TORONTO, ON, April 17, 2025 – The second and final day of DiscoveryX concluded with an inspiring showcase of Ontario’s innovation economy—featuring global thought leaders, next-gen technologies, and the province’s top startups forging connections that will drive the future of industry.

“DiscoveryX proves what’s possible when Ontario’s brightest innovators, boldest entrepreneurs, and most dedicated partners come together,” said Claudia Krywiak, President and CEO of the Ontario Centre of Innovation. “This event is a catalyst—for collaboration, for investment, and for global impact.”

Building on the success of Day 1, the final day of DiscoveryX featured high-impact sessions on topics ranging from quantum computing and advanced AI to clean energy and talent development—highlighting the role of innovation in creating solutions for today’s most pressing challenges.

“DiscoveryX once again put on a fantastic conference and trade show. Events like these are essential for the future of tech innovation here in Ontario and around the globe,” said Nina Tangri MPP for Mississauga Streetsville & Ontario’s Associate Minister of Small Business. “Our government understands critical technologies and their impact on key sectors. We will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with our job creators and innovators as they help advance Ontario.”

Day 2 highlights included:

· A powerful closing keynote from world renowned Futurist Amy Webb, emphasizing the future of Where Technology is headed next.

· The announcement of over $40,000 in prize money to the winners of both the Ignite Innovation Pitch Competition award (Cove Neuroscience, University of Toronto), sponsored by Interac; and the Where’s Next Pitch Competition award (LenSense Inc. Queen’s University), sponsored by Intellectual Property Ontario (IPON), recognizing excellence in homegrown health innovation.

· Over 15 panels focused on global market entry, inclusive innovation, and the future of entrepreneurship.

· Over 300 Ask-An-Investor meetings on the show floor, with investors, researchers, and companies building new partnerships across sectors.

As DiscoveryX comes to a close, OCI and its partners remain focused on turning today’s ideas into tomorrow’s industries—with support for innovators at every stage of their journey.

The future of innovation is here—and it’s made in Ontario.

For more information and to secure your attendance for next year, visit the DiscoveryX website or the Ontario Centre of Innovation

Media Contact: Alicia Pereira, apereira@oc-innovation.ca

TORONTO, ON, April 16, 2025 – DiscoveryX, Ontario’s premier innovation showcase, launched today with a powerful lineup of speakers, game-changing technologies, and the brightest minds in tech coming together to spotlight the future of innovation.

“One of Ontario’s greatest strengths is our ability to bring government, academia, and industry together to turn ground-breaking ideas into reality,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “DiscoveryX is an opportunity to showcase our province’s brightest innovators and demonstrates that Ontario is not just participating in the global innovation landscape but leading it. With over 75,000 annual STEM graduates and a thriving innovation ecosystem, Ontario is setting the standard for industries around the world.”

Hosted by the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), Day 1 of DiscoveryX featured standing-room-only keynote sessions, interactive exhibits, and hundreds of startups from across the province demonstrating how Ontario is shaping the next generation of solutions in life sciences, cleantech, advanced manufacturing, quantum, and more.

“This is where Ontario’s innovators shine,” said Claudia Krywiak, President and CEO of OCI. “DiscoveryX is more than an event—it’s a launchpad for companies, a hub for collaboration, and a reminder of just how powerful our ecosystem can be when we work together.”

Highlights from Day 1 included:

· A keynote fireside chat with Godfather of AI, Dr. Geoffrey Hinton and colleague Jordan Jacobs, sharing bold insights on where AI is going next;
· A keynote from NVIDIA’s Aaron Erickson;
· Breakthrough demos from startups in health innovation, automotive, cleantech and AI;
· A full lineup of panels featuring thought leaders from government, industry, and academia;
· The opening of the DiscoveryX’s Explore NeXt Innovation area, showcasing over 11 companies showing attendees “where next in technology”.

Regional Innovation Centres (RICs) from across the province were also welcomed and celebrated for their critical role in supporting early-stage businesses and fueling growth in every region of Ontario. A roundtable on Agri-tech was hosted but some of the brightest names in the industry.

With energy high and momentum building, Day 1 set the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable DiscoveryX experience.

Stay tuned for Day 2—featuring even more innovation, inspiration, and connection. For more information, visit https://www.discoveryxconference.ca/home or https://www.oc-innovation.ca/

Media Contact: Alicia Pereira, apereira@oc-innovation.ca

Toronto, ON – April 16, 2025 – Today, at the opening of Ontario’s largest innovation and technology trade show, DiscoveryX, Claudia Krywiak, President and CEO of The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) announced the launch of 10 new Technology Development Sites (Dev Sites) under the Critical Industrial Technologies (CIT) initiative.  

“With over 85,000 tech professionals, Ontario stands at the forefront of global innovation and technology,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “By designating 10 new Technology Development Sites, we’re giving small and medium-sized businesses across the province the support they need to boost their competitiveness, speed up the delivery of made-in-Ontario solutions, and create quality jobs that will drive economic growth throughout Ontario.” 

CIT is Ontario’s flagship initiative driving the adoption, commercialization and talent development of Critical Technologies in four key sectors- Mining, Construction, Agri-food and Advanced Manufacturing. 

“These ten Technology Development Sites are an integral part of Ontario’s innovation ecosystem,” said Claudia Krywiak, President and CEO, Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI). “Through the Critical Industrial Technologies initiative, we are making top-tier testing facilities accessible to SMEs across the province, helping them accelerate commercialization and develop tomorrow’s technologies right here in Ontario.” 

These Sites form a cross-provincial CIT network of Critical Technology and sectoral capabilities providing Ontario small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with real-world testing environments to develop, test, and showcase critical technology products and services, accelerating their path to market and strengthening the province’s position as a leader in technological innovation and Critical Technology adoption. 

“Ontario’s small businesses are the backbone of our economy, with roughly 500,000 businesses that employ more than 2.5 million workers across our province,” said Nina Tangri MPP for Mississauga Streetsville & Ontario’s Associate Minister of Small Business. “These new development sites will be instrumental in helping innovators bring new technology to life and create more jobs and businesses across our province. Ontario’s entrepreneurs in tech show us day in and day out, what it means to be dedicated, think big, and innovate.” 

“As Ontario prepares to lead a rapidly evolving global industrial economy, it is crucial to build a connected, province-wide network that fuels the development, testing, and adoption of critical technologies,” said Raed Kadri, Vice-President, Strategic Initiatives and Business Development, OCI and Head of OVIN. “From robotics and AI to cybersecurity and sustainable construction, the new Technology Development Sites under the Critical Industrial Technologies initiative will provide Ontario companies the competitive edge they need to transform the mining, construction, agri-food, and advanced manufacturing sectors and fuel a more resilient economy.” 

Overview of the Technology Development Sites:

1. Cambrian College Centre for Smart Mining – Provides SMEs access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the MacLean Engineering Research and Training Facility, and expertise to enhance automation, robotics, and digital transformation in mining operations. ““Legacy industries like mining have long struggled to effectively and efficiently adopt the latest technologies. The Centre for Smart Mining was founded to help facilitate this process. The Critical

Industrial Technologies program has provided the centre the resources to help firms commercialize new technologies and the connectivity to Ontario’s most innovative tech companies. These critical technologies are essential for the mining sector’s continued competitiveness globally.”—Stephen Gravel, Manager for Centre for Smart Mining at Cambrian College

2. NORCAT Centre – Supports SMEs in developing and testing emerging mining technologies, offering access to underground test beds and commercialization support. “The NORCAT Underground Centre provides a unique operating environment where companies can develop, test, and demonstrate emerging technologies in an underground operating mine. This ability to de-risk and validate solutions in a practical setting is what sets us—and the innovators we support—apart. Supported by the expertise and guidance of the Ontario Centre of Innovation, we’re helping companies expedite the pathway from concept to commercialization with confidence, credibility, and impact.” —Don Duval, CEO, NORCAT

3. Vineland Research and Innovation Centre – Helps SMEs in the agri-food sector innovate and commercialize solutions in horticultural and agricultural technologies. ” “Vineland is proud to advance horticulture innovation through the OCI Critical Technologies Initiative. By leveraging our infrastructure, expertise, and sector engagement, we’re helping Ontario-based SMEs integrate critical technologies like AI and robotics to boost efficiency, quality, and sustainability. Our Technology Development Site supports product development, testing, and commercialization, and our upcoming Demonstration Days will help accelerate tech adoption across the agri-food sector.” –Vineland Research and Innovation Centre”

4. Centre for Meat Innovation & Technology – Provides SMEs in the food processing sector with advanced facilities and expertise to enhance meat processing innovation and sustainability. “We are thrilled to partner with the Ontario Centre of Innovation and be part of the Critical Industrial Technologies initiative. Robotics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity are not just buzzwords—they are essential tools for the future of meat processing in Ontario. This partnership allows us to connect with innovative Ontario-based companies and demonstrate how their cutting-edge technologies can help modernize our sector, enhance competitiveness, and drive sustainable growth for years to come.” –Franco Naccarato, Executive Director at Meat & Poultry Ontario

5. Evergreen Brick Works – Supports SMEs working on sustainable urban innovation, construction, and climate-focused infrastructure solutions. ““A healthy and sustainable future for our communities requires new ways of thinking about the places we share. Through the Centre for Better Public Spaces and our partnership with the Ontario Centre of Innovation, Evergreen will welcome ideas in climate-ready design and construction to be tested and brought to life. We recognize the value in bringing diverse people together that might not otherwise find each other from across sectors and community, to seed new approaches and shape the public spaces of tomorrow.” –Jennifer Angel, CEO, Evergreen Brick Works”

6. McMaster University – Offers SMEs access to a premier research and development hub for construction, advanced manufacturing, and cleantech innovations through the McMaster Innovation Park and McMaster Manufacturing Research Institute. “McMaster University is proud to join OCI’s CIT initiative, building on our strong track record of advancing technology and collaborating with Ontario SMEs. Through the MMRI (Advanced Manufacturing Development Site) and MIP (Construction Development Site), we’re excited to support manufacturers and builders with everything from prototyping to testing in real-world settings.”— Stephen Veldhuis (MMRI) & Gay Yuyitung (MIP)

7. University of Waterloo RoboHub – Offers SMEs access to cutting-edge robotics technology and research collaboration with the pre-commercial Rogers 5G testbed to advance robotics and automation applications. “This initiative will open up Ontario commercialization opportunities as innovators can build solutions using next-generation networking and robotics. As home to Canada’s largest and most active robotics and automation research group, the University of Waterloo is uniquely positioned to drive innovation in this space. In collaboration with Rogers Communications, the RoboHub will support SMEs through expert knowledge and consultation towards integrating 5G technology with advanced sensing, mobile robotics, and human-robot collaboration. –William Melek, Professor, University Research Chair, and RoboHub Director

8. uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range – Provides a world-class cybersecurity testing environment for SMEs to assess, improve, and validate their cybersecurity resilience. ““Through our strategic partnership with IBM Canada and the Ontario Centre of Innovation, we are not only advancing cybersecurity capabilities but also empowering Canadian businesses to stay ahead of emerging threats in an increasingly complex digital landscape. Over the next 24 months, we aim to support 30 SMEs through our state-of-the-art uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range. Participating SMEs will have access to a comprehensive catalogue of tailored service offerings and will engage in immersive cybersecurity simulations as part of their experience.” –Guy-Vincent Jourdan, co-Director, uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range

9. ventureLAB – Helps SMEs scale their AI-enabled technologies with high-performance compute, technical advisory, and advanced AI feature development. “This bold initiative strengthens Ontario’s position at the forefront of AI and innovation. By expanding our computing infrastructure, we’re not just investing in technology, we’re empowering the startups and small businesses that are shaping the future of AI right here at home. It’s about equipping Ontario’s innovators with the tools they need to secure, affordable, and built to scale,” said Sep Assadian, VP of Founder Services at ventureLAB. “We are also advancing Canada’s priorities around data sovereignty, sustainability, and homegrown development. This is about more than infrastructure, it’s about creating long-term economic value and ensuring Canada has a strong, independent voice in the global tech landscape.” – Sep Assadian, VP of Founder Services at ventureLAB

10. Artificial Intelligence for Advanced Manufacturing (AI4AM) – Supports SMEs in energy, bio-industrial, and advanced manufacturing sectors with applied research expertise and cutting-edge facilities. “As a recognized leader in applied research and innovation, Lambton College is proud to contribute to the CIT network and Ontario’s vision of technology-driven economic growth,” said Dr. Mehdi Sheikhzadeh, Senior Vice President, Research & Innovation at Lambton College. “Through AI4AM we are equipping SMEs with cutting-edge AI tools and expertise, we are enabling innovation that drives sustainability, resilience, and economic growth across the province.” –Dr. Mehdi Sheikhzadeh, Senior Vice President, Research & Innovation at Lambton College.

About the Ontario Centre of Innovation:

The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) brings industry, academic, and government partners together to invest in collaborative research and development, technology development, and commercialization opportunities that generate the highest return on innovation for Ontarians. As an ecosystem connector, OCI initiates unparalleled partnership opportunities, supports high-potential SMEs in commercializing groundbreaking research, and provides hands-on training and skills development opportunities for the next generation of highly skilled talent. (oc-innovation.ca)

About the Critical Industrial Technologies Initiative:

The Critical Industrial Technologies (CIT) initiative is a suite of programs available to Ontario SMEs to accelerate the commercialization and adoption of critical technologies—5G, AI, blockchain, cybersecurity, quantum computing, and robotics —across key sectors including Advanced Manufacturing, Agri-Food, Construction, and Mining. Focusing on talent development, product innovation, and sector transformation projects, CIT is building the future of industry in Ontario. For more information about the Critical Industrial Technologies initiative and the Technology Development Sites, please visit OCI’s CIT Program Page.

Media Contact: Alicia Pereira, Ontario Centre of Innovation, apereira@oc-innovation.ca

Toronto, Canada, April 11, 2025 – VITALL Intelligence, based in the rural Ontario town of Uxbridge, has developed a digital health service that consolidates a patient’s fragmented health information, providing access wherever and whenever it is needed. These advanced capabilities enable patients and their circle of care better management of their health at home, especially chronic patients, thereby making the hospital a last resort.

“Ontario’s life sciences and technology sectors are at the forefront of driving the advancement of next generation diagnostic and patient care solutions,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “Through the expansion of its Global Health System, VITALL Intelligence will be positioned to push the boundaries of innovation and further solidify our province’s reputation as a global leader in next-generation biomedical technologies.”

With over 50 million North Americans living with 3 or more chronic conditions, access to a comprehensive view of a patient’s health information is critical; especially combining the power of clinical and non-clinical real-time data together to improve health outcomes.

“The future of health care will rely on technology pathways that give greater insight on the wellbeing of patients wherever they are,” said Don Simmonds, Founding CEO of VITALL. “The heart of VITALL’s vision is a secure digital health utility that improves engagement with a patient’s own health information, making it more available, more meaningful and under their own control.”

The Company has been initially funded by two family office partners and is now joined by several new parties investing $625,000, including Halo Health, a Canadian physician investor group.

“VITALL Intelligence is proof that world-class innovation is thriving right here in Uxbridge,” said MPP Peter Bethlenfalvy, Member of Provincial Parliament for Pickering-Uxbridge. “This investment from the Ontario Centre of Innovation highlights the strength of Ontario’s growing tech and innovation sector, and I am pleased our local community is benefitting from this important opportunity.”

This investment was also matched by Ontario’s Life Sciences Innovation Fund (LSIF), led by the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) in the amount of $500,000 providing support as the Company expands.

“The Ontario Centre of Innovation is proud to support VITALL through Ontario’s Life Sciences Innovation Fund (LSIF), in transforming how health data is accessed, understood, and used to improve patient outcomes,” said Claudia Krywiak, President and CEO of the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI). “This is a powerful example of how Ontario-born innovation is helping shape the future of healthcare—supporting patients, reducing strain on hospitals, and enabling a more connected, proactive model of care across borders.”

VITALL’s secure FHIR* platform is SOC II certified and includes a strong patient consent framework, meeting privacy and regulatory compliance. The service provides both a patient centric application and a practitioner view for the visualization of three highly valuable, combined streams of data:

• the patient’s medical history extracted from any North American Health system or physician
• real time data ingested from a patient’s own wearables (noting 25% of North American adults now have a wearable device with 50% using them daily)
• measurements from a set of advanced, AI-driven tests taken by a patient using their own smartphone:
  • a 20 second face scan that measures blood pressure, SpO2, and other valuable data
  • a 10 second body scan that measures weight and body dimensions without a scale
  • a 15-minute digital health assessment measuring risks in six categories
  • a skin scan (to detect the risk of cancers)
  • a cough scan (to predict respiratory conditions)

VITALL’s business model is based on monthly subscriber charges between $20-100 per patient (depending on the level of service selected). Revenue growth has been 100% per year with early revenue derived from the insurance industry, where the Company efficiently extracts clinical records from North American health systems.

“HaloHealth is proud to support VITALL as we believe that future of healthcare will focus on preventive medicine leveraging personalized patient data,” said Luke Sheen, Executive Director of HaloHealth.

This investment and others through Ontario’s Life Sciences Innovation Fund exemplify how the province’s innovation ecosystem can drive transformative solutions, positioning Ontario as a leader in advancing technologies that improve lives globally.

“Ontario leads the world in healthcare technology innovation, guided by a strong commitment to transform lives and catalyze economic growth,” said Raed Kadri, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Business Development and Head of OVIN at the Ontario Centre of Innovation. “By accelerating the commercialization of Ontario-made digital health platforms, we are demonstrating technology leadership and unlocking new market opportunities for life-saving technologies. Together with the innovators behind them, we are proving that global health solutions can start right here in Ontario.”

VITALL is a very exciting company, originating in Ontario and aligned with the future direction of healthcare.

*Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) is a global standard for exchanging healthcare information electronically, enabling rapid and secure data sharing among different systems and organizations.

About VITALL Intelligence

VITALL makes patient health information meaningful by delivering it where and when it is needed most. A comprehensive health information platform gives patients and their circle of care access to unified health information and visualizations in a secure, user-friendly application. The VITALL service consolidates a patient’s clinical data, wearable data and at-home tests taken with a smartphone to provide real-time health journey insights without having to travel to a clinic or hospital.

For more information: https://www.vitall.com
For media inquiries, please contact:
April Hackner, ahackner@vitall.com

About HaloHealth

Founded in 2020, HaloHealth is a pan Canadian physician angel investment group composed of 400+ physician investor-advisors that connect, advise, and invest in early stage Canadian healthtech and life sciences ventures that are building the future of healthcare. HaloHealth has invested in 51 healthcare ventures with 5 exits to date and holds offices in Toronto and Calgary.

For more information: https://www.halohealth.ca
For media inquiries, please contact:
Matthew Cormier, mcormier@halohealth.ca

About the Ontario Centre of Innovation

The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) brings industry, academic, and government partners together to invest in collaborative R&D, technology development, and commercialization opportunities that generate the highest return on innovation for Ontarians.

As an ecosystem connector, OCI initiates unparalleled partnership opportunities, develops and manages successful industry-academic collaborations, supports high-potential SMEs in commercializing groundbreaking research, and provides hands-on training and skills development opportunities for the next generation of highly-skilled talent.

OCI drives economic growth and job creation through investments in the development, commercialization, and adoption of advanced technologies.

For more information: https://www.oc-innovation.ca
For media inquiries, please contact:
Alicia Pereira, apereira@oc-innovation.ca

Toronto, Canada, January 24, 2025 – Grey Matter Neurosciences, a neurotechnology company developing medical devices that facilitate therapeutic brain stimulation, is pleased to announce that it has licensed advanced focused ultrasound technology developed at Sunnybrook Research Institute. The technology holds transformative potential in the treatment of Alzheimer’s and other brain diseases and disorders.

The company concurrently secured $14 million in seed financing, with proceeds designated for the development of a unique ultrasound headset and its assessment in clinical trials in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. The financing was led by the Wittington Innovation Fund, with participation from Ontario’s Life Sciences Innovation Network (LSIF), led by the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) in the amount of $500,000, as well as Toronto Innovation Acceleration Partners and the Ontario Brain Institute.

The technology licensed by Grey Matter was invented by focused ultrasound pioneer Dr. Kullervo Hynynen and his team at Sunnybrook Research Institute. Focused ultrasound is unique among neuromodulation modalities in that it can be used to non-invasively perform precise stimulation anywhere in the brain, offering a promising therapeutic approach for enhancing cognition in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. The Sunnybrook technique is further differentiated by its ability to operate without the need for external image guidance, making it more accessible and enabling its application in non-hospital settings.

The $14 million equity financing will support advanced research on focused ultrasound neuromodulation, build a first-in-class product, and establish the safety and feasibility of the technology in a clinical trial enrolling patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Among other things, investigators will assess the ability of the transcranial focused-ultrasound device to sustainably improve cognitive performance, including memory and concentration.

“Generally speaking, there are no marketed therapies that can significantly and sustainably enhance cognitive function in individuals with dementia,” said Dr. Jeffrey Coull, Founder and CEO of Grey Matter. “I believe that our technology, which can reach the deepest recesses of the brain that control memory and learning, holds massive potential to boost cognition and, more generally, revolutionize how Alzheimer’s and other diseases of the brain are treated.”

“The Ontario Centre of Innovation is proud to support Grey Matter Neurosciences in advancing focused ultrasound technology, demonstrating the power of Ontario’s innovation ecosystem to transform Alzheimer’s treatment and elevate global health outcomes,” said Claudia Krywiak, President and CEO of the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI).

“Ontario is a global leader in life sciences and healthcare-related technologies with innovative companies like Grey Matter Neurosciences commercializing cutting-edge research to address critical health challenges,” said Raed Kadri, Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, Business Development and Head of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network at OCI. “This investment and others through Ontario’s Life Sciences Innovation Fund exemplify how our province’s innovation ecosystem can drive transformative solutions, positioning Ontario as a leader in advancing technologies that improve lives globally.”

About Grey Matter Neurosciences
Grey Matter Neurosciences is a Toronto-based neurotechnology company developing innovative medical devices and drug-device combinations to treat age-related diseases of the brain, including dementia. The company’s innovations are based on unique transcranial focused-ultrasound technology, which was invented by ultrasound pioneer Dr. Kullervo Hynynen at Sunnybrook Research Institute.

About the Ontario Centre of Innovation
The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) brings industry, academic, and government partners together to invest in collaborative R&D, technology development, and commercialization opportunities that generate the highest return on innovation for Ontarians.

As an ecosystem connector, OCI initiates unparalleled partnership opportunities, develops and manages successful industry-academic collaborations, supports high-potential SMEs in commercializing ground-breaking research, and provides hands-on training and skills development opportunities for the next generation of highly skilled talent.
OCI drives economic growth and job creation through investments in the development, commercialization, and adoption of advanced technologies. For more information: https://www.oc-innovation.ca

For media inquiries, please contact:
Alicia Pereira, apereira@oc-innovation.ca

Ottawa, ON—January 13, 2025 – A new collaboration between the University of Ottawa (uOttawa) and the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) is set to intensify  life sciences innovation in the capital region and beyond, building on Ottawa’s strengths as a premier life sciences research cluster. Through this partnership, uOttawa and OCI will foster the growth of made-in-Ontario life sciences technologies, accelerating the province’s momentum in boosting health-care competitiveness and economic resilience.

“Ontario has built a thriving life sciences ecosystem that encourages innovation and drives the development and commercialization of Ontario-made technologies,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “This collaboration between the University of Ottawa and the Ontario Center of Innovation is a prime example of how our province is harnessing our world-class STEM expertise and cutting-edge research to bring lifesaving ideas from lab to market.”

This partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration to drive innovation and impact, combining OCI’s proven ability to foster partnerships and uOttawa’s core strengths in biomedical, clinical, population health, and implementation science research, along with the University’s cutting-edge facilities and incubation-acceleration capabilities.

“Ottawa is more than a hub; it is the cornerstone of leadership and collaboration in life sciences innovation. Through our partnership with OCI, we are building on our strengths and proudly affirming our role as a recognized centre of expertise in this vital field,” said Julie St-Pierre, Interim Vice-President, Research and Innovation at the University of Ottawa. “This milestone is not merely a moment, but a crucial step forward in shaping the future of life sciences. Our vision is clear: we are setting new standards and paving the way for continued progress.”

As part of this collaboration, uOttawa and OCI will spearhead key business development and commercialization activities that will support Ontario’s bold vision to build a strong, competitive and resilient life sciences sector. These include engaging with small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Ottawa region to drive the development, adoption and commercialization of life sciences technologies. The activities will also involve developing collaboration events to bring together stakeholders in the innovation ecosystem, as well as representing and capitalizing on the region’s economic interests and opportunities. These efforts will be key to fostering industry-academic collaboration, creating a launchpad for next-generation life sciences innovation to thrive and scale in Ottawa and beyond.

To fuel growth in life sciences, the University of Ottawa is embarking on its largest construction project ever: the Advanced Medical Research Centre (AMRC). Set to open in 2026, the AMRC will be a game-changer, featuring some of the largest medical research facilities in Ontario. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, these state-of-the-art labs will empower top researchers, clinicians, and students to collaborate on groundbreaking treatments for critical illnesses, including neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and more. The Ottawa Health Innovation Hub will also be housed in the AMRC, focusing on translating promising research from lab benches to hospital bedsides. 

“Ontario is at the forefront of life sciences innovation, driving solutions that enhance health outcomes while creating significant economic opportunities,” said Claudia Krywiak, President and CEO of the Ontario Centre of Innovation. “This partnership with the University of Ottawa exemplifies how collaboration between academia and the innovation ecosystem can accelerate the development and commercialization of transformative technologies. By leveraging Ontario’s unparalleled research expertise and innovation networks, we are solidifying the province’s position as a global hub for life sciences and ensuring a thriving, resilient economy.”

With life sciences investments in Ontario now valued at over $5 billion, initiatives like this partnership are central to bolstering the province’s leadership in the sector. Since uOttawa and OCI are leaders in the innovation ecosystem, they will play a pivotal role in catalyzing innovation, fostering the development of a highly skilled workforce, and responding to the rapidly evolving needs of the health-care industry, thereby strengthening Ontario’s growing life sciences sector.

“Ontario is leading the way in global innovation, harnessing the transformative power of innovation in the life sciences sector to tackle critical health-care needs and seize new pathways for economic resilience. By championing groundbreaking research and fostering commercialization, we are not just meeting today’s needs, we are paving the way for a future built on sustainable growth and global competitiveness,” said Raed Kadri, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Business Development and head of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network at OCI. “As key enablers of Ontario’s thriving innovation ecosystem, our collaboration with the University of Ottawa highlights our commitment to unlocking Ontario’s vast potential. Together, we are propelling Ontario-made technologies to the forefront of the global life sciences landscape and shaping a more prosperous tomorrow.”  

About the University of Ottawa

Rooted in our bilingual and Francophone DNA, we are evolving at the intersection of many cultures. Located in Canada’s capital, a gateway to the world, we possess a unique platform to respond with energy, creativity, and scale to the global challenges and opportunities our world offers. With an active focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion, we will thrive like never before.

Already in this new millennium we have rocketed into the top 1% of the world’s 20,000+ universities with our research reputation. We have doubled our enrolment with students from across Canada, as well as from 147 countries around the globe, choosing uOttawa.

Our international influence is surging, with institutional partnerships in Europe, Asia and Africa multiplying rapidly – including membership in the U7 Alliance of world universities.

Meanwhile our research and programs in Cybertech, health, science, social justice, sustainability, education, and entrepreneurship continue to impact communities across Canada and around the globe every single day. Our scientists and academicians are driving progress in ethical AI and technology development, in clean growth and innovation and in action- oriented research on aging, active and healthy living, lifelong learning, and well-being, to name but a few.

At uOttawa we are driven by the urge to challenge the status quo, the will to make an impact, and the ambition to become a catalyst for change.

About the Ontario Centre of Innovation

The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) brings industry, academic and government partners together to invest in collaborative R&D, technology development, and commercialization opportunities that generate the highest return on innovation for Ontarians. As an ecosystem connector, OCI initiates unparalleled partnership opportunities, develops and manages successful industry-academic collaborations, supports high-potential SMEs in commercializing ground-breaking research, and provides hands-on training and skills development opportunities for the next generation of highly skilled talent. OCI drives economic growth and job creation through investments in the development, commercialization and adoption of advanced technologies. Learn more about the OCI

For media inquiries:

Contact the University of Ottawa

Contact the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI)

Ontario’s Critical Industrial Technologies (CIT) Initiative Boosts Province’s Technology Ecosystem through Partnership with University of Waterloo’s 5G-Enabled RoboHub

December 16, 2024

Toronto, Ontario – December 16, 2024 – The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) is proud to announce the expansion of Ontario’s Critical Industrial Technologies (CIT) initiative, an ambitious program designed to accelerate Ontario’s technology ecosystem. Through strategic partnerships with technical resources across the province like the University of Waterloo’s RoboHub, CIT provides Ontario-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with unprecedented access to advanced technology infrastructure, testing capabilities, and funding support to drive the commercialization of critical technology products.

“Academic-industry initiatives play a key role in driving the growth and development of Ontario’s innovation ecosystem,” said Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “Our government is proud to support this new partnership between the University of Waterloo and the Ontario Centre of Innovation as they continue to develop, drive and deploy cutting-edge critical technologies. By expanding access to specialized supports, SMEs will be positioned to push the boundaries of innovation and accelerate the deployment of next-generation products.” 

As part of the CIT program, OCI partners with technical sites, equipped with comprehensive technology infrastructure and testing environments, to bridge the gap between research and market-ready products. These sites enable SMEs to develop, test, and refine their innovations in real-world settings, positioning Ontario as a leader in cutting-edge technology.

“Ontario’s CIT initiative is integral to the Province’s efforts to support innovative SMEs in developing solutions that can compete on a global scale,” said Claudia Krywiak, President and CEO of OCI. “Our partnership with the University of Waterloo’s RoboHub, a world-class facility, exemplifies the collaborative spirit we’re fostering across Ontario’s tech sector. By providing access to leading-edge resources like 5G-enabled robotics, we’re ensuring that Ontario remains at the forefront of critical technologies that will define the future.”

One of CIT’s flagship TDS sites, the University of Waterloo’s RoboHub, is a leading-edge robotics research facility that doubles as Canada’s first 5G-enabled smart campus. In collaboration with Rogers Communications, RoboHub integrates robotics and next-generation 5G technology, providing SMEs with access to an advanced testing environment and state-of-the-art robotic systems.

“RoboHub was designed for multipurpose use as a state-of-the-art robotics research facility open for industry to collaborate with researchers on real world problems,” said Dr. Mary Wells, Dean of Engineering at University of Waterloo. “We are pleased to be approved by OCI as a Technology Demonstration Site and are committed to partnering with Rogers and SMEs to grow trust in technology and advance Ontario innovation through this initiative.”  

This partnership enables Ontario-based SMEs to push the boundaries of robotics and 5G, testing real-world applications in industries such as advanced manufacturing, agri-food, construction, and mining.

“Thank you to our partners at OCI for your significant support of the Rogers 5G Lab with RoboHub. RoboHub is a vital collaboration space for industry, researchers and students to advance the future of robotics research in Ontario with far-reaching societal benefits,” said Dr. Charmaine Dean, Vice-President of Research and International at University of Waterloo. “Importantly, this investment is another example of how our valued partnership with Rogers continues to grow and evolve.”

Through RoboHub, SMEs gain access to Rogers’ 5G spectrum bands, cutting-edge robotic systems, and technical expertise, allowing them to conduct comprehensive testing and develop new applications. Rogers Communications, a key partner in this initiative, enables access to experimental devices and offers guidance from technical experts to help SMEs refine their products. RoboHub’s combination of 5G capabilities and robotics offers SMEs a unique opportunity to innovate in sectors critical to Ontario’s economy, from smart cities to mobility solutions.

Located on Ontario’s first 5G smart campus, RoboHub offers an unparalleled environment for SMEs to explore applications for robotics and next-generation technology across industries. By supporting emerging technologies like millimeter wave (mmWave) testing and 3.5GHz small cells, RoboHub enables Ontario-based companies to tackle complex challenges in public safety, smart cities, manufacturing, and mobility.

“The CIT program and Technology Development Sites like RoboHub empower SMEs by providing them with the infrastructure and support to accelerate their technologies from concept to market,” said Philippa King, Assistant Vice-President of Strategic Programs at OCI. “By giving companies access to specialized robotics and high-speed 5G networks, we’re helping them not only innovate but also stay competitive in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.”

About the Ontario Centre of Innovation
The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) brings industry, academic, and government partners together to invest in collaborative R&D, technology development, and commercialization opportunities that generate the highest return on innovation for Ontarians.

As an ecosystem connector, OCI initiates unparalleled partnership opportunities, develops and manages successful industry-academic collaborations, supports high-potential SMEs in commercializing ground-breaking research, and provides hands-on training and skills development opportunities for the next generation of highly-skilled talent.

OCI drives economic growth and job creation through investments in the development, commercialization, and adoption of advanced technologies.

For more information: https://www.oc-innovation.ca

About the University of Waterloo
University of Waterloo is a leading global innovation hub that drives economic and social prosperity for Canada and the world. With more than 42,000 students, we are home to the world’s largest co-op education talent pipeline, to game-changing research and technology, and to an unmatched entrepreneurial culture. Together, these create partnerships and solutions to tackle today’s and tomorrow’s challenges. Find out more at: www.uwaterloo.ca

Media Contacts:
Alicia Pereira, apereira@oc-innovation.ca
Rebecca Elming, relming@uwaterloo.ca

Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), IBM Canada and uOttawa Announce a Strategic Partnership to pioneer innovation for Ontario small businesses

October 31, 2024

Toronto, ON (October 29) – The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) announces a strategic partnership with the University of Ottawa and IBM under Ontario’s Critical Industrial Technologies Program.

“As an internationally recognized tech hub, academic-industry partnerships play a key role in driving the growth and development of Ontario’s innovation ecosystem,” said Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “Our government is proud to support this new partnership between OCI, uOttawa and IBM as they continue to adopt, expand and commercialize innovative critical cybersecurity technologies.”

This partnership establishes the uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range as a Technology Development Site (TDS) to support Ontario based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to adopt, test, integrate and demonstrate cybersecurity capabilities into their technologies across four key sectors.

“This ground-breaking partnership between IBM, OCI and the University of Ottawa represents a major step forward in supporting Ontario’s SMEs as they navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of critical technologies,” said Claudia Krywiak, President and CEO of the Ontario Centre of Innovation. “By providing access to the uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range, we are empowering small and medium-sized enterprises to accelerate the development and commercialization of cyber-secure solutions in sectors like advanced manufacturing, agri-food, mining and construction. This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering innovation that will drive Ontario’s economy and position us as a global leader in technology adoption.”

Set to transform the landscape of critical technology adoption and commercialization, the uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range offers SMEs an opportunity to respond to real-world cyber-threats and test and build their cyber resiliency. Open to all SMEs involved in OCI’s Critical Industrial Technologies Development and Commercialization Program and Technology Access Program, this initiative will support SMEs in the growth and cyber secureness.

“This partnership between IBM Canada, OCI, and the University of Ottawa is a testament to the power of public-private collaboration in driving technological innovation and cyber resiliency. By investing in the uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range, we are not only supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in Ontario but also fostering a culture of innovation and security that will further position our province as a global leader in technology adoption,” said Deb Pimentel, IBM Canada President. “At IBM, we are committed to fostering a safer and more secure digital world. Our investment in the uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range is a testament to this commitment, as it provides a unique platform for businesses and government organizations to better prepare for and strengthen defences against real-world cyber threats. Through initiatives like this, we aim to empower organizations to accelerate the development and commercialization of transformative solutions in critical sectors, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and secure global digital landscape.”

The uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range was launched last fall and is IBM’s first Cyber Range partnership on a Canadian university campus.  IBM operates three other Cyber Ranges located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Washington DC, and Bangalore, India. 

“The uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range is the first of its kind in Canada and the only one in the world with an academic-industry partnership,” said Julie St Pierre, Interim VP, Research and Innovation. “Thanks to the unique combination of IBM’s technical expertise and uOttawa’s research excellence, we are providing real-world, immersive training that will help Ontario’s business community better address cybersecurity threats.”

The uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range offers highly realistic cyber response training exercises to help businesses and government organizations across the country better prepare for and strengthen defences against real-world cyber threats, including how to plan, respond, manage, contain, and remediate cyberattacks.

“The uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range offers SMEs a unique opportunity to understand their cybersecurity gaps, learn how to protect themselves and respond to real world cyber threats,” said Philippa King, Assistant Vice President, Strategic Programs. “The partnership also supports SMEs in adopting, integrating and testing cybersecurity solutions.  Through this partnership CIT is supporting Ontario’s companies to invest in their cyber modernization today setting the foundation for sustainable growth and success in the future and keeping Ontario open for business.”

This initiative underscores the unique positioning of the University of Ottawa as a leader in cybersecurity. As Canada’s sole facility of its kind, the uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range is set to redefine SME engagement with critical technologies, reinforcing Ontario’s commitment to fostering innovation.

“This funding from OCI marks a significant milestone in our mission to bolster SMEs in Ontario, equipping them with the tools and expertise necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving landscape of critical technologies,” stated Professor Guy-Vincent Jourdan, uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range Co-Director. “The uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range is a testament to our commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering innovation, and cybersecurity awareness and training.”

Media Contact
Alicia Pereira
apereira@oc-innovation.ca

About the Ontario Centre of Innovation
The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) brings industry, academic, and government partners together to invest in collaborative R&D, technology development, and commercialization opportunities that generate the highest return on innovation for Ontarians.

As an ecosystem connector, OCI initiates unparalleled partnership opportunities, develops, and manages successful industry-academic collaborations, supports high-potential SMEs in commercializing ground-breaking research, and provides hands-on training and skills development opportunities for the next generation of highly skilled talent.

OCI drives economic growth and job creation through investments in the development, commercialization, and adoption of advanced technologies.

For more information: https://www.oc-innovation.ca

Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) Celebrates Landmark Year of Achievements in Technology and Life Sciences at its Annual General Meeting

October 22, 2024

Toronto, ON, October 21 – The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) proudly reflected on an extraordinary year of innovation, growth, and leadership that has cemented Ontario’s position as a global leader in the automotive, technology, and life sciences sectors. This year marked significant milestones for both the organization and the province of Ontario’s innovation ecosystem, setting the foundation for future advancements that will shape Ontario and the world.

One of the highlights OCI showcased was Ontario’s significant progress in the life sciences sector with the establishment of the Ontario Life Sciences Innovation Fund (LSIF), further solidifying the province’s role as a leader in health sciences and biotechnology. Ontario’s LSIF was celebrated with Minister Vic Fedeli and award sponsor Kris Shah, of Baylis Medical Technologies presenting Dr. Fahima Osman, Co-Founder of MyJourney Health, with $25,000 and the prestigious honour as the ecosystem’s recipient of Ontario’s Life Sciences Innovator of the Year.

“Ontario is home to a thriving innovation ecosystem spanning many key industries, including the auto, life sciences, tech and advanced manufacturing sectors. The success and continued growth of this ecosystem would not be possible without Ontario’s highly-talented workforce, which is second to none,” said Vic Fedeli, Ontario Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “Through the Ontario Centre of Innovation, we continue to propel our innovation ecosystem to new heights by supporting our top-tier companies and talent as they develop and commercialize innovative products and solutions. Together, we’re building a stronger province and bolstering the next generation of Ontario-made success stories.”

Minister Fedeli and Amir Hoss, CEO of EAIGLE presented this year’s $5,000 Mind2Market Award to Pulsenics, highlighting the incredible talent emerging from Ontario’s innovation ecosystem.

OCI also highlighted its annual DiscoveryX, Ontario’s premier innovation conference, which brought together thought leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs to showcase cutting-edge developments and reaffirm Ontario’s status as a global innovation hub.

It was a year of record impact for Ontario’s economy. In partnership with the Government of Ontario, OCI continued to play a critical role in accelerating the development, commercialization, and adoption of advanced technologies, achieving the following outcomes in the fiscal year 2023-2024:

• 623 companies supported across Ontario
• Creation and retention of 5,542 jobs by OCI supported companies
• $362 million in incremental sales revenues by OCI supported companies
• $734 million in private sector follow-on investments in OCI supported companies, driving economic growth across the province.

“This year has been exceptional, laying the foundation for Ontario’s continued leadership in the automotive, technology, and life sciences sectors. Our achievements reflect the hard work of our team, our partners, and the strength of our innovation ecosystem,” said President and CEO Claudia Krywiak. “As we look to the future, we remain committed to being ‘Where Next Happens’ and continuing to push the boundaries of innovation.”

As Ontario’s innovation ecosystem continues to grow, OCI remains dedicated to its mission of fostering a prosperous and technologically advanced future for the province.

Media Contact
Alicia Pereira
apereira@oc-innovation.ca

About the Ontario Centre of Innovation
The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) brings industry, academic, and government partners together to invest in collaborative R&D, technology development, and commercialization opportunities that generate the highest return on innovation for Ontarians.

As an ecosystem connector, OCI initiates unparalleled partnership opportunities, develops, and manages successful industry-academic collaborations, supports high-potential SMEs in commercializing ground-breaking research, and provides hands-on training and skills development opportunities for the next generation of highly skilled talent.

OCI drives economic growth and job creation through investments in the development, commercialization, and adoption of advanced technologies.

For more information: https://www.oc-innovation.ca

Ontario Centre of Innovation and New Jersey Institute of technology partnering to advance AI, Life Sciences, Health Solutions, and Advanced Manufacturing Innovation

September 09, 2024

Building on longstanding cross-border ties between the Province of Ontario and the State of New Jersey, OCI and NJIT will foster innovation across key sectors to drive economic growth

Toronto, ON (September 9, 2024) – Today, the Province of Ontario and the State of New Jersey, through the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) and the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOU) announcing a new partnership built on a shared vision to foster innovation across key sectors and drive economic growth. With a focus on advancing innovation in AI, life sciences, digitizing health solutions, and advanced manufacturing, the partnership will strengthen both jurisdictions’ leadership in the global market.

“Having attracted tens of billions in technology investments over the last three and a half years, Ontario has proudly established itself as one of the largest and most sought-after tech hubs in North America,” said Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “As we look to the future and continue strengthening our economic ties with the U.S., this collaboration between OCI and NJIT will be pivotal in fostering conditions for growth and innovation, helping unlock the opportunities of tomorrow on both sides of the border.”

This new bilateral relationship between OCI and NJIT enhances the shared commitment of Ontario and New Jersey to support local startups and small- and medium-sized enterprises, attract investment, incubate talent, and cultivate engagement with the innovation ecosystem. These efforts will be driven by OCI’s pan-provincial approach to supporting the commercialization of innovative technologies and fostering connections with industry, government, and leading postsecondary institutions. Additionally, this partnership will be pivotal in expanding both jurisdictions’ capacity to supporting entrepreneurs in exploring cross-border expansion and building investment opportunities.

“We are thrilled to embark on this groundbreaking partnership with the New Jersey Institute of Technology, which will accelerate innovation across some of the most critical sectors shaping our future,” said Claudia Krywiak, President and CEO of the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI). “By combining Ontario’s robust innovation ecosystem with New Jersey’s cutting-edge technological expertise, we are not only driving economic growth but also creating new opportunities for startups, SMEs, and entrepreneurs on both sides of the border. This collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering cross-border innovation that will position Ontario and New Jersey as global leaders in AI, life sciences, health solutions, and advanced manufacturing.”

“This MOU with the Ontario Centre of Innovation represents a significant step forward in fostering cross-border collaboration in key areas of technology and innovation,” said Dr. Teik C. Lim, President of NJIT. “At NJIT, we are committed to driving economic growth through innovation and research. By partnering with OCI, we are not only supporting startups and SMEs in New Jersey but also creating a bridge for knowledge exchange and commercialization opportunities that will benefit both regions. Together, we will accelerate advancements in life sciences, AI, digital health, and advanced manufacturing, shaping a future of shared prosperity.”

As part of this collaboration, both regions will identify opportunities for networking, cooperation, and growth across common fields of interest. Key drivers of this partnership include sharing technological expertise and commercialization activities, facilitating investment discussions, co-hosting bilateral and multilateral meetings and events, and cross-promotion of initiatives.

“Ontario continues to be at the forefront of innovation and has established itself as a world leader in commercializing new cutting-edge technologies from AI to MedTech,” said Raed Kadri, Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, Business Development and Head of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) at OCI. Building on our long tradition of cross-border collaboration with the U.S., this partnership with the State of New Jersey and NJIT is integral to strengthening both jurisdictions’ leadership in fostering the essential conditions for economic growth.

With two-way trade between Ontario and the U.S. valued at around $500 billion in 2023 and similar partnerships with other states including Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan recently announced, this agreement between OCI and NJIT is a pivotal step in strengthening cross-border collaboration in order to advance the commercialization of technologies and economic growth.

Media Contact
Alicia Pereira
apereira@oc-innovation.ca

About the Ontario Centre of Innovation
The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) brings industry, academic, and government partners together to invest in collaborative R&D, technology development, and commercialization opportunities that generate the highest return on innovation for Ontarians.

As an ecosystem connector, OCI initiates unparalleled partnership opportunities, develops, and manages successful industry-academic collaborations, supports high-potential SMEs in commercializing ground-breaking research, and provides hands-on training and skills development opportunities for the next generation of highly skilled talent.

OCI drives economic growth and job creation through investments in the development, commercialization, and adoption of advanced technologies.

For more information: https://www.oc-innovation.ca