BDC Seeks Co-Investment Partners as Canada Attracts 30,000 Tech Workers
BDC Launches $100 Million Thrive Lab, Offering $35 Million Co-Investment Pledge
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The Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) has unveiled the Thrive Lab for Women Entrepreneurs, an initiative aimed at providing $100 million CAD in equity and "equity-like" investments, as well as training and support, to at least 100 women-led businesses over the next five years. In the initial phase, BDC plans to invest $35 million in early-stage women-led ventures, including those in the pre-seed stage.
Tech Worker Influx: Over 30,000 Professionals Choose Canada, While US Attracts 1,700
According to a report from the Technology Councils of North America (TECNA) and the Canadian Tech Network (CTN), Canada has witnessed the arrival of more than 30,000 tech workers from overseas in the past year. The report also highlights Canada as the primary destination for US tech companies expanding or relocating.
Canadian Cleantech Companies Secure $105 Million in Funding: Carbon Harvesting and Orenia Lead the Way
Despite concerns about the funding landscape and capital outflows, Canadian cleantech companies continue to attract investments. CarbonCure and Orenia recently raised over $100 million each, demonstrating ongoing investor confidence in the sector.
Alberta Technology Minister Supports Easing Restrictions on "Software Engineer" Designation
The Minister of Technology and Innovation in Alberta, Nate Glubish, is advocating for the relaxation of limits on the designation of "software engineer." In his mandate letter, Minister Glubish aims to enable technology companies to attract highly sought-after professionals from competing jurisdictions without hindrance.
Hypercontext HR Introduces AI-Powered Performance Management Tool Following a Pivot
Hypercontext, based in Toronto, has launched an AI-powered performance management feature designed to transform the conventional performance review process. The tool aims to assist managers in generating employee performance reviews more efficiently and effectively.
Three Canadian Universities Rank Among Top 25 Computer Science Schools Globally
Waterloo, University of Toronto (U of T), and University of British Columbia (UBC) have been included in the list of top 25 computer science universities worldwide. The ranking, part of the QS World University Rankings, features 1,500 institutions across 104 locations.
Shopify Introduces Sidekick: AI Assistant Integrated into the Platform
Shopify CEO Toby Luttke recently announced the development of Sidekick, an AI product designed to act as an assistant for Shopify's merchants. Sidekick will be seamlessly integrated into the Shopify platform to provide valuable support and assistance to entrepreneurs.