In 2025, Waterloo EDC published 75 articles. We covered industry news in quantum technology, nuclear energy, battery innovation and more. We wrote about international and local expansions, talent wins and Canada’s (continuously evolving) relationship with our neighbour to the south, the United States.
While we’ve already shared the 5 biggest news stories that captured widespread attention in 2025, we’ve decided to pull together a list of the top original articles we wrote, too. Our editorial content explores everything relevant to foreign direct investment, business expansion and the Waterloo region.
Here are our 10 best original articles of 2025:
1. BWXT: Generating the future of nuclear
Nuclear became a transformational force in the energy landscape in 2025, so it’s no surprise that our profile on BWX Technologies, Inc. (BWXT) emerged as one of our high-impact articles.
BWXT has been a key player in Ontario’s clean energy industry for more than a century. Headquartered in Cambridge, BWXT Canada plays a pivotal role in strengthening the nuclear industry (within the cleantech sector) on a municipal, national and global scale. Our article covers the company’s growth and deepening roots in our community.
Find out how BWXT is powering the next generation of energy with nuclear innovation. Or, want to know more about nuclear in Waterloo region? Read our round-up.
2. The Toronto-Waterloo Corridor: A powerful tech cluster
If you’re a tech company, finding—and keeping—good talent is likely one of your primary concerns. Sourcing data on tech talent markets is one of the best ways to identify where top talent is choosing to live and work.
CBRE’s eminent Scoring Tech Talent Report does exactly that, so when Waterloo region was ranked #7 overall, it was one of the biggest stories from 2025. Toronto was ranked #3. That’s an incredibly strong showing for two cities within 65mi/100km of one another—the only cities in close proximity to each other in the top-25, in fact.
That’s why we decided to write about the Toronto-Waterloo Corridor, an incredible cluster that has it all: a massive tech workforce, strong growth and a high concentration of talent. Find out how the Toronto-Waterloo Corridor builds tech talent resiliency and vitality year after year.
3. Quantum leadership: Building global impact
The opportunities in quantum technologies are infinite. Quantum is the next big advantage for technology and business, with applications in fintech, health innovation, automation and more.
With two of the world’s largest quantum and theoretical research centres (Perimeter Institute and the Institute for Quantum Computing), the Waterloo community leads in the quantum space. Waterloo—and Canada—are well-equipped to turn our expertise into a global advantage. And there’s no one better to explain how than Lisa Lambert, CEO of Quantum Industry Canada. We were fortunate enough to speak with Lambert and ask her some questions about the global quantum race and Canada’s chances of success.
Here are the key takeaways from our conversation with Lambert.
4. OBEC: Accelerating battery innovation
In addition to nuclear power, battery innovation is generating the future of clean energy. In 2025, we reported that innovative battery solutions start in Waterloo region.
The Ontario Battery & Electrochemistry Centre (OBEC), located at the University of Waterloo, is a one-of-its-kind battery research hub. The centre provides the infrastructure and expertise needed to prototype and scale new battery solutions.
Waterloo is the ideal location for OBEC to operate. We have a deep history of battery research expertise, as well as IP-friendly frameworks. Our region has a reputation for R&D excellence, since academic institutions frequently collaborate with important industry players. OBEC builds on these strengths, equipping researchers and business leaders alike to drive technological breakthroughs and economic impact in industries like EV and clean energy.
Read more about OBEC’s commitment to developing cleaner and more sustainable energy technologies.
5. Expansion Readiness Quiz: Assessing your expansion strategy
Who doesn’t love a test? OK, we’re kidding, but this isn’t like the pop quiz that appeared on your desk first thing on Monday morning in high school.
Last year, we developed a quiz that helps business leaders assess their level of preparedness for international expansion. Expanding your business can open new opportunities and strengthen your market position. But how do you know if you’re ready for it?
With our quiz, you’ll gain insights into your company’s strengths, potential gaps and next steps in your expansion journey. Discover if your business is ready to go global by taking our test.
6. Tech Data Points: Comparing Waterloo to tech markets
Let’s say you’ve decided to go global. How do you decide which tech market is right for your business? Which city will best support your success?
Comparative data can help guide your decision. In our Tech Data Points series, we compare North American tech cities, examining factors such as tech talent concentration, population growth, operating costs, payroll taxes and more.
Check out our comparisons with Silicon Valley, New York City, Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Austin, Columbus, Pittsburgh and Seattle.
7. Canada’s business advantages: Accessing talent in a stable economy
Canada’s availability of global talent, cost advantages and stable operating environment make for good business. Our proximity to the United States only accentuates Canada’s mild-mannered (and frankly, boring) business landscape. And boring is good for business.
8. Free trade: Prioritizing economic growth
Manufacturers need free trade. By locating in a country with a strong network of international trade agreements, you get preferential market access, supply chain efficiency and improved competitiveness.
If you’re a manufacturer, Canada has what you’re looking for. Our country is one of the loudest proponents of building international relationships via trade. Our article explains why trade-exposed companies, like manufacturing enterprises, should consider Canada. From this country, you have access to the United States, the EU, the United Kingdom, Japan and more.
Discover how Canada supports free trade and promotes international business relationships.
9. CHARGING AHEAD: Exploring the future of automotive
Ever since Donald Trump announced widespread tariffs that impact Canada’s automotive industry, the sector has faced countless challenges.
Waterloo EDC hosted a symposium called CHARGING AHEAD that brought together industry experts, renowned economists and automotive business leaders. The speakers and attendees were tasked with tackling the economic, policy and investment challenges shaping the future of mobility in Ontario and beyond.
If you missed the event, don’t fret. We wrote a summary of the symposium. Access our comprehensive report with the key highlights here.
10. Waterloo’s evolution: Spotlighting the big changes
This one really speaks for itself. Over the last 10 years, Waterloo has evolved into a thriving hub for economic investment and a community of strong business leaders and innovative changemakers. From Google and Toyota’s massive expansions to the introduction of the ION Light Rail Transit system, we shone a spotlight on the 10 big ways Waterloo changed in the last 10 years.
Take a walk down memory lane, through the big moments that have shaped Waterloo’s recent success.
Key Takeaways
- Waterloo region emerged as a leader in the nuclear, battery and quantum sectors last year
- Canada is tackling tariff headwinds head-on, countering global economic uncertainty by promoting free trade agreements, supporting immigration programs and maintaining stability in business environments
- Data can help your company decide which location is the best for your expansion, so make use of Waterloo EDC’s Tech Data Book and Expansion Readiness Quiz, as well as CBRE’s Scoring Tech Talent Report
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