Madison Genthry 
Canada has established itself as a global leader in technology and innovation. From large financial institutions like TD Bank and the Royal Bank of Canada to renowned firms such as Deloitte and PricewaterhouseCoopers, it’s clear that Canada has long been at the forefront of scientific and technological advancements.
With significant investments from both the private sector and government, the country is embracing the potential of Big Data to drive progress in e-commerce, healthcare, sustainability, and more. This progress is supported by cutting-edge fiber-optic networks, access to hyperscale data centers, and renewable energy resources. Let’s explore three key areas where emerging technologies are reshaping innovation and growth, paving the way for a brighter future for Canadians.
Transforming Commerce, Research, and Innovation with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT)
Artificial intelligence has deep roots in Canada. Decades ago, three computer scientists at Toronto’s Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) pioneered research in neural networks and deep learning. Their work laid the foundation for AI functionalities we use daily, such as Google Photos and Facebook Moments. Canada continues to lead in AI innovation, with the federal government funding initiatives like Scale AI, part of the Global Innovation Clusters. This cluster, which focuses on building intelligent supply chains, has already received $355 million in federal funding, with more investments planned through 2028.
Private companies are also heavily investing in AI and IoT. For instance, Toronto-based Snapcommerce leverages AI to help consumers find savings through mobile shopping. In Ontario, engineering firm Peytec integrates AI-driven IoT sensors to provide real-time analytics, benefiting industries like manufacturing and agriculture. Meanwhile, healthcare innovation is thriving in Vancouver, where biotech company AbCellera Biologics employs AI to discover therapeutic antibodies, even collaborating with Moderna to enhance mRNA medicines.
Amid these advancements, Canadians are also enjoying the benefits of digital transformation in the entertainment sector. There is a growing popularity of online casinos, which are designed to cater to the varying needs of players. Whether you prefer playing slots or at online roulette sites, these platforms have incorporated AI to offer immersive, real-time gaming experiences. For instance, a casino can use AI to analyse a player’s game preferences to recommend new games or games with similar features.
Enhancing Manufacturing and Sustainability with Robotics, AI, and Machine Learning (ML)
The manufacturing industry remains a cornerstone of Canada’s economy, contributing about 11% to the national GDP and employing 1.7 million people. Ontario, often dubbed Canada’s manufacturing hub, has bounced back strongly from the 2008 recession, with advanced manufacturing accounting for half of the new factory jobs created since 2010. The Advanced Manufacturing Supercluster has fueled this resurgence with a $250 million federal investment in robotics, 3D printing, and machine learning.
Canada’s industrial robot density—165 units per 10,000 employees compared to the global average of 113—showcases its leadership in automation. Robotics and AI are revolutionizing industries beyond manufacturing. In Alberta, oil and gas companies are utilizing AI and ML to improve resource recovery, enhance safety, and reduce environmental impact. Agriculture is also benefiting, with robotic harvesters and smart sensors enabling precise crop management, reducing costs, and improving food safety.
Fleet management is another area where machine learning-powered solutions are making an impact. Hamilton-based Preteckt, for instance, offers predictive maintenance software that helps keep vehicles operational, ensuring smoother supply chains. These innovations not only support economic growth but also highlight how Canada is prioritizing sustainability and efficiency across sectors. Furthermore, online platforms related to commerce and entertainment, such as gaming sites and e-commerce portals, leverage advanced algorithms to provide personalized experiences, illustrating how technological advancements impact various aspects of life, including leisure and consumer engagement.
Revolutionizing Mobility and Media with Advanced Connectivity
Canada is at the forefront of next-generation wireless technology, with significant investments in 5G networks to enhance connectivity. Wireless carriers are projected to spend $26 billion on 5G deployments, complementing the billions already invested in spectrum auctions. The federal government is also actively supporting 5G by repurposing the 3800 MHz spectrum band for enhanced services.
Even as 5G rollout continues, Canadian businesses and academic institutions are paving the way for 6G. This next wave of connectivity promises innovations like holographic communications, smart factories, and the Internet of Senses, which could revolutionize how we interact with technology. The establishment of a 6G research lab in Montreal, supported by VMware, Mitacs, and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, underscores Canada’s commitment to shaping the future of connectivity. With these developments, Canadians can look forward to transformative advancements in mobility and media that bridge the digital divide and foster a more connected society.
In the entertainment and gaming sectors, these advancements in connectivity have also allowed for the growth of online platforms, including gaming and gambling sites. Faster internet speeds enable real-time interactions, ensuring smoother and more engaging user experiences. For Canadians who enjoy online roulette or other digital games, these technological strides mean more reliable platforms, enhanced graphics, and secure environments that reflect the growing influence of technology on everyday activities.
