This February presented research breakthroughs, federal and provincial funding, cleantech advancements and defence developments. The achievements in Waterloo are continuing to strengthen its ecosystem of innovation.
Here are the top stories from February 2026.
Canada’s defence plan signals long-term investment opportunities
Canada has unveiled its first-ever Defence Industrial Strategy, a $6.6 billion five-year plan to reshape how Canada builds, buys and exports military technology. The goals include 125,000 new jobs, a 50% increase in defence exports and increasing homegrown defence procurement to 70% of total spending. This means significant opportunities for ongoing business for international companies growing in Canada
Learn more with our explainer.
OVIN funding new Regional Technology Development Site in Waterloo
The Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) has announced nearly $70 million in funding to establish nine Regional Technology Development Sites (RTDS) to connect automotive researchers, incubators, accelerators and industry partners. The Waterloo site will be housed at Catalyst 137 in Kitchener and will focus on vehicle-to-everything and infrastructure-to-everything technologies.
Learn more about the new investment from OVIN.
Canada’s automotive strategy signals new investment era
Canada’s new federal auto strategy is designed to attract investment and help companies grow in advanced vehicle production. The main goal is to make the sector more resilient, diversified competitive and future-ready. Rather than relying on prescriptive mandates, the policy framework focuses on outcomes that matter to businesses and investors, reducing regulatory uncertainty and orienting incentives toward production, innovation and investment.
Learn more about the Government of Canada’s new auto strategy.
University of Waterloo researchers drive cancer treatment innovation
University of Waterloo researchers are breaking new ground in cancer treatment by engineering bacteria that can enter solid tumours and consume them from the inside out. The team designed a system that could one day destroy tumours without harming healthy tissue. This innovative and pioneering work reflects how Waterloo is transforming research into real world solutions.
Check out the full story from University of Waterloo News.
Global recognition for Waterloo’s emerging concussion testing innovator
HeadFirst, a startup emerging from the University of Waterloo, is gaining international attention for its rapid saliva-based concussion test designed to provide objective results in minutes on the sidelines.
Read the full story in the Waterloo Region Record.
$7.5 million seed funding helps Waterloo agritech startup grow
Waterloo-based Upside Robotics has secured $7.5M in funding to accelerate its work on autonomous farming robots that deliver nutrients precisely where crops need them. The funding will help the Velocity-based company expand its technology that reduces waste and improves soil health, highlighting how Waterloo’s robotics ecosystem combines tech and manufacturing to find solutions to pressing climate issues.
Read the full story from University of Waterloo News.
Researchers are turning plastic into vinegar
University of Waterloo researchers are turning plastic waste into vinegar using a new process that breaks down tough polymers into acetic acid in a single step. This offers a promising way to reduce plastic pollution. This innovation highlights Waterloo’s leadership in cleantech research. Waterloo is working towards unlocking new solutions for global environmental challenges.
Check out the full story from University of Waterloo News.
These February highlights demonstrate Waterloo’s leadership in innovation, research and business growth. From cutting-edge technologies to strategic investments, the region continues to offer opportunities for international companies looking to expand.