high-frequency spectrum that can carry large quantities of data over short distances. It can support highly localized mobile services, new applications such as automation in manufacturing and transportation, and fixed wireless services for internet in homes typically located in rural or remote areas. ISED said the millimetre wave spectrum will continue to improve the quality of wireless networks, promote innovation and boost productivity by supporting services such as smart agriculture, industrial automation and private networks. ISED

The Government of Canada and the Government of Nova Scotia have jointly directed the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulator to prohibit the issuance of submerged land licences foroffshore wind energy at Georges Bank, thereby creating a moratorium on offshore wind projects in the Canadian portion of Georges Bank. Georges Bank is a large ocean bank at the edge of the Atlantic continental shelf between Cape Cod and Nova Scotia that provides critical habitat for a wide range of fish, marine mammals and corals. As one of the world’s most productive fishing grounds, Georges Bank also supports thousands of jobs and vital commercial fisheries. This joint direction for an offshore wind moratorium stems from authorities created under recent amendments to the federal and provincial Canada-Nova Scotia Accord Acts to expand their scope to include the management and regulation of offshore renewable energy. The joint direction will align with the existing Canada and Nova Scotia moratorium on oil and gas activities on the Canadian portion of Georges Bank, which has been in place since 1988, in recognition of the ecological and socio-economic significance of the area. Natural Resources Canada

Funding for existing cleantech projects through Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) is flowing once more, while new applications under its National Research Council Canada (NRC) replacement program will open “early” in fiscal 2025–2026, which begins April 1, an NRC spokesperson told BetaKit. SDTC is still working to complete the transition of its programming to the NRC. Multiple investigations found evidence of conflict-of-interest and governance issues at SDTC. SDTC and the NRC are not currently accepting new funding applications. A notice on SDTC’s website indicates that its programming has transitioned to NRC and directs applicants to contact the NRC’s Industrial Research Assistance Program, which has established a successor program to SDTC called NRC IRAP Clean Technology. BetaKit

Ten Canadian universities appear in Canada’s Top 100 of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers competition. The competition evaluates employers based on successful diversity initiatives for five key groups: women, members of visible minorities, people with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples, and LGBT individuals. The winning universities are Dalhousie University, McGill University, McMaster University, Université de Montréal, University of British Columbia, University of Calgary, University of Manitoba, University of Toronto, University of Victoria, and York University. Canada’s Top 100

The Journal de Montréal published its 2025 cégep ranking, which ranks Quebec’s 52 public cégeps by program area. In each program, each cégep’s ranking is calculated from a variety of factors, including incoming students’ high school grade averages and graduation rate. Several cégeps appeared in the top five for multiple programs, including Cégep de Jonquière, Cégep Beauce-Appalaches, Collège d'Alma, and Cégep de Rimouski. The Journal also noted that the graduation gap between men and women has widened over the past 10 years. Pascale Déry, the Quebec government’s minister of higher education, expressed concern about this widening gap, but was unable to commit to renewing the action plan that includes funds for related measures. Journal de Montréal

Tech Manitoba and the Manitoba Technology Accelerator (MTA) are merging to revitalize the province’s startup ecosystem. The new entity, to be called Manitoba Innovates, which has received endorsements from the respective boards of directors, will not officially exist until the end of the year. However, Kelly Fournel, CEO of Tech Manitoba and Paul Card, CEO of MTA, said they are already effectively working together. Card, who took over MTA last June after the resignation of Marshall Ring, said he believes the merger will create more opportunities for its startup clients to engage with the more established companies who are members of Tech Manitoba. Among other things, Card said the groups are working on creating a short-term loan fund to help address access to capital that has long plagued the startup space in Manitoba. Card said the provincial and federal departments that have supported both organizations in the past are onboard with the merger. Winnipeg Free Press

Quantum City at the University of Calgary (UCalgary) is partnering with Swiss-based QAI Ventures to launch QAI’s first quantum technology accelerator in Calgary. The expansion strengthens Canada’s role as a global quantum innovation hub while bridging the European and North American markets, and will help startups navigate new market opportunities and scale globally. The official launch event on March 10 will bring onstage the first startup cohort featuring five pioneering startups pushing the boundaries of quantum computing, imaging and sensing. One of these startups, QuantaSense, is a direct spin-off from the University of Calgary.

• Qubic – Developing advanced microwave-sensing technology with quantum amplifiers for security applications.
• SynthBits Inc. – Building quantum microscopes to revolutionize medicine, diagnostics and research.
• Bosonic – Advancing quantum computing with proprietary trapped ion architecture, enabling ultra-fast, high-fidelity operations.
• Super Quantique Karma – Pioneering industrial quantum computing with its Super Quantum Station, an accessible HPC Quantum Computing Lab-as-a-Service.
• QuantaSense – Combining quantum and AI to develop the next generation of imaging and sensing technologies. UCalgary

Laurentian University and Toronto-based IAMGOLD Corporation announced the $2.5-million IAMGOLD President’s Innovation Fund for Strategic Investment. This fund will support academic and research projects aligned with Laurentian’s strategic priorities while advancing innovation in mineral resources and mining education and research. Open to students, students’ associations, faculty and staff, the fund will support:

• Projects that address challenges faced by the mining industry, providing practical, innovative education and research-based solutions.
• Projects that align with the objectives listed in Laurentian University’s Strategic Plan 2024-2029, including the Academic Plan and the Strategic Research Plan. Laurentian University

The Prairie Polytechnic Innovation Network Accelerating Commercialization for Local Ecosystems (P2INACLE) will receive just under $900,000 from Prairies Economic Development Canada. P2INACLE is led by Saskatchewan Polytechnic and involves the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, Northwestern Polytechnic, Red Deer Polytechnic, Red River College Polytech, and the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. With this funding, the network will engage with the International Minerals Innovation Institute on a pilot project to create a collaborative network that will fund and work on applied research projects. Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Calgary-based Syantra Inc. a precision biotechnology company working on novel cancer detection, announced it has received funding from Alberta Innovates to support expanded clinical studies for investigating the company’s Onco-ID™ breast blood test in women at elevated risk of breast cancer. The funding from Alberta Innovates AICE (Accelerating Innovations into CarE) Market Access program will both complement recent funding by the U.S. Department of Defense and support a pilot study with Dr. Jessica Treviño Jones of the Mays Cancer Center at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Syantra will be working in collaboration with Jones. The AICE funding will support critical work for Food and Drug Administration filings and Syantra's move into the U.S. market. This includes expanding clinical validation data for women with dense breast tissue and other risk factors and generating pilot data on the use of the test. Syantra

Victoria, B.C.-based Ocean Diagnostics, which designs scientific data-collection technologies, announced its newest invention: a robot named Ascension. Dropped from the side of a small boat, the nearly 10-kilogram (22 pounds) automated machine allows researchers to collect environmental DNA (eDNA) from marine organisms and animals up to 400 metres below the ocean's surface. The goal is to identify species at risk of extinction. Using its pump system, actuators and sensors, the robot picks up DNA that marine organisms and animals leave behind as they move through the water. It then provides real-time data to its operators. Because Ascension is so small and compact, it can do this without disturbing the often fragile ecosystems it's designed to help protect. Victoria News

A federal judge has criticized Canada’s pesticide regulator for failing to conduct a thorough scientific review before renewing the licence of a widely used glyphosate-based product. The ruling came in response to a legal challenge by four environmental groups opposing the continued sale of the pesticide, according to Blacklock's Reporter. “Simply put, I cannot connect the dots when there are none,” wrote Federal Court Justice Russel Zinn, ruling that Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency’s actions “fail to meet the legal standard of reasonableness.” The case stemmed from an October 27, 2022 petition by environmental groups urging the regulatory agency to reconsider its decision to allow Loveland Products Canada Inc. to continue selling Mad Dog Plus, a glyphosate-based pesticide. The groups submitted 61 peer-reviewed studies raising concerns about the chemical’s health effects. However, the agency renewed the licence on December 28 without confirming it had reviewed the studies. “If the scientists genuinely reviewed 61 new studies, they must have formed some reasoning as to why those studies did not raise concerns,” wrote Zinn. “We do not see that here.” The court noted that when asked how its decision could be reviewed without a record of how the studies were assessed, the agency’s legal counsel argued that renewals require a “lighter form of scrutiny.” Zinn rejected that reasoning and ordered the agency to conduct a proper review of the studies within six months or revoke the licence. The lawsuit was brought by Friends of the Earth, the David Suzuki Foundation, Safe Food Matters, and Environmental Defence. Glyphosate-based pesticides have been sold in Canada since 1976 and remain the country’s most widely used pesticide, with more than 169 registered pest control products containing glyphosate. Legal challenges surrounding glyphosate continue to mount. In 2023, the Ontario Superior Court certified a class action lawsuit against Monsanto Canada over alleged health risks. In the U.S., similar litigation led the manufacturer to agree to a US$9.6 billion settlement in 2020. Western Standard

Quebec-based electric-vehicle manufacturer Lion Electric Co. is facing a class-action lawsuit from shareholders who allege the company misled investors and misrepresented its financial health, leading to artificially inflated stock prices. The proposed securities class action claims Lion Electric, headquartered in St-Jérôme, Que., hid facts and details about its order book and production capacities from investors. Members of the class action include those who invested in the company between May 7, 2021 and Dec. 15, 2024. With US$500 million in debt, Lion Electric obtained protection from its creditors in December and is seeking a buyer with a restructuring plan that would focus only on school buses and return all manufacturing to Quebec. Shareholders allege the company’s actions led to huge financial losses for them, claiming that when Lion Electric’s struggles became public the stock lost 96 percent of its value on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges. The allegations in the class action have not been tested in court and the lawsuit has not yet been authorized. The lead plaintiff in the class-action case is Adam Mulhall, a member of Invest-Lion, a group representing investors. The Canadian Press

 Sandvine, a Texas-based firm, previously headquartered in Waterloo, Ont., completed a months-long restructuring process after filing for bankruptcy protection last November and emerged with a new name: AppLogic Networks. The company was blacklisted by the U.S. in February 2024 for allegedly selling its AI-powered technology to authoritarian governments. It has since agreed to exit non-democratic markets and will exclusively sell software. In June, a group of undisclosed shareholders took control of Sandvine from U.S. private equity firm Francisco Partners. The company has appointed former chief operating officer Mark Driedger – who’s based in Texas – as CEO and has new leadership and new owners. BusinessWire

Thousands of protestors came together on March 7 to take a stand against sweeping cuts to scientific funding and attacks against scientific organizations by the Donald Trump administration. Rallies organized by the grassroots organization Stand Up for Science took place in 32 cities across the U.S. and more than a dozen cities in Canada including Toronto and Halifax. A number of walkouts – where people literally walk out of their laboratory, classroom or office – were planned in conjunction with the protests and took place in Canada and Europe as well as in the U.S. The main event was held in Washington D.C., where speakers included popular scientists Bill Nye the Science Guy and Phil Plait the Bad Astronomer as well as renowned academics including climatologist Professor Michael E. Mann and Dr. Francis Collins, former director of the National Institutes of Health and leader of the National Genome Project. The protests follow a series of actions by the Trump administration that serve to undermine scientific research while threatening the health and safety of Americans, IFL Science reported. The second Trump administration has not yet been in power for three months but within that short timeframe, billions of dollars of scientific funding have been frozen, restrictions have been placed on topics eligible for funding, and hundreds of federal employees – many of whom are involved in life-saving work – have been laid off as part of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) cost-cutting mission. IFLScience, CBC News

VC, PRIVATE INVESTMENT & ACQUISITIONS

Teachers’ Venture Growth (TVG) which is part of the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, led a US$175-million investment round for London, U.K.-based Quantexa. Other participants included existing investor British Patient Capital. As part of this funding, Ara Yeromian, managing director at TVG, will join Quantexa’s board. Quantexa provides “decision intelligence” solutions to help enterprises and government agencies scale AI and data initiatives with greater speed and success. The company said it will use the funding to bolster its platform innovation efforts to elevate experiences for existing clients, create new partnerships and alliances, deepen its presence in North America, and pursue selected merger and acquisition opportunities. Quantexa

Toronto-based Radical Ventures led a US$26-million Series A funding round for New York-based Firsthand, which develops AI agents for brands and publishers. The round was joined by FirstMark Capital, Aperiam Ventures, and Crossbeam Venture Partners. Angel investors included former DoubleClick CEO David Rosenblatt, AppNexus and Scope3 co-founder Brian O'Kelley and Horizon Media president Bob Lord. Axios

Toronto-based Stack Capital Group Inc. invested US$10 million in New Jersey-headquartered CoreWeave, a cloud-based AI infrastructure company that provides data centres delivering high-performance compute capabilities with significant cost savings to its customers, which include Cohere. CoreWeave’s platform is designed to support a broad range of applications, including advanced data processing used in AI, machine learning, scientific research, finance, visual effects rendering and pixel streaming. Stack Capital

Montreal-based venture capital firm Holt Xchange will raise money for its FinTech seed fund through the equity crowdfunding platform FrontFundr. Holt Xchange’s FrontFundr page indicates that the early-stage investor is raising capital for the final US$2.5 million towards its $10-million target for its existing fund. The firm plans to use any capital raised to provide follow-on support to its top portfolio companies. According to the FrontFundr page, Holt Xchange has secured nearly $7.5 million to date from 86 limited partners for Holt Xchange Inaugural Fund I. Holt Xchange’s FrontFundr page does not specify how much of this amount the firm has raised through FrontFundr. Holt Xchange’s FrontFundr page indicates the firm has invested in 30 companies to date across 10 countries and has $14 million in assets under management. BetaKit

Calgary-based digital health company PurposeMed received an investment for an undisclosed amount from True North Fund, with major participation by BDC & Panache Ventures. PurposeMed provides accessible and specialized healthcare services, focusing on underserved populations across Canada and the U.S. With specialized clinicians, a scalable technology platform and vertically integrated pharmacy services, the company delivers impactful care in HIV prevention and treatment, gender-affirming care and behavioural health. PurposeMed was recently ranked the #2 fastest growing technology company in Canada and #7 in North America by Deloitte. BusinessWire

Women-led startups received $535,000 in cash investments at DMZ’s 2025 Women Innovation Summit in Toronto. Launched in 2023, the event has become a powerful platform for celebrating and accelerating women-led innovation. For the third consecutive year, The Firehood – a national network dedicated to advancing women in technology – joined as an investment partner. Following an extensive application process that drew over 200 submissions from across Canada, 10 founders took the stage to pitch their businesses. Cashew, Migranium, Edie Farming and Metronome secured a total of $535,000 in investments from The Firehood and DMZ Ventures. The summit also unveiled DMZ’s Women of the Year recipients. In response to the latest round of U.S. tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, DMZ also launched the Oh Canada Tech Directory connecting procurement leaders to homegrown innovators. Financial Post

FACIT venture capital firm and not-for-profit organization OBIO’s joint Women’s Synergistic Entrepreneurship and Economic Development (WeSEED) program announced the first cohort of women-led companies to receive investment and commercialization resources from the program. A.I. VALI Inc., Genetics Adviser Inc., AiimSense Inc., Asima Health Inc., and Cura Therapeutics Inc. represent promising startups with differentiated solutions to improve healthcare access, patient impact and economic benefits for Ontario, the organizations said. Building on FACIT and OBIO's successes in independently backing women entrepreneurs, the WeSEED program was launched to leverage the combined complementary capital, business expertise and resources of the two organizations. FACIT

REPORTS & POLICIES

Spending cuts needed to federal agencies and programs – including those for innovation – to reduce the deficit: Fraser Institute

The federal government needs to conduct a comprehensive review of all federal programs and agencies and use spending reductions – not tax increases – to reduce the deficit, according to a study by the Fraser Institute.

Targets for spending reductions should include Canada’s seven regional development agencies along with federal public service employees and their compensation, the study says.

Ottawa should produce a plan to balance the budget within three years and impose clear and strict rules for spending and borrowing, says the study, 30th Anniversary of the 1995 Budget: Lessons to Improve Canada’s Federal Finances Today.

“To improve the dismal state of federal finances, policymakers in Ottawa should apply the key lessons of the 1995 budget [from the Jean Chrétien Liberal government] to the upcoming 2025 federal budget,” study co-author Jake Fuss, director of fiscal studies at the Fraser Institute, said in a statement.

After decades of budget deficits and debt accumulation brought Canada to the brink of a fiscal crisis, the 1995 federal budget reduced spending, imposed clear and effective limits on new spending and borrowing, and established a swift path to a balanced budget, the study says.

In addition, the stronger financial foundation set by the 1995 budget allowed for large-scale tax relief over several years aimed at making Canada more competitive and attractive to investors and entrepreneurs. “The results were almost two decades of prosperity.”

The central feature of the reforms in the 1995 budget, and one of the primary reasons it was so successful, was the comprehensive review of all federal spending, the Fraser Institute study says.

Multiple studies have reviewed past instances in which governments undertake large fiscal adjustments, and show that adjustments based on spending reductions (as opposed to tax increases) are more likely to successfully reduce debt and deficits, less likely to create a recession, and generally less costly to the economy, the study notes.

In total, the 1995 federal government initially planned to cut departmental spending by 18.9 percent, with some of the deepest cuts coming from the areas of Transport (50.8 percent), Industrial, Regional, and Scientific (38.0 percent), and the Natural Resource sector (31.2 percent).

Other areas that saw shallower, though still meaningful, cuts were Defence, Justice and Legal Programs, Heritage and Cultural Programs, and Social Programs.

As part of the program review, the federal government considered a number of government equity holdings, assets and services for privatization, or at least for increased commercialization.

Key actions included selling off the government’s remaining holdings in Cameco Corporation, Petro-Canada, and Canadian National Railway, while also commercializing Transport Canada’s air navigation system.

Firms that were privatized saw increasing profitability, efficiency and dividends, all of which allowed them to remain positive contributors to Canada through increased economic opportunities, higher profits and higher taxes, the study says.

As part of the overall program review, the federal government sought to reduce business subsidies (commonly referred to as “corporate welfare”) by 60 percent over three years.

One of the areas that was explicitly targeted was spending on regional development agencies (RDAs). As part of the 1995 budget, the Chrétien government initially planned to reduce spending on these agencies by 66.6 percent.

However, subsequent budgets showed the actual reduction in spending on RDAs was less than originally planned, and the federal government continues to fund these agencies today. The seven RDAs will require $1.5 billion in federal funding while employing 1,977 staff, according to the study.

Yet while funding for RDAs has persisted over the years, the same issues remain in that they are unlikely to generate the widespread economic benefits that they promise to deliver, the study says.

“Instead, as with business subsidies in general, they simply shift jobs and investments among jurisdictions or regions, rather than producing a net gain for the economy. As such, RDAs represent a key area of spending that the federal government could target as part of a larger spending review.”

Another area that was targeted in the 1995 budget, and which represents an even greater opportunity to find savings today, is the size of the federal public service, the Fraser Institute study says.

The number of federal bureaucrats has grown 43.1 percent under the Justin Trudeau government, from 257,034 in 2015 to 367,772 in 2024, according to the study.

This rate of increase is nearly three times the rate of population growth during that same period (15.2 percent). In other words, had the federal public service grown at the same rate as the overall population, there would be 71,715 fewer federal bureaucrats in 2024.

This increase has contributed to a 44.6-percent, or $17.4 billion, increase in the amount the federal government spends on personnel each year, from 2014/15 to 2022/23, the study notes.

Additionally, the government might also consider reviewing the compensation levels of federal bureaucrats, the study says.

Research shows that in 2021, government-sector workers (including federal, provincial and local levels) enjoyed an 8.5-percent wage premium over their private sector counterparts. This was after controlling for factors like gender, age, marital status, education and more.

When further accounting for union status, government sector workers still maintained a 5.5 percent wage premium.

The federal government should undertake a comprehensive review of spending in the 2025 budget, and in particular review the number of federal bureaucrats and their compensation, the study says.

The study concludes that the federal government should seek to draw lessons from the 1995 budget and apply them in the upcoming 2025 budget to begin addressing the fiscal problems currently facing Canada.

“Back in 1995, the comprehensive nature of spending reductions and reforms produced a smaller but more effective federal government, which should be the goal for today’s policymakers,” said study co-author Grady Munro, policy analyst at the Fraser Institute.

A separate Fraser Institute study by Fuss and Munro identifies eight federal programs where, the authors contend, spending either fails to achieve stated goals or “where government involvement is questionable.”

For example, the seven regional development agencies report vague objectives and results that make it difficult for government officials or parliamentarians to assess the efficacy of the spending, they said.

As for the Canada Infrastructure Bank first established in 2017, it has approved up to $13.2 billion in investments across 76 projects but only two projects have been completed, according to the study. These projects represent just $93.2 million (or 0.71 percent) of the total approved investments.

Fuss and Monro said the government would save $10.7 billion by eliminating spending in eight federal programs:

• $1.5 billion – Regional Development Agencies.
• $1.7 billion – Federal support for journalism.
• $587.6 million – Federal support for electric vehicle production and purchases.
• $340 million – Two Billion Trees program.
• $3.5 billion – Canada Infrastructure Bank.
• $2.4 billion – Strategic Innovation Fund.
• $202.3 million – Global Innovation Clusters.
• $530 million – Green Municipal Fund. Fraser Institute

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Ottawa provided businesses with $5.9 billion in innovation and growth support in 2022: Statistics Canada

The federal government in 2022 provided innovation and growth support valued at $5.9 billion to more than 39,000 businesses through 172 programs, according to a report by Statistics Canada.

While the majority of Business Innovation and Growth Support (BIGS) in 2022 was provided to small and medium-sized enterprises (96 percent of the total number of enterprises), defined as those with fewer than 500 employees, the amount of support provided to high-revenue businesses almost tripled from the previous year.

Enterprises with a revenue of $500 million or greater received around $736 million in support in 2022, an increase of 182 percent compared with $261 million in 2021.

In 2022, enterprises in the manufacturing sector (23 percent of the total value of all BIGS) received the most support, followed by enterprises in the professional, scientific and technical services (16 percent) and educational services (14 percent) sectors. StatsCan

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Business productivity in Canada shows promising growth: Statistics Canada

Business productivity in Canada grew at its fastest rate in a year in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to a report by Statistics Canada (StatsCan).

Output per hour worked increased from zero in the first quarter of 2024 to 0.6 per cent – 0.8 percent of real gross domestic product – in the fourth quarter, StatsCan said. It was the largest gain in a year and produced the first annual increase since 2020. 

It was the fifth consecutive quarter of labour productivity growth, going back to the fourth quarter of 2023.

Businesses increased the rate of their output while working fewer hours compared with the third quarter of 2024, StatsCan said.

The growth in business productivity mirrored an increase in annual Gross Domestic Product of 2.6 percent in the fourth quarter of 2024, led by the biggest increase in household spending in more than two years.

Exports and residential and business investment also grew in the fourth quarter of 2024.

The improved business productivity indicates Canada’s economy has momentum, but it’s not yet sufficiently large or sustained to ease concerns about Canada’s productivity crisis. StatsCan

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Use of AI by foreign adversaries to target elections worldwide is growing: Communications Security Establishment Canada

Artificial intelligence technologies have become more powerful and accessible over the last two years and are being increasingly used by foreign adversaries to target elections worldwide – including in Canada, according to a report by the Communications Security Establishment Canada (CSE).

Foreign actors are using AI technologies to create and spread disinformation, harass politicians and enhance cyber espionage and malicious cyber activities, the report says.

Hostile foreign actors used AI to target 27 percent of elections, or 41 elections, worldwide held between 2023 and  2024, the CSE said.

Of 151 global elections between 2023 and 2024, there were 60 reported AI-generated synthetic disinformation campaigns and 34 known and likely cases of AI-enabled social botnets.

The report’s key findings are:

• Foreign actors, particularly those affiliated with Russia and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) are leveraging AI to sow division and distrust within democratic societies.
• Hostile foreign actors are using AI to flood the information environment with false information, including by enabling the creation of disinformation and of social botnets to spread it.
• Foreign actors are increasingly using generative AI to create and spread viral disinformation with the potential for greater impact as these methods evolve and become even more accessible.
• Cybercriminals and state-sponsored actors will likely use AI to enhance social engineering attacks against political figures and electoral institutions in the near future.
• Nation states, in particular the PRC, are undertaking massive data collection campaigns, collecting billions of data points on democratic politicians, public figures and citizens around the world. These nation states are using AI to analyze data faster than ever, further enhancing their ability to conduct targeted influence and espionage campaigns.
• AI is being used to create deepfake pornography targeting politicians and public figures, predominantly women and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

The PRC, Russia and Iran will very likely use AI tools to attempt to interfere with Canada’s 2025 federal election, including to support disinformation campaigns and hack-and-leak operations, the CSE said.

Additionally, cybercriminals may exploit election-related opportunities to conduct scams and fraud. Canadian politicians and political parties are at heightened risk of being targeted by cyber threat actors, particularly through phishing attempts.

“Despite these threats, we judge that it is very unlikely [roughly a 10 percent to 30 percent chance] that AI-enabled activities will fundamentally undermine the integrity of Canada's next general election,” the CSE said.

The CSE said its Get Cyber Safe campaign will continue to provide advice and guidance to all Canadians to help them stay safe online. CSE

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Global Affairs Canada tracking a new “Spamouflage” campaign targeting Canadian politicians and public figures

Global Affairs Canada continues to monitor a new “Spamouflage” campaign targeting several individuals based in Canada. The operation is a more extensive version of the campaign that the department reported in 2023.

“Spamouflage has been publicly reported over a period of several years by technology companies and threat intelligence experts who have connected the activity to the People’s Republic of China (PRC),” Global Affairs Canada said in a statement.

“Rapid Response Mechanism Canada has been able to attribute this new campaign, including the bots involved, to the PRC with high confidence.”

This new campaign employs various tactics to intimidate, belittle and harass individuals based in Canada who are critical of the PRC, including with the use of videos doctored through AI and the release of private information about targeted individuals without their consent (called “doxing”), Global Affairs Canada said.

This is the first known instance where a Spamouflage campaign used sexually explicit deepfake photos to target an individual in Canada.

The most prominent tactic used in the campaign has been to create fabricated (“deepfake”) videos using AI to generate a likeness of a real person, which is then used to promote false narratives. These AI generated videos, which are intended primarily to undermine the credibility of a real person, are posted on YouTube and TikTok.

“The deepfake videos make fabricated claims about the Prime Minister of Canada, as well as other Canadian politicians and public figures,” Global Affairs Canada said.

“Spamouflage bots then place these deepfakes on publicly visible social media accounts belonging to various departments and agencies of the Government of Canada, multiple media outlets and political figures, such as the Leader of the Official Opposition. On average, Spamouflage bots post between 100 and 200 deepfakes per day.”

Global Affairs Canada reached out to the victims of this new campaign and engaged with the relevant social media companies, which removed some of the content as it violated their policies and guidelines. New Spamouflage bots continue to be generated, however.

Global Affairs Canada said it also raised concerns directly with the Embassy of China to Canada.

“The Government of Canada will be taking additional steps to counter the operation, including re-engaging with social media companies.” Global Affairs Canada

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Women are still underrepresented in academia and still being paid less than men

Despite gains over the past several decades in women’s representation in Canada’s university sector, women are still underrepresented in academia and are being paid less than men, according to an analysis published in University Affairs.

Dr. Derek Messacar, an associate professor in the Department of Economics and the Faculty of Education at Memorial University and a senior research analyst in the social analysis and modelling division at Statistics Canada (StatsCan), looked at more than 50 years of data, based on detailed computations from StatsCan’s University and College Academic Staff  System dataset, from 1970 to 2022. 

Messacar found that the percentage of full-time faculty positions across all academic ranks held by women has increased from about 12 percent in 1970 to 42 per cent in 2022.

Most of these gains were realized during the 1990s and 2000s, which posted increases of eight percentage points per decade. By comparison, the percentage of full-time faculty positions held by women increased by one percent during the 1970s and by six percent since 2010. 

While the percentage of women has trended upwards over time, much of this gain can be attributed to a slowing of the recruitment of men rather than solely to an increase in the recruitment of women, Messacar said.

For example, an average of about 480 women and 2,070 men were hired each year during the 1970s, compared with about 590 women (+23 percent) and 1,000 men (−52 percent) during the 1990s.

“Only in the past few years has total recruitment returned to the historical average (about 2,000 per year) with roughly an equal distribution of men and women.”

Women have been slightly over-represented in full-time teaching faculty positions at a rank below assistant professor (55 percent to 57 percent) for the past two decades. This trend could potentially reflect, at least in part, a gender difference in the conversion of non-tenure-track teaching positions into tenure-track faculty positions, Messacar said.

Due to the increase in women among new hires over the past few years, the percentage of women at the rank of assistant professor finally reached parity a couple of years ago. 

At the higher ranks of associate and full professor, women remain significantly under-represented, Messacar said.

The percentage of women in these ranks was 42 percent and 32 percent in 2022, respectively. “A silver lining is that women’s representation in these tenured ranks have been increasing over time and may continue to increase as younger faculty move through promotion and tenure.”

Messacar also looked at women represented in administrative positions: dean; assistant, associate or vice-dean; chair; director or head; and assistant or associate to the chair, director or head.

The number, or frequency, of men who have administrative responsibilities has increased to about 3,315 in 2022, whereas the number of women who have administrative responsibilities reached 2,285 in 2022 – less than 70 percent as many as men. 

When it comes to salary, the unconditional gender pay gap (with no controls) has narrowed over time, from about $25,000 in the early 1970s to about $15,000 in 2022. This means the average salary of women faculty is about $15,000 less than that of men.

The conditional gender pay gap (controlling for determinants of pay that vary between men and women, such as increased salary with tenure) has also narrowed over time but remains well below zero.

In 2022, women earned about $5,000 less on average compared to their male counterparts in the same positions and at the same institutions as them. 

For new hires, women earn about $5,000 or less than their male counterparts. 

Women also are more likely to work in low-paying departments compared with men. This finding holds for all faculty and new hires. For example, in 2022 women represented 55 percent of all faculty in low-paying departments compared with 38 percent in high-paying departments. 

These gender disparities may continue to improve gradually over time as younger faculty members move through promotion and tenure, Messacar said.

“However, shorter-term solutions may also exist, such as implementing gender pay equity adjustments as some institutions have done and reducing pay disparities across departments.” University Affairs

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Federal government offers no explanation for choosing a lower emissions-reduction target than that recommended by its advisory group

The Government of Canada has already taken “significant steps” to implement its Net-Zero Advisory Body’s (NZAB) recommendations made in its report, says Steven Guilbeault, minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada.

But in an official response to the NZAB’s report, Guilbeault didn’t say why the government chose to set a lower emissions target than that recommended by the NZAB.

He cited several steps that the government has taken to implement the NZAB’s recommendations, including:

• publishing Canada’s final Clean Electricity Regulations.
• publishing draft regulations to put a cap on oil and gas emissions.
• releasing Canada’s “ambitious and achievable” 2035 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target.
• helping families lower their monthly energy bills while driving down emissions from buildings and transportation.
• delivering historic investments in Indigenous-led climate projects.

Guilbeault noted that in 2015, Canada’s emissions were projected to increase by nine percent by 2030 when compared with 2005 levels.

“Today, emissions are now the lowest they have been in 27 years, excluding the pandemic years, and significantly lower than pre-pandemic levels,” he said. Between 2005 and 2022, the emissions intensity for the Canadian economy fell by 30 percent.

In its report, the NZAB recommended that Canada adopt a carbon budget and set a target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 50 percent to 55 percent below 2005 levels, by 2035.

But the government said it needed to further explore adopting a carbon budget. Also, it set a lower target to reduce GHG emissions by 45 percent to 55 percent below 2005 levels by 2035.

Guilbeault said that in line with the government’s legislated obligations under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Ottawa will continue to consider the NZAB’s expert advice to make progress under Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan and develop the policies and investments needed “to achieve a strong, net-zero economy by 2050.” Environment and Climate Change Canada

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Federal government is taking action on harmful “forever chemicals”

The Government of Canada is taking additional steps to address the potential harm of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals,” commonly found in everyday products, including clothing, electronics, food packaging and cosmetics.

PFAS are a class of more than 15,000 extremely persistent human-made substances. They are used in a wide range of products for their waterproofing, oil resistance or non-stick properties.

The government published the State of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Report, which concluded that the class of PFAS, excluding fluoropolymers, is harmful to human health and the environment.

Exposure to PFAS can adversely affect multiple organs and systems including the liver, kidneys, thyroid, immune system, nervous system, metabolism and body weight, and reproduction and development.

In the environment, PFAS are harmful to wildlife and can build up in living organisms. These substances do not break down easily and remain in the environment for long periods of time.

To address these risks, the federal government is taking steps to propose the addition of the class of PFAS, excluding fluoropolymers, to Part 2 of Schedule 1 to the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA).

Through a step-by-step approach, the government will prioritize the protection of health and the environment while considering factors such as the availability of alternatives.

Phase 1, starting in 2025, will address PFAS in firefighting foams to better protect firefighters and the environment.

Phase 2 will focus on limiting exposure to PFAS in products that are not needed for the protection of human health, safety or the environment. This will include products like cosmetics, food packaging materials, and textiles.

Beginning in 2025, the government will also require manufacturing and other facilities to report the use of PFAS to the National Pollutant Release Inventory. This data will improve understanding of how PFAS are used in Canada, help evaluate possible industrial PFAS contamination, and support efforts to reduce environmental and human exposure to harmful substances.

Canadians are invited to comment on the Risk Management Approach and the Proposed Order to add the class of PFAS, excluding fluoropolymers, to Part 2 of Schedule 1 to CEPA, until May 7, 2025. Environment and Climate Change Canada

THE GRAPEVINE – News about people, institutions and communities

University of Alberta computing science professor Richard Sutton, chief scientific advisor at Amii (Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute) and a Canada CIFAR AI Chair, was honoured as co-recipient of the 2024 Association for Computing Machinery A.M. Turing Award, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize in computing.” Sutton, one of the founders of modern computational reinforcement learning, has been instrumental in transforming Alberta into a world-renowned artificial intelligence hub since arriving at U of A nearly 25 years ago. He was honoured alongside longtime collaborator Andrew Barto, professor emeritus of computer science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. They co-authored the 1998 book Reinforcement Learning: An Introduction, which continues to be one of the pivotal texts in the field. The award, named for British mathematician Alan M. Turing, carries a US$1-million prize funded by Google. Reinforcement learning, a branch of artificial intelligence, has countless applications, from global supply chain optimization to improving the reasoning capabilities of ever-popular chatbots. U of A

Calgary-based The51, a venture firm and financial platform backing women-led innovation, announced the appointment of Lauren Robinson as fund managing partner to lead the next phase of growth for The51's funds. She will join Shelley Kuipers and Judy Fairburn as general partners. Robinson’s role will include expanding The51's venture funds, managing capital deployment, deepening limited partner engagement, and driving financial returns. She joins The51 after co-founding Highline Beta's pre-seed fund, which invests in technology startups solving enterprise challenges. With two decades of experience in venture capital, capital markets and early-stage company building, Robinson brings deep expertise in scaling high-growth startups, expanding access to capital, and a strong commitment to advancing women entrepreneurs and investors, The51 said. The51

Mississauga, Ont.-based goEasy Ltd. appointed Dan Rees as CEO. GoEasy is a consumer lender focused on delivering a full suite of financial services to Canadians with near- to non-prime credit. Rees joins GoEasy following a 25-year career with Scotiabank where he held progressively senior executive roles, including group head of Canadian banking from 2019 to 2024. goEasy

The Government of Canada appointed Mark Fisher as president of the recently launched Canada Water Agency, reporting to the minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada. Fisher brings extensive experience in addressing national, regional and Canada-U.S. freshwater management and stewardship challenges, having served as the president and CEO of the Council of the Great Lakes Region since 2014. He takes over from interim president Daniel Wolfish. Canada Water Agency

Anie Perrault has assumed the duties of acting chairperson of the Patented Medicine Prices Review Board (PMPRB), after Thomas Digby stepped down from the role to pursue other opportunities. Perrault, a lawyer by training with more than 30 years of professional experience in the public and private sectors, was appointed vice-chairperson of the board in August 2023. She will continue to be supported by current board members as the PMPRB works to finalize its new guidelines as planned. PMPRB

Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (HICC) appointed Macky Tall as chair of the board of directors for the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) for a four-year term. Tall is widely recognized as one of Canada's foremost infrastructure investors, bringing unparalleled expertise across various sectors, including transportation, energy, water and digital infrastructure, HICC said. Currently a senior advisor at the Carlyle Group, Tall also holds key positions on several distinguished boards. HICC

BDC Capital, the venture arm of the Business Development Bank of Canada, appointed Jason Baibokas as the managing director of its $100-million Black Entrepreneurs Fund. BDC Capital announced the appointment in a LinkedIn post, saying Baibokas brings more than 25 years of experience in capital markets, business advisory and entrepreneurial growth. BDC Capital said he will lead the development and execution of a strategic investment strategy to deploy $100 million in equity capital into Black-led businesses across Canada. BDC Capital LinkedIn post

Université Laval received a $20-million donation from Quebecor toward the Carrefour international Brian-Mulroney Major Campaign. This funding – the largest donation ever received by the university – will support the development of the Sphère Québecor program, which will enhance training and research in international studies, entrepreneurship, business and communications. It will also establish an environmental, social and governance investment fund and create scholarships for ULaval’s international business development missions. ULaval will recognize the gift by naming the building adjacent to the future Carrefour international Brian Mulroney centre in honour of Quebecor founder Pierre Péladeau. Québecor Média Inc.

Collège de Bois-de-Boulogne in Montreal will expand its campus with a new pavilion, thanks to a $14.5-million investment from the Government of Québec. The facility will host the college’s health learning and innovation centre, which will contain a clinical learning environment with simulation spaces for nursing training, as well as dedicated learning spaces for continuing education in management and administration. It will also be used for efforts focused on promoting and learning French. Collège de Bois-de-Boulogne

Huron University in London, Ont. received a $10-milion gift from Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited, the largest donation in the university's history. Huron will use the gift to establish the Fairfax Centre for Free Enterprise, dedicated to the study and promotion of free enterprise. The centre will include academic components, internships, guest speakers and business-networking opportunities for students. The centre is expected to open in September 2025. Huron says that the centre will be the first of its kind at a Canadian university. Huron University

Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Engineering received $1.05 million from the Johnson Scholarship Foundation to increase access to engineering education for equity-deserving groups. This funding will bolster the faculty’s Inclusive Pathways to Engineering Careers Program, which provides scholarships and wraparound supports for Indigenous and African Nova Scotian and Black students at Dalhousie. Dalhousie University

The Université Laval will launch new programs in agroecology and archaeology this year. The university will offer a professional master’s degree in agroecology, starting this fall. Students who enroll in this two-year program will study the relationship between agriculture, ecology and society. ULaval will also introduce a nine-credit microprogram in archaeology for First Nations students. This program is designed to meet the needs of Indigenous communities that are looking for university archaeology training. The first cohort will spend three weeks in an Innu community, three weeks completing laboratory training at ULaval, and three weeks participating in internships. ULaval (Agroecology), ULaval (Artcheology)

Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Kamloops launched a diploma in Computer Network and Cybersecurity, which provides hands-on training using practical and lab-based curriculum. Upon completion, graduates can transition into TRU’s Bachelor of Computing Science degree program. Olds College of Agriculture and Technology in Olds, Alta. unveiled its updated Environmental Science & Technology diploma program, which includes a new name and revised curriculum. TRU, Olds College

Conestoga College in Kitchener launched a three-year Bachelor of Data Analytics that will prepare students to work with data with practical experience. McMaster University launched a minor in Nuclear Studies and Society with three specializations: Nuclear Engineering, Nuclear Applications in Applied and Medical Science, and a general track. Students in the program will be prepared for careers in the nuclear sector. Conestoga College, McMaster University

Centennial College in Toronto, St. Lawrence College in Kingston, Ont., and the University of Windsor released further details on operational changes that are intended to help offset financial deficits. Centennial will be merging two of its campuses: All Story Arts Centre campus programming, staff and students will be moved to the college’s Progress Campus in Scarborough by summer 2026. St. Lawrence College, which will be suspending 55 program intakes beginning this spring, will continue its Brockville and Cornwall locations as learning centres to offer facilities such as on-campus residences, learning spaces and food services. Changes will be made to functions and resources such as bookstore products, library spaces and student career and accessibility services. The University of Windsor announced further workforce changes – a net loss of 27 CUPE Local 1393 positions – and efforts to streamline services and consolidate administrative support. CBC News (Centennial College), St. Lawrence College, Windsor Star

Ottawa-based Algonquin College's board of governors voted unanimously to cancel 41 programs and close the Perth Campus. The 41 programs include 31 active programs (16 percent of the college’s 235 programs) that will be suspended with intent to cancel, as well as six active and four dormant programs that will be cancelled. “Nothing in the history of the college compares to this extraordinary and unprecedented context against which we are working decisively and with a sense of urgency,” said Claude Brulé, president of Algonquin College. Brulé warned that "without intervention," the college will incur a budget deficit of at least $60 million in 2025-2026 and $93 million by 2026-2027. CBC News

Confederation College in Thunder Bay, Ont. and Georgian College in Barrie, Ont. have each made changes to their programming in response to the impacts of the federal government’s international student cap. Confederation suspended admissions for six programs in the winter term and will pause admissions for four programs in the spring/summer term. Georgian suspended some program intakes and reduced the number of sections in other programs to address lower international enrolment. Georgian also removed 86 roles through layoffs, voluntary retirements and vacancy closures, bringing the total number of impacted full-time positions to 229. TB Newswatch (Confederation College), CTV News (Georgian College)

Fanshawe College in London, Ont. and Selkirk College in Castlegar, B.C. initiated staffing adjustments and program changes to address their respective projected deficits. Fanshawe, which has 64 percent fewer international students and forecasted a $35-million deficit in early February, implemented a hiring freeze and announced that an early retirement program will be unveiled in March. Program and staff cuts will be announced after the college receives a forthcoming review to identify the programs that qualify for post-graduate work permits. Selkirk announced it would reduce its overall expenses by $9 million. Grand Forks Gazette reported that the college laid off or has not renewed contracts for eight people. The college is also suspending intakes for several programs. CBC News (Fanshawe College), Selkirk College

Olds College of Agriculture & Technology in Olds, Alta. announced it is suspending intake for multiple programs due to the challenges posed by declining provincial funding and federal policy changes that significantly reduced international student enrolment. The suspensions include programs in the areas of Agriculture Technology Integration, Business Management, Craft Beverage & Brewery Operations, and Hospitality & Tourism Management. The college projects an approximate $5.1-million loss of student tuition revenue for its 2025-26 budget. Olds College

Okanagan College in Kelowna, B.C. plans to reduce its workforce as it contends with declining enrolment. The college is offering early retirement incentives and job-sharing opportunities, as well as opting not to fill existing vacancies as measures to offset potential layoffs. The college is also reviewing its programs. Neil Fassina, president of Okanagan College, said  current students will not experience any changes to their classes or their ability to complete their programs. Okanagan College

The Government of Québec is capping international student applications for the 2025-26 academic year. Quebec will accept a maximum of 63,299 applications for university-level programs, 32,261 applications for vocational training programs, and 29,200 applications for college-level programs. Initially proposed in October, these measures are part of a broader provincial strategy to regulate temporary immigration by reducing applications for vocational and college programs while stabilizing university admissions. In an online statement, the government acknowledged the beneficial contributions of international students to the region but noted that the recent growth in international student recruitment has presented challenges. Govt. of Quebec

Several organizations have called on the Government of Canada to adjust its policies to better support postsecondary institutions and international students. Christopher Worsick, chair of the Economics Department at Carleton University and a fellow at the C.D. Howe Institute, outlined in an op-ed in The Globe and Mail a plan that Canada could use to bolster its economy by welcoming international students in greater numbers. “With U.S. tariffs, the situation has changed, and we should maximize the economic benefits we get from international postsecondary students, while minimizing the drawbacks,” he wrote. In the short term, Canada should prioritize international university students over their college counterparts, since international university students pay higher tuition, Worsick argued. In an article in Policy Options, Pari Johnston, president and CEO of Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) highlighted the negative impacts of Canada’s international student policy changes and outlined four steps that Canada could take to “course correct.” This includes putting a pause on any further reforms to allow the system to stabilize and protecting future training and research capacity through stable and sustained system-level funding to public postsecondary institutions. Hannah Hunter, Wasiimah Joomun, and Ahmad Baker, of the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA), in an article in Policy Options, called on the federal government to change its immigration evaluation system to better recognize and reward international students for attaining a Canadian education. Policy Options (CICan), Policy Options (CASA)

University of Guelph (U of G) researchers have developed a slime-like material that produces electricity when compressed. When the team studied their prototype using the Canadian Light Source at the University of Saskatchewan, they discovered the material has an array of potential applications. If installed in floors, it could produce clean energy when people walk on it. If incorporated into a shoe insole, it could be used to analyze a person’s gait. In theory, said lead researcher Erica Pensini, the team’s material could even be used as the basis for a synthetic skin to train robots to know how much pressure to use when checking the pulse of a patient. Pensini, an associate professor at U of G, and her colleagues found that the “slime” could form different structures at the microscopic level so that it either arranged itself like a sponge, formed layers like a lasagna, or took on a hexagonal form. This property could offer an opportunity for the targeted delivery of medicine within the body, Pensini said. The team’s prototype is composed of natural materials that are highly compatible with the body. It is 90 percent water plus oleic acid (found in olive oil) and amino acids (the building blocks of protein in the body). Canadian Light Source

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