Accelerating commercialization and adoption of AI and quantum technologies in British Columbia

The Government of Canada has allocated over $17.3 million to support eight businesses in British Columbia’s tech sector, focusing on artificial intelligence and quantum technology. The funding, announced by Minister Gregor Robertson, will help companies scale operations, commercialize innovations, and compete globally amid economic uncertainty. Robertson highlighted the investments as a way to anchor cutting-edge technology development in Canada while fostering resilience in domestic industries. One key recipient is Human in Motion Robotics (HMR), a Vancouver-based firm developing XoMotion, a wearable robotic system for mobility-impaired individuals. HMR will receive $3 million to integrate AI into its exoskeleton technology, expand manufacturing beyond clinical settings, and file for intellectual property protection. The investment aims to improve outcomes for people with spinal cord injuries and neurological conditions while creating skilled jobs in B.C. Other beneficiaries include Dream Photonics, a semiconductor company receiving over $1.1 million to establish pilot manufacturing of optical interconnects for AI and quantum chips. This project will bolster Canada’s quantum supply chain and support high-skilled employment in the province. The funding coincides with B.C.’s preparation to host the second year of Web Summit Vancouver, a global technology conference. The Government of Canada is investing an additional $6.6 million through Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan) to connect Canadian tech firms with international opportunities at the event. The initiative seeks to drive business growth, showcase Canadian innovation, and strengthen the province’s position as a tech leader. Robertson emphasized that the investments will help entrepreneurs transform ideas into market-ready solutions, reinforcing Canada’s competitive edge in AI and quantum technologies. Co-CEOs Siamak Arzanpour and Edward Park of HMR stated the funding will accelerate their vision of integrating AI into wearable robots for everyday use, positioning Canada as a global leader in mobility-enabling robotics.