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mariacallous · 1 year ago

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A new report by environmental groups lays out a case for banning deep sea mining—and explains why the real solution to humanity’s energy crisis might just be sitting in the trash.

Deep sea mining is the pursuit of rare, valuable minerals that lie undisturbed upon the ocean floor—metals like nickel, cobalt, lithium, and rare earth elements. These so-called critical minerals are instrumental in the manufacture of everything from electric vehicle batteries and MRI machines to laptops and disposable vape cartridges—including, crucially, much of what’s needed to transition away from fossil fuels. Political leaders and the companies eager to dredge up critical minerals from the seafloor tend to focus on the feel-good, climate-friendly uses of the minerals, like EV batteries and solar panels. They’ll proclaim that the metals on the deep seafloor are an abundant resource that could help usher in a new golden age of renewable energy technology.

But deep sea mining has also been roundly criticized by environmentalists and scientists, who caution that the practice (which has not yet kicked off in earnest) could create a uniquely terrible environmental travesty and annihilate one of the most remote and least understood ecosystems on the planet.

There has been a wave of backlash from environmentalists, scientists, and even comedians like John Oliver, who devoted a recent segment of Last Week Tonight to lambasting deep sea mining. Some companies that use these materials in their products—Volvo, Volkswagen, BMW, and Rivian among them—have come out against deep sea mining and pledged not to use any metals that come from those abyssal operations. (Some prominent companies have done the exact opposite; last week, Tesla shareholders voted against a moratorium on using minerals sourced from deep sea mining.)

Even if you can wave away that ecological threat, mining the sea might simply be wholly unnecessary if the goal is to bring about a new era of global renewable energy. A new report, aptly titled “We Don’t Need Deep-Sea Mining,” aims to lay out why.

The report is a collaboration between the advocacy group US PIRG, Environment America Policy Center, and the nonprofit think tank Frontier Group. Nathan Proctor, senior director of the Campaign for the Right to Repair at PIRG and one of the authors of the new report, says the solution to sourcing these materials should be blindingly obvious. There are critical minerals all around us that don’t require diving deep into the sea. You’re probably holding some right now—they’re in nearly all our devices, including the billions of pounds of them sitting in the dump.

The secret to saving the deep sea, Proctor says, is to prioritize systems that focus on the materials we already have—establishing right to repair laws, improving recycling capabilities, and rethinking how we use tech after the end of its useful life cycle. These are all systems we have in place now that don’t require tearing up new lands thousands of feet below the ocean.

“We don't need to mine the deep sea,” Proctor reiterates. “It's about the dumbest way to get these materials. There's way better ways to address the needs for those metals like cobalt, nickel, copper, and the rest.”

Into the Abyss

Schemes for delving into the deep ocean have been on the boards for years. While the practice is not currently underway, mining companies are getting ready to dive in as soon as they can.

In January 2024, the Norwegian Parliament opened up its waters to companies looking to mine resources. The Metals Company is a Canadian mining operation that has been at the forefront of attempts to mine in the Pacific Ocean’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ)—an area of seabed that spans 3,100 miles between Mexico and Hawaii.

The proposed mining in the CCZ has gotten the most attention lately because the Metals Company secured rights to access key areas of the CCZ for mining in 2022, and its efforts are ramping up. The process involves gathering critical minerals from small rock-like formations called polymetallic nodules. Billions of these nodules rest along the seabed, seemingly sitting there ripe for the taking (if you can get down to them). The plan—one put forth by several mining companies, anyway—is to scrape the ocean floor with deep sea trawling systems and bring these nodules to the surface, where they can be broken down to extract the shiny special metals inside. Environmentalists say this poses a host of ecological problems for everything that lives in the vicinity.

Gerard Barron, the CEO of the Metals Company, contends that his efforts are misunderstood by activists and the media (especially, say, John Oliver).

“We're committed to circularity,” Barron says. “We have to drive towards circularity. We have to stop extracting from our planet. But the question is, how can you recycle what you don’t have?”

Both Barron and the authors of the activist report acknowledge that there aren’t perfect means of resource extraction anywhere—and there’s always going to be some environmental toll. Barron argues that it is better for this toll to play out in one of the most remote parts of the ocean.

“No matter what, you will be disrupting an ecosystem,” says Kelsey Lamp, ocean campaign director with the Environment America Research and Policy Center and an author of the report. “This is an ecosystem that evolved over millions of years without light, without human noise, and with incredibly clear water. If you disrupt it, the likelihood of it coming back is pretty low.”

For many of the life-forms down in the great deep, the nodules are the ecosystem. Removing the nodules from the seabed would remove all the life attached to them.

“This is a very disruptive process with ecosystems that may never recover,” says Tony Dutzik, associate director and senior policy analyst at the nonprofit think tank Frontier Group and another author of the report. “This is a great wilderness that is linked to the health of the ocean at large and that has wonders that we’re barely even beginning to recognize what they are.”

Barron counters that the life in the abyssal zone is less abundant than in an ecosystem like rainforests in Indonesia, where a great deal of nickel mines operate—although scientists discovered 5,000 new species in the CCZ in 2023 alone. He considers that the lesser of two evils.

“At the end of the day, it's not that easy,” You can't just say no to something. If you say no to this, you're saying yes to something else.”

The Circular Economy

Barron and others make the case that this ecosystem disruption is the only way to access the minerals needed to fuel the clean-tech revolution, and is therefore worth the cost in the long run. But Proctor and the others behind the report aren't convinced. They say that without fully investing in a circular economy that thinks more carefully about the resources we use, we will continue to burn through the minerals needed for renewable tech the same way we've burned through fossil fuels.

“I just had this initial reaction when I heard about deep sea mining,” Proctor says. “Like, ‘Oh, really? You want to strip mine the ocean floor to build electronic devices that manufacturers say we should all throw away?’”

While mining companies may wax poetic about using critical minerals for building clean tech, there's no guarantee that's where the minerals will actually wind up. They are also commonly used in much more consumer-facing devices, like phones, laptops, headphones, and those aforementioned disposable vape cartridges. Many of these devices are not designed to be long lasting, or repairable. In many cases, big companies like Apple and Microsoft have actively lobbied to make repairing their devices more difficult, all but guaranteeing more of them will end up in the landfill.

“I spend every day throwing my hands up in frustration by just how much disposable, unfixable, ridiculous electronics are being shoveled on people with active measures to prevent them from being able to reuse them,” Proctor says. “If these are really critical materials, why are they ending up in stuff that we're told is instantly trash?”

The report aims to position critical minerals in products and e-waste as an “abundant domestic resource.” The way to tap into that is to recommit to the old mantra of reduce, reuse, recycle—with a couple of additions. The report adds the concept of repairing and reimagining products to the list, calling them the five Rs. It calls for making active efforts to extend product lifetimes and invest in “second life” opportunities for tech like solar panels and battery recycling that have reached the end of their useful lifespan. (EV batteries used to be difficult to recycle, but more cutting-edge battery materials can often work just as well as new ones, if you recycle them right.)

Treasures in the Trash

The problem is thinking of these deep sea rocks in the same framework of fossil fuels. What may seem like an abundant resource now is going to feel much more finite later.

“There is a little bit of the irony, right, that we think it's easier to go out and mine and potentially destroy one of the most mysterious remote wildernesses left on this planet just to get more of the metals we're throwing in the trash every day,” Lamp says.

And in the trash is where the resources remain. Electronics manufacturing is growing five times faster than e-waste recycling, so without investment to disassemble those products for their critical bits, all the metals will go to waste. Like deep sea mining, the infrastructure needed to make this a worthwhile path forward will be tremendous, but committing to it means sourcing critical minerals from places nearby, and reducing some waste in the process.

Barron says he isn't convinced these efforts will be enough. “We need to do all of that,” Barron says, “You know, it's not one or the other. We have to do all of that, but what we have to do is slow down destroying those tropical rainforests.” He adds, “If you take a vote against ocean metals, it is a vote for something else. And that something else is what we’ve got right now.”

Proctor argues that commonsense measures, implemented broadly and forcefully across society to further the goal of creating a circular economy, including energy transition minerals, will ultimately reduce the need for all forms of extraction, including land and deep-sea mining.

“We built this system that knows how to do one thing, which is take stuff out of the earth, put it into products and sell them, and then plug our ears and forget that they exist,” Proctor says. “That’s not the reality we live in. The sooner that we can disentangle that kind of paradigm from the way we think about consumption and industrial policy the better, because we're going to kill everybody with that kind of thinking.”

Just like mining the deep sea, investing in a circular economy is not going to be an easy task. There is an allure of deep sea mining when it is presented as a one-stop shop for all the materials needed for the great energy transition. But as the authors of the report contend, the idea of exploiting a vast deposit of resources is the same relationship society has had with fossil fuels—they’re seemingly abundant resources ripe for the picking, but also they are ultimately finite.

“If we treat these things as disposable, as we have, we’re going to need to continually refill that bucket,” Dutzik says. “If we can build an economy in which we’re getting the most out of every bit of what we mine, reusing things when we can, and then recycling the material at the end of their lives, we can get off of that infinite extraction treadmill that we’ve been on for a really long time.”

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thelattechronicles · 8 months ago

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Going from Kindle to Kobo: My Thoughts and how I settled on the Clara BW

I've had my one and only e-reader: the 4th generation Kindle since 2011. That's quite literally over a decade old- 13 years, to be exact.

It's been deemed old enough to justify an upgrade. Not that I had even been needing one, or considering getting a new one; rather, the Kindle had just started glitching on me and freezing this past September. After 13 years, I'd say it's an accomplishment that it took this long for the tech to finally start breaking down on me. Believe me when I say that this Kindle had not been babied by any means whatsoever.

Now, it's been exactly 30 days since I've gone from my Kindle 4th gen 2011 model (thanks Mom and Dad) to the new Kobo Clara BETWEEN. Read on to see what my thoughts are on this upgrade!

I don't think I can go back to the Kindle UX and world, and I truly do see what people are saying about Kobo just being overall better.

For starters, here are the specs between both as a comparison:

(Side note: the 4th gen Kindle is SO old that I had to dig around for a review of it, and found one on The Ebook Reader dot com)

As you can tell from the glaring number of red X circles, the basic Kindle 4th gen does not have as much much going for it compared to my new Kobo Clara BW. But that's okay! Here are some things I LIKED about the Kindle:

The e-ink screen

The physical page turning buttons on the side - I still love the page turners and how I just need to press down on the side. The buttons are very streamlined and a part of the side plastic framing.

The wallpapers when the device is turned off

The battery life (once upon a time, one charge could last me a good 4 months I stg)

The size of the screen (was not willing to go smaller, but was open to go bigger)

Straightforward system and user interface (turn on, find book, read.)

Being able to email epubs and PDFs to the Kindle directly via the Whispernet

Here are some things I DISLIKE about my Kindle today:

Its current extremely short battery life (I don't think a charge can last me two weeks now)

Being locked into the Kindle Amazon storefront and ecosystem - yes, I purchased each and every book on Amazon that I have on my Kindle...

Not being able to make Libby work on the Kindle (as a Canadian reader)

Lack of backlighting options

Anything to do with any sort of typing (I had to physically press the arrow buttons and wait until it landed on the right letter to press enter, then move on to the next letter, rinse repeat. Needless to say, it gets exhausting real quick trying to type out a short word, let alone a title of a book you're trying to find in your Kindle library storage.)

Lack of ad-free options with today's Kindle models (I got lucky with my Kindle 4th gen, where the home screen goes directly to my storage, listing all the books and collection folders I created. I hear this is no longer a thing, and the home page is the Amazon Kindle storefront. Ew.)

So, the Kobo Clara BW does a lot of what I liked about my Kindle - and more! It has quite a lot going for it: a long battery life, multiple backlighting options (reg vs warm lighting), bluetooth (if I wanted to do audiobooks, but I do that on my phone anyway so it's just a bonus for me). The Kobo Clara BW has crisp displays (I've read some manga and comics on it), and the zooming in and text font/size adjustments are super easy to navigate.

I know, I know. No physical page-turning buttons. I still lament the loss of my buttons. I know there are some Kobo models such as the Libra that have the buttons, but I strongly believe that the Kindle 4th gen buttons are superior. I liked that they were a part of the side, rather than a blocky-looking extension, like the buttons on the Libra are. The touch screen was a bit of an interesting thing to navigate in the beginning, but as we use touch-screen phones, it was very easy and quick to get used to it.

Why not the colour option?

Granted, the Kobo Clara colour as well as some other colour alternatives did come out. Why did I not choose the colour option? Yes, colour e-ink and e-readers are pretty to look at, but for someone who uses e-readers purely to read novels and text-heavy documents, it seemed unnecessary for my purposes. In store, I did a side-by-side comparison of the Clara Colour and BW and actually found the lighting to be drastically different at max brightness and warmth. Here's a picture I found online that gives you an idea of what I mean:

As you can see, the Clara BW version (right) has a crisper and whiter background, and the Clara Colour (left) looked a bit orange-red-toned overall.

ABOVE ALL: the Kobo ecosystem has been fantastic for me.

As someone who has been pitifully buying every single e-book on Amazon thus far or loading janky PDFs with too-small-text, the Kobo Clara BW is a breath of fresh air. It was very easy to connect my Libby account in the Settings. I now have an automatic delivery of all my ebook loans to my Kobo (!!!!) (A dream come true for Canadian e-readers!). I also have Calibre downloaded on my laptop and with it, can customize my Kobo to no end. You can see that I've gone ahead and gave my Kobo some wallpapers, which include my favourite The New Yorker covers. I'm happy with how much I can do with my Kobo. The Pocket app feature also came as a pleasant surprise! It's nice being able to read articles during work lunches and save any interesting articles on my computer, and those articles get automatically downloaded to my Kobo.

In true The Latte Chronicles fashion, if I were to give my Kobo Clara BW a rating:

★★★★★

If you're like me as a reader and your needs are similar to mine (and maybe your old Kindle is dying on you) I encourage you to make the jump to Kobo! I haven't regretted my Kobo Clara BW purchase at all. In fact, I've already finished 13 books since I booted up my Clara.

#kobo plus #kobo ereader #kobo books #kobo clara #kobo clara bw #kobo review #books and reading #ebook #books #kindle #kindle ebooks #kobo libra colour #e reader #thelattechronicles

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covid-safer-hotties · 10 months ago

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Why the next pandemic could come from the Arctic — and what to do about it - Published Sept 4, 2024

By: Christian Sonne

Only a unified approach across disciplines can reduce the underappreciated threat of emerging diseases arising in the north.

The Arctic is under stress, that much is known. Between 1979 and 2021, the region warmed four times faster than the global average, with effects — as yet poorly understood — on its ecology and ability to store carbon, on global sea levels and on wider ocean-circulation and weather patterns.

Add in the effects of biodiversity loss and pollution, and people often refer to a triple planetary crisis. I think we should actually be talking about a quadruple crisis. Since starting research in the Arctic in 1997, I have spent nearly all of my summers there, monitoring changes in pollution levels, habitats and food webs using a ‘One Health’ approach that integrates effects on wildlife, humans and ecosystems. And it’s becoming clear that, as the Arctic warms, its environment degrades and human activities increase, new health threats are emerging. In particular, the Arctic is likely to become a hotbed for zoonotic diseases that spill over into humans from other animals. That threat was brought home to all of us by the COVID-19 pandemic. We need to take seriously the possibility that the next pandemic could come from the north.

Some 60% of emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic. Their emergence and spillover is in general highly interlinked with habitat degradation, biodiversity loss and food-web changes — all of which are present in the Arctic. But a warming Arctic harbours other risks. As sea ice thaws, ‘forever chemicals’ are increasingly being transported into Arctic environments. These include mercury, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and polychlorinated biphenyls, all known to modulate human and animal immune systems and increase vulnerability to respiratory infections. Invasive fish and whale species are also bringing in industrial chemicals and their own diseases.

The pathogens enter an environment in which some native species, such as polar bears (Ursus maritimus), have not been exposed to them, and so are at increased risk. The release of ancient microorganisms long frozen in ice and sediments as the landscape thaws adds to this danger: humans and other wildlife are likely to lack any immune defences against them.

These risk factors are set to increase. The first ice-free Arctic summers could come as early as the 2030s. The Arctic Ocean has huge potential for energy, fishery and tourism sectors, and is not subject to any global treaty regulating its exploitation. Further wildlife disturbance, pollution, overfishing and jurisdictional conflicts are the likely result.

The current perception is that the Arctic possesses relatively low microbial activity. Compared with temperate and tropical latitudes, many fewer resources are devoted to studying zoonoses in the Arctic, with sparse surveillance for emerging threats in most areas. This needs to change — taking account of human, animal and wider environmental perspectives.

When it comes to logistics, low-tech is high-tech in the Arctic. On the human side, Canadian researchers have already started taking samples from sewage and other sources that can easily be analysed for the presence of viral pathogens. This kind of approach should be combined with better access to community health care, clinical inspections and consultations with local doctors. A particular flash point is the handling and consumption of raw or dried animal meat in subsistence-hunting communities. Hygiene courses, meat inspection and better disease surveillance developed in partnership with those communities can help to both sustain food security and prevent spillover events.

On the wildlife side, long-term finance is needed for yearly and seasonal surveillance programmes. These schemes should collaborate with local communities using existing techniques that don’t rely on technologies such as cryogenics and so are easy to use in situ. Such activities could be embedded into the ongoing Arctic Council monitoring and assessment programmes on pollution, biodiversity and climate change, as laid out in the council’s ‘One Arctic, One Health’ project.

On the broader environmental front, efforts to reduce pollution, safeguard biodiversity and reduce greenhouse-gas emissions through international agreements play their part. Efforts spearheaded by various Arctic Council working groups, and other initiatives such as the ongoing negotiations for a United Nations-backed treaty on plastic pollution, show how intergovernmental and interdisciplinary collaboration across public health, biodiversity conservation, pollution and food security can help with achieving sustainability.

To make a true difference, there is need for a broader Arctic monitoring and assessment plan, underpinned by treaty, that combines surveillance of pollution and of disease. This is currently difficult to achieve through the Arctic Council, given the absence of Russia and Russian data since the country’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. A better opportunity to establish a holistic understanding and action plan might be afforded by the proposed pandemic-preparedness treaty, currently under negotiation at the World Health Organization. This could build on the efforts of almost 200 globally recognized One Health Networks, including those in the Arctic.

Action must be taken now. If it isn’t, it will become more difficult to mitigate wildlife interactions and diagnose, treat and isolate people with an infection — and the risk of a future pandemic with an Arctic ground zero will only increase.

Nature 633, 10 (2024)

doi: doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-02830-7

#mask up #pandemic #wear a mask #public health

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canadaworkpermitvisaconsultants · 4 months ago

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Top 5 Canadian Cities for New Immigrants

New immigrants can find numerous opportunities to succeed in Canada's welcoming cities which thrive with diversity and energy. Every Canadian city offers distinctive benefits which include economic opportunities together with cultural experiences. These five Canadian cities are recognized as top destinations for newcomers seeking new beginnings.

1. Toronto, Ontario

The biggest city in Canada Toronto stands as a dynamic metropolis celebrated for its economic strength and cultural diversity. Half of Toronto's inhabitants originate from abroad demonstrating its position as a key destination for immigrants.The city's diverse communities make it simpler for newcomers to establish cultural bonds and support networks.

The Toronto economy excels in a variety of industries, including banking, technology, healthcare and education. Major banks and organizations have placed their headquarters in the Financial District along Bay Street, creating countless job opportunities. Toronto is a prominent technology hub, ranking as North America's third largest tech center behind Silicon Valley and New York City. Professionals from multiple industries find Toronto appealing because the city prioritizes innovation and growth.

Culturally, Toronto has various museums, galleries and festivals, including the Toronto International Film Festival and Caribana, which celebrates Caribbean culture. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), the city's public transportation system, provides wide coverage, making it easier for citizens to navigate. Many visitors discover that the city's vibrant lifestyle and opportunities outweigh the high cost of living.

2. Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver, located between the Pacific Ocean and the Coastal Mountain Range, is well-known for its stunning natural beauty and mild temperature. The city is a cultural melting pot, with visible minorities accounting for roughly half of the total population. This diversity is evident in the city's strong food industry, cultural festivals and community gatherings.

Vancouver has a varied economy, with strengths in technology, film production, and tourism. The city is a prominent film production center, hence the nickname "Hollywood North." The Port of Vancouver is one of the largest in North America, allowing international trade and boosting the city's economy. Vancouver has a thriving startup ecosystem and several established tech enterprises.

Stanley Park is one of the several parks and natural places in the city that reflects the commitment to sustainability and environmentally friendly living. The city’s public transportation system is advanced, as buses, SkyTrains and SeaBus connect various locations. Despite the fact that the costs of owning property are some of the highest in Canada, a great number of people believe that the natural setting and quality of life justifies the price.

3. Montreal, Quebec

Montreal is a North American city in a league of its own. To start with, it is the largest city in the Quebec province of Canada which is a French-speaking province, hence intertwining European charm with distinct North American dynamism. The French and English speaking population allows immigrants to easily adapt to the culture while also making use of local facilities so the blending is seamless.

Montreal is a global hub for artificial intelligence research and is also home to key industries like aerospace, technology, pharmaceuticals and design. Multinational professionals from all over the world flock to the city for job opportunities which helps boost the economy. Along with other Canadian cities, Montreal is also known for its higher standard of living, but Montreal is unique in the fact that it has the most affordable housing among major Canadian cities. The cost of living is relatively lower which is an added benefit. The public transport system provided by the government also boosts commuting convenience.

Montreal’s colorful and vibrant local culture is arguably one of the strongest reasons immigrants choose to relocate to the city. With festivals being an inseparable part of life in Montreal, the Montreal International Jazz Festival and Just for Laughs comedy festival being two of the most popular ones, keeps the passion for culture and civilization blazing. Every neighborhood in Montreal has a unique touch which allows new citizens to experience something completely new.

4. Calgary, Alberta

Calgary stands out as a city with great life quality, robust economic activities, and closeness to natural wonders such as the Rocky Mountains. It has a multicultural populace and a large percentage of the residents in the city are immigrants. Traditionally, Calgary has had an energy-based economy focused on oil and gas. More recently, it has been expanding into other industries like technology, manufacturing and finance. The city has a strong median family income rate and a low unemployment rate, which does wonders for professionals hoping to advance their careers.

Calgary's economy has been growing which has helped with the cost of living, which is lower than other major cities such as Toronto and Vancouver. The public transportation system in the city, Calgary Transit, operates a network of buses and a light rail system called CTrain, which helps with jumping around the city easily. Calgary Stampede is another famous event held in the city where people from all over the globe come together to celebrate Calgary's western cultural heritage. There are also many national parks and ski resorts close to the city for those who prefer outdoor activities.

5. Montreal, Quebec

Ottawa serves as the heart of Canada as the capital city of the country. It serves a great combination of heritage, economy, and great living standards. It is renowned for its cleanliness, sanity, and green areas, making it perfect for people looking for a tranquil setting. The federal government bolsters Ottawa’s economy, being the region’s largest employer, which allows the government to provide a stable job environment to public service professionals. Additionally, with its increasing technology industries, Ottawa has received the name “Silicon Valley North.”

The cost of living in Ottawa is reasonable, and the price index is notably lower than that of Toronto. Ottawa's public transportation system OC Transpo includes extensive bus service and light rail known as the O-Train. Moreover Ottawa is known for the University of Ottawa and Carleton University which makes the city perfect for scholars and students. The city hosts a large number of national cultural attractions such as museums and galleries in addition to annual events like the Canadian Tulip Festival. Two of the main languages spoken in the city are English and French, making the environment welcoming for people immigrating to the city.

Conclusion

Each of these cities offers something unique for new immigrants. Whether you prioritize job opportunities, affordability, or cultural diversity, there’s a Canadian city that’s right for you. Before making your decision, consider factors like the job market, cost of living and lifestyle to find the best fit for you and your family.

#canada #australia #ukraine #study visa #visaconsultants #best visa immigration consultants #visa inc

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aditisposts · 1 year ago

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Data Science Career Prospects for International Graduates in Canada

With the Toronto-Waterloo innovation corridor branded as Canada’s Silicon Valley and Montreal rising as an AI hub - data science graduates find unmatched career mobility given the specialized talent crunch amidst booming tech ecosystems nationwide seeking analytics, machine learning and business intelligence experts across sectors.

Whether it is global networks like Deloitte, CISCO, IBM, Aviva,SAP, Thomson Reuters looking to drive data-informed decisions or emerging startups tackling complex business challenges using predictive models - Canadian employers offer exciting learning opportunities for international students transitioning into full-time high-skilled roles.

Lucrative data science salaries averaging over CAD $80,000 for entry roles also make Canada appealing for applicants focused on immigration pathways. Generous 3-year post graduate work permits enable valuable Canadian work experience for express entry eligibility. PR also facilitates global mobility to the USA given NAFTA relationships.

While successfully securing full-time employment necessitates preparing for rigorous recruitment cycles - leveraging university career center supports around CV guides, networking events and interview preps can make landing aspirational data science jobs after graduation achievable given Canada’s expanding analytics market.

Posted By:

Aditi Borade, 4th year Barch,

Ls Raheja School of architecture

Disclaimer: The perspectives shared in this blog are not intended to be prescriptive. They should act merely as viewpoints to aid overseas aspirants with helpful guidance. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research before availing the services of a consultant.

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mani022blogs · 6 days ago

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Maple Dreams and Global Degrees: Why Indian Students Thrive in Canada

When Indian students dream of studying abroad, many immediately think of North America. But in recent years, Canada—often perceived as the quieter neighbor of the U.S.—has rapidly climbed the list of top study destinations. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, multicultural cities, and world-class education system, Canada offers more than just cold winters and warm maple syrup. It offers a future.

Choosing to study in Canada is not just a strategic academic decision but also a lifestyle and career move that opens doors globally. With over 320,000 international students from India alone, Canada has created an educational ecosystem that thrives on inclusivity, research, and innovation.

Let’s explore why Canada is becoming a first-choice destination for Indian students and how you can join the ranks.

Why Canada Is More Than a Popular Choice

Canada’s appeal lies in its perfect balance of quality education, immigration-friendly policies, and affordability. Canadian degrees are globally recognized and rooted in real-world learning, which makes graduates ready to contribute anywhere in the world.

Key reasons Indian students love Canada:

Globally ranked universities and colleges

Post-study work permits and immigration pathways

Affordable compared to the U.S. and UK

Safe, multicultural, and welcoming environment

High employment rates for international graduates

Top Universities in Canada for Indian Students

Canada is home to a wide variety of institutions—from research-intensive universities to career-focused colleges. Most universities offer a broad spectrum of programs in engineering, business, science, arts, healthcare, and emerging technologies.

Here are the top universities in Canada for Indian students:

University of Toronto – A global leader in research, known for engineering, medicine, and business.

University of British Columbia (UBC) – Offers strong programs in forestry, computer science, and sustainability.

McGill University – Located in Montreal, it’s known for medicine, law, and humanities.

University of Alberta – Excellent for energy studies, engineering, and health sciences.

University of Waterloo – Canada’s tech hub, popular for computer science and co-op education.

McMaster University – A powerhouse for health sciences and medical research.

Western University – Business, law, and economics thrive here.

Queen’s University – Strong in commerce, engineering, and liberal arts.

Simon Fraser University – Known for interactive arts, communication, and computing.

York University – Offers strong interdisciplinary programs and an affordable option for international students.

In addition to these, many Indian students also explore high-quality community colleges such as Centennial College, Seneca College, and George Brown College for diploma and applied degrees.

In-Demand Programs Among Indian Students

Canada’s dynamic economy and forward-thinking universities mean that Indian students can find programs tailored to the job market. Popular areas of study include:

Computer Science & IT

Business & Finance (including MBA)

Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Software)

Health & Life Sciences

Environmental Studies

Artificial Intelligence & Data Science

Media, Communication & Journalism

Hospitality & Culinary Arts

These programs often include co-op or internship options, allowing students to gain valuable Canadian work experience even before graduation.

Cost of Studying and Living in Canada

Compared to the U.S. or UK, Canada is considered more affordable, especially when factoring in tuition and living costs.

Tuition Fees: Ranges from CAD 15,000 to CAD 35,000/year, depending on the course and institution.

Living Expenses: Average CAD 10,000–15,000/year.

Health Insurance: Varies by province; most universities include it in the fees.

To ease financial strain, many Canadian universities and provincial governments offer scholarships specifically for Indian and other international students.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Here are a few popular scholarships available:

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)

York University International Student Scholarship

UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award

Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Grants

University-specific entrance scholarships and need-based aid

Additionally, Indian students can work part-time (20 hours/week during semesters) and full-time during breaks, helping offset costs while gaining work experience.

A Clear Path to Permanent Residency

One of Canada’s strongest pulls is its immigration-friendly policies. After completing your studies, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to work in Canada for up to 3 years. This work experience is often the bridge to Permanent Residency (PR) through programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

Many Indian graduates go on to build long-term careers and families in Canada, making the country not just a place to study but a place to belong.

Application Process: Step-by-Step

Research and shortlist programs: Choose your course and university based on your interests, career goals, and budget.

Check eligibility: Most programs require academic transcripts, English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), SOP, and letters of recommendation.

Apply directly: Use the university’s application portal or platforms like OUAC (Ontario Universities' Application Centre).

Receive Letter of Acceptance: This is crucial for visa applications.

Apply for Study Permit: Requires a Statement of Purpose, proof of funds, biometrics, and GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) if applying under SDS (Student Direct Stream).

Travel and settle in Canada: Once approved, you can enter Canada and participate in orientation programs.

Life Beyond the Lecture Hall

Canada offers a high quality of life to its students. Whether you’re hiking in British Columbia, experiencing the French charm of Montreal, or enjoying the festivals of Toronto, life in Canada is anything but dull.

Cultural Adaptation: With large Indian communities across cities, cultural events, Indian food, and festivals like Diwali and Holi are celebrated with enthusiasm.

Safety and Inclusion: Canada is known for its low crime rates and open-minded society, making it an ideal environment for international students.

Job Market: Graduates find work in global firms like Deloitte, Google, Shopify, RBC, and Bombardier, or even join startups and social enterprises.

Conclusion: Canada—A Country That Educates and Elevates

To study in Canada is to choose opportunity. With a balanced focus on education, personal development, and career readiness, Canada enables students to excel both during and after their studies.

With world-ranked universities in Canada for Indian students, generous scholarships, and a path to permanent residency, Canada isn’t just a study destination—it’s a launchpad to a better life. For Indian students ready to take the leap, Canada offers everything you need to succeed, settle, and soar.

#study in canada

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jamesmilleer2407 · 10 days ago

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Kalkine: Mapping Growth Potential Through the TSX SmallCap Index

Canada’s equity markets are home to a dynamic segment of companies that fall outside the large-cap spotlight but carry notable momentum in niche sectors. Representing this space is the tsx smallcap index, a benchmark designed to reflect the performance of small-cap entities listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. These companies, though smaller in market capitalization, are often characterized by agility, innovation, and strong sector alignment.

Purpose and Scope of the Index

The tsx smallcap index captures a curated selection of small-cap companies, offering insights into the performance of businesses that often operate on the frontier of market opportunity. These firms may not yet meet the criteria for inclusion in more prominent indices, but they represent a vital layer of the capital market ecosystem. From industrial services and consumer products to energy and emerging technologies, the index mirrors a broad mix of Canada’s evolving economy.

This index serves as a crucial tool for analyzing the behavior of companies that typically receive less attention in mainstream financial discourse but nonetheless contribute meaningfully to economic activity and sector-specific innovation.

Composition and Selection Criteria

The companies in the tsx smallcap index are selected based on specific thresholds for market capitalization and liquidity, excluding those already included in the TSX Composite Index. This ensures a clear distinction between small-cap participants and larger, more established peers. Regular reviews of index constituents are conducted to maintain accuracy and reflect changing market dynamics.

This structure allows the index to continuously highlight firms that are gaining relevance in their respective sectors, whether through technological advancement, operational expansion, or evolving consumer demand.

Sector Representation and Economic Role

The tsx smallcap index includes diverse sectors, with noticeable weight in industrials, mining, technology, and real estate. These sectors often experience higher cyclical variation but also hold potential for rapid development. For example, resource-oriented companies within the index may benefit from commodity demand trends, while tech firms can reflect broader digital transformation in niche applications.

These sectoral representations not only contribute to the index’s performance but also signal underlying shifts in Canada’s economic growth engines.

Behavioral Characteristics and Volatility

Small-cap stocks generally exhibit higher price variability, and the tsx smallcap index is no exception. This volatility stems from factors such as limited operating history, smaller market presence, and sensitivity to sector-specific developments. However, this same feature also allows the index to be a leading indicator for emerging sector trends and innovations.

Market movements in this index can offer an early glimpse into changing investor sentiment across fast-moving or developing sectors, often preceding broader market adjustments.

Complementary Role Within the TSX Ecosystem

The tsx smallcap index is not a standalone benchmark but works in tandem with other Canadian market indices. While the TSX Composite Index captures large and mid-cap performance, and the TSX Venture Composite Index focuses on early-stage ventures, the tsx smallcap index fills the gap by focusing on smaller, more mature companies that are still in expansion mode.

This positioning makes the index an essential layer in understanding the full range of market capitalization distribution and business maturity within Canada's public markets.

Global Ambitions from a Local Base

Many of the companies featured in the tsx smallcap index operate internationally or aspire to expand across borders. From technology licensing to resource exports, these businesses often build global strategies that start with a strong Canadian foundation. This global ambition adds complexity to the index and increases its relevance in cross-market studies and global industry benchmarking.

It also highlights the important role Canada plays as a launching ground for businesses with international potential, particularly in innovation-heavy and resource-rich sectors.

Governance and Standards

Despite being composed of smaller firms, the index maintains stringent inclusion standards related to corporate governance, financial reporting, and liquidity. This ensures that constituents of the tsx smallcap index uphold credibility and transparency, which are essential for market confidence.

Regular rebalancing and index reviews further reinforce the credibility and timeliness of the index, making it a consistent reflection of small-cap market conditions.

The tsx smallcap index is increasingly monitored for sector-specific signals, especially in areas like clean energy, fintech, real estate development, and specialty industrials. These sectors have been growing in prominence and are often where innovation first gains measurable traction before scaling.

#TSXSmallCapIndex #CanadianStocks #SmallCapStocks #TSX #EquityMarkets

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visatips · 12 days ago

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Startup Visas for Indians: Your Global Launchpad for Innovation

In an increasingly interconnected world, the ambition of Indian entrepreneurs is no longer limited by geographical boundaries. With India emerging as a global startup hub, a growing number of founders are looking to expand their ventures internationally or establish new innovative businesses in countries with thriving ecosystems. This aspiration has led to a significant interest in startup visas – specialized immigration pathways designed to attract entrepreneurial talent.

Startup visas offer a unique avenue for innovators to gain residency, access funding, and tap into global markets, providing a powerful launchpad for their ideas. For Indian founders, these visas represent a strategic opportunity to leverage international resources, networks, and customer bases.

What are Startup Visas?

Unlike traditional work or business visas, startup visas are specifically tailored for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas. They aim to inject fresh ideas, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the host country. While the specific requirements vary widely, common threads include:

Innovative Business Idea: The core of the application often revolves around a compelling and original business plan that demonstrates scalability and potential for significant impact.

Support from Designated Organizations: Many programs require endorsement from government-approved incubators, accelerators, or venture capital funds, validating the business's potential.

Financial Viability: Applicants must usually prove sufficient funds to support themselves and their business during the initial stages.

Commitment to the Host Country: A genuine intention to establish and actively manage the business from within the host country is crucial.

Popular Destinations for Indian Entrepreneurs

Several countries have actively rolled out attractive startup visa programs, recognizing the immense value of entrepreneurial immigration. Here are some of the most sought-after destinations for Indian founders:

Canada (Start-Up Visa Program): Canada stands out as a top choice, offering a direct path to permanent residency. It requires a letter of support from a designated Canadian organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator) and meeting minimum language and settlement fund requirements. The program's focus on innovation and its welcoming immigration policies make it highly appealing.

United Kingdom (Innovator Founder Visa): The UK's Innovator Founder Visa is designed for individuals with an innovative, viable, and scalable business idea. It offers a 3-year visa with a pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). There's no longer a minimum investment requirement, but endorsement from an approved endorsing body is essential.

Portugal (Startup Visa): Portugal's Startup Visa aims to attract investment and talent. It requires an innovative company with the potential to create qualified employment and achieve specific turnover/asset value targets within five years. Applicants must secure an agreement with a certified incubator.

Estonia (Startup Visa): Known for its digital-first approach and high number of startups per capita, Estonia offers a straightforward startup visa for non-EU founders. It focuses on innovative business ideas and doesn't require a large capital investment for the visa itself.

Germany (Startup Visa/Self-Employment Visa): Germany offers a residence permit for self-employment, which can be utilized by startup founders. While not a dedicated "startup visa" in the same vein as Canada, it's a viable option for those with a solid business plan that benefits the German economy. Success can lead to permanent residency.

France (French Tech Visa - Talent Passport): France is actively promoting itself as a tech hub. The French Tech Visa (under the Talent Passport scheme) offers a four-year residence permit for founders of innovative business projects, with family reunification benefits.

Australia (Business Innovation and Investment Visa - Entrepreneur Stream): Australia has various business innovation visas, including an entrepreneur stream. It typically requires endorsement from a state or territory government and demonstrating a funding agreement to develop an innovative idea.

Key Benefits for Indian Founders

Access to Capital and Funding: Many startup visa programs connect entrepreneurs with local investors, incubators, and accelerators, opening doors to vital seed funding and venture capital that might be harder to secure in nascent ecosystems.

Global Market Access: Establishing a business in a new country provides direct access to its domestic market and often, through free trade agreements or blocs like the EU, access to larger regional or global markets.

Diverse Talent Pool: Founders can tap into a new pool of skilled talent, often with specialized expertise and international experience.

Mentorship and Networking: Startup ecosystems in these countries offer robust support networks, including experienced mentors, industry experts, and a community of fellow entrepreneurs.

Path to Residency and Citizenship: A significant long-term benefit is the potential to gain permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship in the host country, providing stability and broader opportunities for the founder and their family.

Favorable Business Environment: Many countries offering startup visas boast streamlined business registration, supportive government policies, and infrastructure conducive to innovation.

Exposure to New Perspectives: Operating in a different cultural and business environment can foster unique insights and innovative solutions.

The Application Process: General Steps

While specific requirements vary, the general steps for applying for a startup visa for Indians often include:

Business Plan Development: Crafting a detailed, innovative, and viable business plan is paramount.

Securing Endorsement/Funding: Obtaining a letter of support from a designated organization or demonstrating secure funding (if required).

Meeting Eligibility Criteria: Ensuring all personal and financial requirements are met.

Document Compilation: Gathering all necessary personal documents, business plans, financial proofs, and educational/professional credentials.

Visa Application Submission: Applying through the respective embassy, consulate, or designated visa application center in India.

Interviews/Biometrics: Attending interviews and providing biometric data as required.

Relocation and Business Establishment: Upon visa approval, relocating and actively establishing the business.

For Indian entrepreneurs with groundbreaking ideas and a drive to go global, startup visas offer an exciting and practical pathway. Thorough research into specific country requirements and a meticulously prepared application are the first steps toward realizing their international entrepreneurial dreams.

#business #visa services #visa process #visa application #visa consultants

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smacwareindia · 16 days ago

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What is good iPhone / Android game development companies in Canada?

Why Canada Is a Hotspot for Game Development

Canada's game development scene thrives due to a combination of government impulses, top- league tech gift, and multilateral creativity. metropolises like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have come attractions for invention, attracting both homegrown and transnational investments in game development.

The Rise of iPhone and Android Game Development

With over 3 billion smartphones in use encyclopedically, the demand for immersive, high- performance mobile games has soared. iPhone and 1 Android game development companies are now more essential than ever, creating witching content for a fleetly expanding followership.

What Makes a Great Game Development Company?

It’s not just about writing law. A solid development mate brings conceptualization, liar, UI/ UX design, robust programming, andpost-launch support. nimble methodologies, a passion for gaming, and clear communication set the stylish piecemeal.

Key Services Offered by Game Development enterprises

Top- league companies offer a comprehensive suite of services — game design, 2D/ 3D vitality, sound design, monetization strategy, QA testing, and more. Full- cycle development ensures your idea turns into a game that hooks players and scales well.

Notable Android game development companies in Canada

Some name names include

Relish Interactive( Toronto) Specializes in narrative- driven mobile games.

Bkom Studios( Quebec City) Known forcross-platform capabilities and rich story- grounded mobile games.

Big Blue Bubble( London, Ontario) generators of My Singing Monsters, they’ve learned Android ecosystems.

East Side Games( Vancouver) Masters of idle game mechanics and live operations.

Each of these Android game development companies excels in performance optimization and stoner engagement.

Best iPhone Game Developers Grounded in Toronto

Toronto hosts a vibrant collection of Apple- centric workrooms

Snowman inventors behind Alto’s Adventure.

DrinkBox Studios Makers of Guacamelee!, with rich visual design and humor.

Uken Games With a strong focus on social and interactive mobile titles.

These enterprises stand out for fluid robustness and flawless iOS integration.

Montreal’s Creative Game Development Ecosystem

Montreal is frequently called the" Hollywood of videotape games." Ubisoft has a major mecca then, but lower workrooms like Double Stallion and Sabotage Studio also shine. The megacity's unique mix of French faculty and tech savviness fosters originality in mobile game development.

Vancouver’s Tech- Driven Gaming Studios

Vancouver combines Silicon Valley tech with West Coast creativity. Kabam Games and A Allowing Ham lead the pack, offering multiplayer- centric games with stunning illustrations and dynamic updates. Their use of real- time analytics ensures players stay engaged.

Indie vs Enterprise- Level Studios What to Choose?

Choosing between an indie and a large plant depends on your design needs. Indies frequently offer inflexibility, invention, and cost- effectiveness. Enterprise workrooms bring coffers, scalability, and proven processes. It’s a balance of vision and budget.

Assessing Game Development Portfolios

Always examine a plant’s history systems. Look for variety, polish, and stoner retention. Great portfolios tell a story of elaboration, rigidity, and harmonious quality. stoner reviews and app store conditions also reveal performance in the wild.

Understanding the Cost of Game Development in Canada

Costs vary extensively. A simple 2D game may bring around$ 20,000 to$ 40,000. High- end 3D or multiplayer gests can exceed$ 500,000. Canadian companies frequently strike a balance between affordability and ultraexpensive affair.

Technology Stack Used by Canadian Developers

Canadian inventors are fluent in Unity, Unreal Engine, C#, Swift, Kotlin, and Flutter. Their structure generally includes AWS or Firebase for scalable pall services. This robust mound ensures speed, security, and performance.

Uniting Across Borders The Saudi and Kuwait Connection

As the Middle East continues investing in tech and gaming, Canadian workrooms are getting sought- after mates. Cross-border collaboration ensures global quality fused with original artistic flavors especially for Arabic- centric mobile gests .

Leading Mobile operation development company in Saudi

Saudi Arabia’s tech smash has produced astral enterprises like

Hyperlink Info System Offers custom mobile game and app development.

Tech Gropse Specializes in gaming apps and blockchain- grounded platforms.

A great mobile application development company in Saudi brings in indigenous understanding with global norms.

Top Mobile operation development company in Kuwait

Kuwait’s growing digital geography features

Emstell Technology Consulting Known for Android/ iOS gaming apps.

Chrisans results Offers UI-rich mobile games acclimatized to Gulf cult.

Each mobile application development company in Kuwait brings artistic finesse and tech proficiency.

Canadian Workrooms Partnering with Middle Eastern guests

numerous Canadian companies have now developed white- marker or co-branded games for Middle Eastern requests. This includes language localization, gamification for education, and entertainment apps acclimatized for Gulf youth.

Conclusion Where Innovation Meets Imagination

From the bustling workrooms of Toronto to the avant- garde labs of Montreal, Canada offers an ideal terrain for mobile game invention. Whether you are looking for Android game development companies, or seeking a mobile operation development company in Saudi or Kuwait, partnering with Canadian enterprises guarantees access to world- class gift, creativity, and technology.

#android game #application development #ios app development

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pritishkumar-halder · 7 months ago

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Exploring the Growth of Tech Startups in Canada: A Path to Innovation and Success

Tech startups in Canada are transforming industries with cutting-edge innovations and a robust entrepreneurial spirit. The Canadian tech ecosystem is rapidly growing, fueled by access to world-class talent, government support, and a thriving investor landscape. For aspiring entrepreneurs, launching a tech startup in Canada offers significant opportunities for growth and global expansion.

The country’s commitment to fostering technology and innovation is evident in the number of initiatives and funding opportunities available to support tech startups. From Silicon Valley-style hubs in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal to government-backed programs, the support infrastructure is exceptional. With a focus on AI, cybersecurity, clean tech, and software development, Canadian tech startups are setting the stage for groundbreaking advancements.

Key to the success of Canadian tech startups is the strong collaboration between private enterprises, academic institutions, and innovation centres. With its diverse and skilled workforce, Canada is quickly becoming a top destination for tech entrepreneurs seeking to turn their ideas into reality.

Whether you’re launching your own tech startup or looking to invest in one, Canada provides an ideal environment to scale innovative ideas and make a global impact. Tech entrepreneurship in Canada is not just about developing technology—it’s about shaping the future.

#Tech Startup in Canada #Canadian Tech Startups #Tech Entrepreneurs Canada #Launching a Tech Startup #Canadian Innovation #Tech Ecosystem Canada #Tech Business Canada #Startups in Canada

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mariacallous · 3 months ago

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Last week, Canadian prime minister Mark Carney declared that the “old relationship” his country had with the United States was “over,” and it’s “clear the US is no longer a reliable partner.” Carney’s comments came after the US announced sweeping new tariffs on Canada and President Donald Trump spent months making inflammatory comments that have alarmed Canada’s leaders, including suggestions that the country would be “better off” if it was annexed by the US. Tensions finally boiled over last Wednesday when Trump said he will impose 25 percent tariffs on foreign-made cars, a move that could have a major negative economic impact on Canada—once one of America’s staunchest allies.

Among Canadians in Silicon Valley, the rift between the two nations is sparking a new kind of national pride, as well as a lot of uncertainty. For now, at least, Trump’s tariffs on Canada don’t extend to software, so the flow of digital goods and services between the two countries remains mostly uninterrupted. But the chaos has prompted some prominent founders and investors to urge young Canadians to build companies at home and strengthen the local tech ecosystem, while Canadian tech companies with large operations in the US are wondering if they need to change strategies, or even headquarters.

“I think the biggest thing happening right now is that Canadian founders are having to adjust to a new reality in which two fundamental assumptions we've taken for granted for decades can no longer be counted on,” says Chris Neumann, a Vancouver-based partner at Panache Ventures and former startup founder. “Namely, that the US is a reliable trading partner and that the US and Canada have a stable, mutually beneficial free-trade agreement."

At the same time, some Canadians tell WIRED that the social and financial capital of Silicon Valley remain huge draws for tech workers. Many ambitious entrepreneurs would still jump at the chance to join the Y Combinator tech accelerator in the US, for example, “whether they’re coming from Canada or coming from Argentina,” says Michael Buhr, the executive director of C100, a nonprofit networking group for Canadians in Silicon Valley.

“I like to joke that you can’t put a tariff on talent,” Brandon Waselnuk, an executive at the documentation app Mintlify, said at an event in California last week.

Waselnuk is originally from Ottawa but now lives and works in San Francisco. Back in January, he put out a call on social media to find other Canadians in tech who, like him, might be feeling unsettled by rising tensions between the US and their home country. A number of Canadians got in touch, and Waselnuk began organizing local events for what he dubbed the “Maple Syrup Gang.” The first outing was a city rucking and chocolate tasting excursion co-led by his wife.

Waselnuk hosted last week’s gathering at the sleek offices of Bain Capital in downtown San Francisco. Around 60 entrepreneurs and venture capitalists from Canada gathered to watch startup demos while noshing on pizza and poutine. Greeting people near the entrance, Waselnuk appeared quintessentially Canadian, both in terms of affability and attire. He wore a hat emblazoned with what he explained was the logo for Trans Canada Trail. His red maple-leaf T-shirt, however, required no explaining.

“Some of the Canadians in the group have been asking, ‘Should we relocate our office? Should we change our approach?’” Waselnuk said. “But we don’t really know what’s going to happen. If anything, America doesn’t know either. Canadians don’t want these problems. We just want to get along.”

Alysaa Co, a principal at Bain Capital Ventures and fellow Canadian, agreed. She noted that one of Bain’s portfolio companies, a Toronto-based fintech startup, has been serving US-based small businesses since its inception. Ideally, Co said, the startup won’t have to rethink that strategy.

Some in the Maple Syrup Gang poked fun at the US and American culture. One entrepreneur, who showed off an AI-powered tool for helping kids learn math, asked the crowd to roast him and provide brutally honest feedback on his app. “Pretend like you’re from Texas. Or pretend you’re Trump,” he said.

Canadian pride and nationalist sentiment have been on the rise since Trump began threatening America’s northern neighbor and took a hard line on trade. The percentage of Canadians who say they’re “very proud” of their country jumped significantly in February from just a couple months prior, according to data analysis from the Angus Reid Institute, a Canadian nonprofit research organization. As Canada gears up for national elections in a few weeks, the two major political parties are emphasizing the importance of “Canada First” and defending national sovereignty. Carney’s Liberal Party, which was sinking in the polls before Trump’s rhetoric toward Canada turned dark, has seen its popularity surge as the prime minister, a former banker, positioned himself as the best candidate to protect Canada’s economy.

This growing sense of Canadian national pride has trickled into the tech sector, too, where some investors and startup founders view the divisiveness between the US and Canada as an opportunity to boost their country’s productivity and self-reliance. A group of Canadian tech entrepreneurs, including executives from Shopify and Cohere, recently spun up a promotional campaign called Build Canada with the goal of influencing policy on technology, tax reform, and immigration. An article in the Canadian blog Betakit reported that these tech leaders have been “frustrated by the Liberal government and the country’s long-standing productivity woes.”

“In hindsight we will look at these US tariffs as an important wake-up call for [Canada],” Boris Wertz, founder of Vancouver-based Version One ventures and a former board partner at Andreessen Horowitz, said on X in early February. Canada should diversify its international trading partners away from the US, deregulate inter-provincial trade, and double down on energy infrastructure, Wertz wrote. He also included “border security/tough on crime” as an agenda item.

Canada has been a significant source of tech talent in Silicon Valley since the North American Free Trade Agreement was put in place in 1994, which included a program granting an unlimited number of visas for skilled professionals looking to move from Canada or Mexico to the US. (NAFTA was replaced by the United States-Mexico-Canada agreement, or USMCA, in 2020.) Canadians who work in tech can quickly rattle off the names of unicorn founders and other notable figures who are originally from their home country, including Uber cofounder Garrett Camp, Notion cofounder Ivan Zhao, Cloudflare cofounder Michelle Zatlyn, and Pebble creator Eric Migicovsky—not to mention the thousands of Canadian engineers who toil away on products behind the scenes.

But Canadians have also lamented the brain drain to the Valley and the lost opportunities it represents for Canada’s growth. Amid the current artificial intelligence boom that has prompted another wave of talented engineers to flock to the US, Canada’s governments and industry leaders “should be addressing this problem with the urgency of a five-alarm fire,” software developer Bilal Akhtar argued in an op-ed in the Toronto Star last year.

“Some of the most notable academicians in the fields of AI and machine learning, such as Geoffrey Hinton and Ilya Sutskever, hail from the University of Toronto,” Akhtar wrote. “We’ve just failed to build a big enough ecosystem around any of that.”

Canada’s talent bleed may be stanched slightly by rising tensions with the US, which have created, in some cases, literal barriers to entry that were once unimaginable between friendly neighbors. Security concerns about traveling across the southern border increased in Canada after the story of a Canadian woman who was detained for two weeks by US immigration authorities went viral earlier this month. Flight bookings to the US during the upcoming summer travel season have plummeted.

One Canadian attendee at the Maple Syrup Gang event told WIRED he’s currently interning at an American electric car company and had never been to the United States before taking the gig. He now wants to stay and find a full-time job in Silicon Valley, but his father already told him he wouldn’t visit him if he remained in the US.

Buhr, who runs the C100 networking group for Canadians in Silicon Valley, says there are critical cultural differences between the two tech ecosystems that have hindered Canada. The country has “one unicorn a decade, and the US has 10 unicorns a year,” Buhr says, citing ecommerce platform Shopify as Canada’s current shining tech star. (Almost everyone cites Shopify as Canada’s shining tech star.)

He pointed to Silicon Valley’s well-known flywheel effect, where if a tech worker is extremely successful and becomes wealthy, they’ll invest money back into the ecosystem and create new opportunities for others. “That flywheel does not exist in Canada, and if it does, it’s on a 10-year cycle,” he says.

Buhr adds that he wants to help his fellow Canadians increase their appetite for risk. “We need to raise the hubris of Canadian entrepreneurs a little bit, and be more American in that sense, so that they’re saying ‘I can change the world,’ and not, ‘I can buy a cottage a year from now.’” As the relationship between the US and Canada goes through a radical transformation, the world those entrepreneurs are seeking to change could soon look very different.

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fyntix · 28 days ago

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Understanding Average Home Prices in Major Canadian Cities

Canada's Housing Market Snapshot

Housing prices across Canada vary drastically from coast to coast. From bustling metropolises to serene mid-sized towns, each city tells a unique story when it comes to real estate trends. Understanding these price differences isn't just about numbers; it's about grasping lifestyle, infrastructure, economic activity, and local demand.

Why Home Prices Vary So Widely

Real estate markets are highly localized. Factors like employment rates, migration trends, development projects, and even weather patterns can influence the cost of a home. Cities with strong job markets and limited housing supply often command higher prices.

Toronto: Canada's Real Estate Titan

Toronto consistently tops the charts for the highest average home prices in Canada. As of early 2025, the average home hovers around $1.1 million. High immigration rates, a dense urban population, and booming tech and finance sectors keep the demand exceptionally strong.

Vancouver: Sky-High on the West Coast

Vancouver is renowned for its natural beauty and notoriously expensive real estate. The average home price floats near $1.2 million. Limited land availability, foreign investment, and a strong local economy contribute to Vancouver's premium market.

Montreal: Affordable Urban Living

Compared to Toronto and Vancouver, Montreal offers a breath of fresh air in affordability. Average home prices sit around $550,000. A vibrant cultural scene, bilingual charm, and steady population growth attract both locals and investors.

Calgary: Recovery and Opportunity

Calgary, once hit hard by oil downturns, is making a slow but steady comeback. Homes average around $530,000. Its affordability, combined with scenic beauty and lower property taxes, make it attractive for first-time buyers.

Edmonton: Value in Alberta's Capital

With an average home price of $430,000, Edmonton offers serious value. The city benefits from government employment, a diverse economy, and a growing tech ecosystem.

Ottawa: Government Stability and Growth

Canada's capital is more than just politics. Ottawa boasts an average home price of about $710,000. Steady employment, a flourishing tech industry, and bilingual appeal drive interest here.

Winnipeg: Quietly Climbing

Winnipeg has long been one of Canada's most affordable cities, but prices are creeping up. The current average is around $390,000. This is still quite low by national standards, making it a haven for budget-conscious buyers.

Halifax: East Coast Emergence

Halifax has seen a renaissance in recent years. With remote work enabling lifestyle shifts, average home prices have risen to roughly $480,000. Proximity to the ocean, lower density, and a growing startup scene are driving forces.

Quebec City: Old-World Charm, New-Age Prices

A historical gem, Quebec City offers unique architecture and lifestyle. Average home prices remain accessible at about $400,000. It appeals to retirees, francophiles, and those seeking European ambiance without the overseas move.

Hamilton: The Toronto Alternative

Often seen as a spillover market from Toronto, Hamilton has carved out its own identity. Average home prices are around $760,000. Young families and creatives are flocking here, drawn by slightly lower costs and cultural buzz.

Victoria: Island Dreams with a Price Tag

Victoria, perched on Vancouver Island, isn't cheap. The average price is about $880,000. Its peaceful pace, ocean views, and warm microclimate attract a steady stream of retirees and remote workers.

Saskatoon: Prairie Pricing

Saskatoon remains one of the most affordable urban centres in Canada. Homes here average around $370,000. Strong community vibes, agriculture, and innovation hubs keep it quietly appealing.

Regina: Under-the-Radar Value

Regina mirrors Saskatoon's affordability, with home prices near $360,000. While often overlooked, it's home to government jobs, universities, and a relaxed pace of life.

St. John's: Rugged and Affordable

Newfoundland's capital keeps real estate costs reasonable, with homes averaging $340,000. The rugged coastal setting and tight-knit community offer a unique lifestyle.

Kelowna: Wine Country Wonders

Kelowna's average price has surged past $850,000. The region's wine industry, warm summers, and lakefront properties have turned it into a luxury hotspot.

London: Southwestern Sensibility

London, Ontario offers a balance of city life and suburban calm. With average home prices near $670,000, it's becoming popular among Toronto ex-pats and university-goers.

Kitchener-Waterloo: Tech-Driven Demand

This tech corridor commands average home prices around $720,000. As a hub for startups and innovation, demand remains strong among young professionals.

Windsor: Border Town Benefits

Windsor’s affordability stands out, with homes averaging $430,000. Proximity to Detroit, a growing manufacturing sector, and plans for a new hospital elevate its future prospects.

Thunder Bay: Affordable Northern Escape

For those seeking solitude and affordability, Thunder Bay delivers. Average home prices rest near $330,000. The great outdoors is just outside your window.

Conclusion: Finding Your Fit in Canada’s Housing Market

Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a hopeful first-time buyer, understanding the varied landscape of Canadian home prices is crucial. From Victoria’s serene coastlines to Quebec’s historic quarters, there’s a destination and price point for everyone.

For those thinking of diving into this dynamic industry, this guide on how to become a real estate agent in Canada can be your first step toward turning market knowledge into a rewarding career.

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digitalmore · 28 days ago

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#IFTTT #Digital More

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govindhtech · 28 days ago

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PINQ2 & Distriq join To Advance Quantum Computing in Canada

The Quantum Leap: Quebec's Quantum Technology Strategy. The main quantum organisations in Quebec, PINQ2 and Distriq, have formed a strategic cooperation to advance quantum technology acceptance and commercialisation in Canada and Quebec. This boosts Canada's quantum technology leadership.

Distriq-PINQ2 Partnership

Distriq and PINQ2 Benefit from Partnership:

Distriq, Sherbrooke's Quantum Innovation Zone, and PINQ2, Canada's first IBM Quantum System One, are using their advantages to bridge infrastructure, industrial deployment, and research. This relationship helps enterprises of all sizes by providing advanced toolkits like Qiskit SDK v2.0, shared access to classical and quantum computing platforms, and guidance for integrating quantum technologies into AI and high-performance computing workflows.

Marion Urso, a partnership spokeswoman, said enrolling more organisations, initiating trial activities, and creating infrastructure should deliver verifiable results in 12-18 months. She said PINQ2 works with IBM and other non-Quebec corporations.

Nord Quantique Improves Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computing:

This cooperation is helping Sherbrooke startup Nord Quantique enhance quantum computing. After emerging from stealth status in 2022, the company obtained CAD $9.5 million in seed funding from Paris-based Quantisation VC and BDC Capital's Deep Tech Venture Fund, with Real Ventures participating.

Nord Quantique is developing hardware to accelerate the transition to fault-tolerant quantum computing. The company is reinventing computers from the ground up using Canadian quantum technology and semiconductor chip manufacturing skills to reduce error events on each qubit.

Sherbrooke Quantum Innovation Centre

Sherbrooke is a global quantum technology hub because to projects like the Distriq Quantum Innovation Zone, which promotes research and entrepreneurship. The 45-year-old Quantum Institute's famous academics and students live in the city. This ecosystem attracts international companies like Quandela and Pasqal, helping the community thrive.

The Sherbrooke quantum industry has received almost $8 million from the federal government, including a $1.8 million loan for Nord Quantique and a $5.2-million grant for Distriq.

About Distriq

Distriq—the Quantum Innovation Zone—is a vital quantum research and technology facility in Sherbrooke, Quebec. Distriq, an innovation accelerator founded in 2022, supports researchers, businesspeople, and industry leaders to speed quantum technology development and commercialisation by providing infrastructure.

Ecosystem, Mission

The purpose of Distriq is to foster collaboration between academic research and industrial use. Distriq uses research, education, entrepreneurship, and industry to commercialise quantum ideas. The organisation connects entrepreneurs with promising quantum technologies and assists quantum companies from inception to industrial implementation.

Resources and Facilities

The infrastructure of Distriq includes DevTeQ, a shared laboratory with cutting-edge quantum research and development technology. Facilities include clean rooms, cryogenic refrigerators, quantum computers, and other experimentation and development equipment. Espace Quantique 1 also has over 50,000 square feet of configurable office space, conference rooms, coworking spaces, and technical expert services to foster creativity and collaboration.

Partnering strategically

Distriq collaborates with esteemed institutions including 3iT, Institut Quantique, and Université de Sherbrooke. These collaborations boost the integrated innovation chain by helping enterprises in AI, quantum, and creative manufacturing.

Distriq partnered with PINQ2 in 2025 to promote quantum technology adoption and commercialisation in Quebec and Canada. This agreement will give firms access to cutting-edge toolkits like Qiskit SDK v2.0, quantum computing platforms, and instructions for integrating quantum technology into present operations.

Assistance from the government

Given Distriq's relevance in quantum, the Canadian government has committed over $8 million in Sherbrooke's quantum environment. Distriq received a non-repayable $5.2 million grant to buy cutting-edge DevTeQ equipment to aid quantum research and development.

In conclusion

Quebec's commitment to quantum technology is seen in the relationship between PINQ² and Distriq and Nord Quantique's advancements. These efforts aim to make Canada a worldwide quantum power and accelerate quantum technology implementation.

#PINQ2 #DistriqandPINQ2 #Distriq #PINQ2andDistriq #quantumtechnologies #DistriqQuantum #QuebecandCanada #technology #technews #technologynews #news #govindhtech

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flutterdevs · 1 month ago

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Mobile App Development in Canada: Market Size, Trends, and Outsourcing Insights

Canada’s tech landscape has seen rapid growth in recent years, and one of the brightest areas of innovation is mobile app development. With smartphone penetration exceeding 90% and a tech-savvy population, Canada has become a hub for both local app development and outsourced services from global companies. This blog dives into the current state of mobile app development in Canada, exploring market size, trends, and outsourcing dynamics.

Market Size & Growth

The Canadian app development market is valued at over CAD 2.5 billion in 2024, with projections estimating it to cross CAD 3.1 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7-9%.

Key Drivers:

Increasing demand for mobile-first experiences in retail, banking, and healthcare.

Growth in fintech, eCommerce, on-demand services, and enterprise mobility solutions.

The rise of startups and SMEs seeking affordable, scalable digital products.

Who’s Building Apps in Canada?

The Canadian app development ecosystem is a mix of:

Homegrown Development Firms: Companies like MindSea, Clearbridge Mobile, and Appstudio cater to clients both local and international.

Enterprise Teams: Major players like Shopify, RBC, and Air Canada have in-house mobile teams.

Freelancers & Small Studios: Supporting the startup and small business segment.

Popular Industries for Mobile Apps

Industry

Use Cases

Retail & eCommerce

Shopping apps, loyalty programs, AR try-ons

Finance & Banking

Mobile banking, personal finance apps

Healthcare

Telehealth, appointment booking, e-records

Transportation

Ride-sharing, logistics, public transit

Media & Entertainment

Streaming, news apps, gaming

Canada as an Outsourcing Destination

Canada is not just developing for itself—it’s also a top destination for outsourced app development, especially from the U.S., UK, and Europe.

Why companies outsource to Canada:

Time zone overlap with North America.

Highly skilled talent from universities like Waterloo, UBC, and McGill.

Bilingual capabilities (English and French).

Cultural alignment and business-friendly regulations.

Cost advantage compared to U.S. or Western Europe (though higher than Eastern Europe or Asia).

Trends Shaping Mobile App Development in Canada

1. AI-Powered Apps

From predictive text to personalized eCommerce recommendations, Canadian developers are integrating AI and ML into everyday apps.

2. 5G and Real-Time Features

The expansion of 5G networks is enabling richer app experiences—like augmented reality, low-latency gaming, and real-time tracking.

3. Cross-Platform Development

Flutter and React Native are being widely adopted to reduce costs and launch across Android and iOS faster.

4. Focus on Privacy & Compliance

With GDPR, PIPEDA, and data sovereignty concerns, Canadian firms emphasize secure and privacy-conscious app development.

5. Indigenous Tech Inclusion

There’s a growing interest in apps serving or built by Indigenous communities, focused on language preservation, health, and education.

Cost of Mobile App Development in Canada

App Type

Estimated Cost Range

Basic App

CAD 20,000 – 50,000

Mid-Level App

CAD 50,000 – 100,000

Complex App (AI, AR, etc.)

CAD 100,000+

Note: Prices vary based on complexity, platform, and features.

Read: Top Mobile App Development Companies in Toronto Canada

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a startup founder in Toronto or a U.S. company looking for a nearshore partner, Canada offers a dynamic and growing mobile app development ecosystem. With top-tier talent, strong infrastructure, and a reputation for quality, the country continues to attract interest both as a tech innovator and as a strategic outsourcing hub.

Need a development partner?

Hire Andriod develpers

Hire iOS developers

🔗 Related Reading

Top Mobile App Development Companies in Dubai, UAE

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