Morning everyone,
If you’re still coming down from yesterday’s loss vs. Morocco: hang in there. A tough ending, but also, what an exciting game and what an exciting time for men’s soccer in Canada. In other news…
Hundreds of Vancouver residents marched to City Hall last weekend to oppose two planned AI data centres in the city, citing concerns about water and energy use. It's the backdrop against which Wafr Technologies announced this week that it has raised $100 million toward a $300 million goal to develop a Canadian AI research lab, built around technology designed to reduce the water and energy demands of AI data centres.
Also, a note that our mid-year check in has been pushed from July 8 to July 13. Hope we see you there.
-Emily
Events
SPONSORED BY RIIPEN
The AI action gap
AI from experiment to impact
Most companies are already experimenting with AI. Tools are being tested, prompts are being explored, and use cases are emerging across teams.
But many organizations still struggle to turn that activity into clear learning or measurable progress.
Without structure, AI efforts remain fragmented. Teams work in silos, making it difficult to understand what is working, what carries risk, and what is worth scaling.
Riipen is hosting a webinar, The AI Action Gap: Why You’re Not Behind (Yet), exploring how organizations can move from scattered AI experimentation to a more intentional and structured approach to AI adoption.
Register to turn AI experimentation into measurable progress. - Webinar registration link.
From The Journal
SPONSORED BY PHS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY
Help nourish Vancouver’s vulnerable seniors
PHS Community Services Society supports vulnerable seniors in Vancouver who need specialized meals.
Producing 3,900+ meals in a limited kitchen designed for 200 meals, they need your help.
Register or donate to the PHS Run Team through the Under Armour Eastside 10K to fund a new kitchen and essential meals.
Funding, Deals, and More
Vancouver's JUDI.AI has received a growth investment led by Conexus Venture Capital for its cash flow underwriting platform, which has processed over $2 billion in small business loan applications for credit unions across North America. Read more →
Mecka AI has acquired Vancouver startup Docula, bringing on its three-person team to help process the vast volumes of motion data Mecka collects to train robots. Read more →
Vancouver's BTQ Technologies has received French regulatory approval to acquire quantum computing firm QPerfect for just over $30 million CAD, adding quantum emulation and system modelling capabilities to its stack. Read more →
SPONSORED BY SHAWNIGAN RETREATS
Your escape on Vancouver Island
Shawnigan Retreats offers the perfect cozy retreat for family gatherings or romantic getaways. Nestled by the serene Shawnigan Lake, these luxurious accommodations feature a sauna, hot tub, games room with ping pong, cards, and board games, and even a private pickleball court. Enjoy nearby hikes through breathtaking nature and unwind in comfort. With space for up to 18 guests, Shawnigan Retreats promises an unforgettable experience.
Explore Shawnigan Retreats and plan your getaway today. Learn more about Shawnigan Retreats.
In Other News
Hundreds of Vancouver residents marched to City Hall on June 27 to oppose two planned AI data centres in the city, citing concerns about water and energy use as Metro Vancouver faces Stage 3 water restrictions. Read more →
TRIUMF's Chief of Staff Sean Lee has taken on an additional role as Acting CEO of Quantum Industry Canada, stepping in to strengthen ties between Canada's research ecosystem and its growing quantum industry. Read more →
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