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Hannover Messe 2025 was an exciting experience. As the world’s largest and most influential industrial technology trade show, it provided a perfect platform to showcase the cutting-edge work happening within Canada’s tech ecosystem. This year was especially meaningful, with Canada as the official Partner Country, which brought a strong delegation of over 1,800 Canadians to the show, a powerful demonstration of our commitment to global collaboration and innovation. It was more than just a trade show; it was a journey filled with pivotal connections, unexpected discoveries, and a renewed sense of what Canadian innovation can achieve on the global stage.
The opening ceremony set the tone for the week, with speeches emphasizing the importance of geopolitical unity during these uncertain times. The clear message was one of solidarity between the EU and Canada, marking the beginning of a week focused on collaboration and innovation.
We kicked off the week by supporting the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association on Project Arrow 2.0, bold, all-Canadian, zero-emissions concept vehicle that brings together the best of Canada’s automotive, academic, and tech sectors. The room was filled with dynamic conversations about the future of automotive technology and the possibilities of collaboration. Project Arrow is a true showcase of what’s possible when innovation from our academic institutions meets cutting-edge industry expertise. Our momentum continued as we connected with Ontario Tech University, exploring how their research could support and propel our Founders' ambitions. We also met with Mayor David West from Richmond Hill, who expressed a strong interest in national sandbox initiatives, creating new opportunities for local collaborations.
A major highlight was a roundtable discussion with Minister Victor Fedeli, where we addressed the challenges our Founders face, particularly around tariffs and business operations. Myself and Avinash participated in the discussion, alongside 10 other leaders representing tech and manufacturing companies. Avinash shared an important message that Ontario and Canada urgently needs a national semiconductor strategy and highlighted the important role Canada can play in the global semiconductor value chain. We don’t need to invest billions in traditional fabs to make an impact; Canada has the expertise to lead in areas like chip design, advanced packaging, and IP development, reinforcing our competitive advantage through innovation. The conversation underscored the critical need to position Canada as a leader in semiconductor innovation, without relying on traditional fabs.
A huge thank you to NGen for their incredible work organizing the Canadian delegation at Hannover Messe 2025, with a special shoutout to Alyssa Kertesz and Frank Defalco for their leadership and support throughout the week. We’re also grateful to Arman Giloyan from the Province of Ontario for co-exhibiting with us and helping amplify our presence. And a big thank you to York Region for including ventureLAB as part of the regional delegation. We truly appreciated the collaboration and support from Katie McGinn, Gordon Scheel, and Robert Unterman. It was a true Team Canada effort!
Our Founders were front and center throughout the event. Duane Booth from Longan Vision, a ventureLAB Hardware Catalyst Initiative company, made valuable connections with European firefighting departments to showcase their AI technology. Meanwhile, Cyberworks Robotics, a ventureLAB Accelerate AI company, made its presence felt by participating in roundtable discussions and showcasing their innovations while co-exhibiting with the Province of Ontario. It’s always an exciting and proud moment for us to see our founders succeeding and participating in global events like this.
Of course, it wasn’t all business. There were unforgettable moments, like navigating the bustling streets of Hannover with Avinash Persaud, which led to a few humorous Uber rides down the Autobahn. And who could forget stumbling upon a secret Canadian-themed speakeasy? Hidden within Hannover Messe, the speakeasy was a tribute to Canadian culture, with red and black plaid, raccoons, Crown Royal, Beaver Tails, and more. It was the perfect spot to relax and connect.
By the end of the week, it was clear: Canada’s role in global innovation is only growing stronger, and the future of tech will be shaped through collaboration. A week wasn’t enough and I hope to be back soon!!
Wrapping up in Hannover, where even the Autobahn can’t keep up with the pace of Canadian innovation.
- Sophia
