Springtime in Canada brings many things – shockingly cold and pleasantly warm weather, rain, snow and sunshine and, of course, the explosion of new growth that lets you know brighter days are ahead. The news from Waterloo in May was just as varied and just as optimistic.
From responsible, low-carbon AI systems and connected infrastructure to quantum breakthroughs and international recognition in femtech – technology for women’s health – organizations across the community have broadened boundaries of innovation and reinforced our position as Canada’s leading technology and research hub.
Here is a snapshot of some of this month’s biggest stories.
Catalyst Connected Infrastructure Network to lead future of mobility
The Government of Ontario through Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), announced a new Regional Technology Development Site (RTDS) in the Waterloo region. The Catalyst Connected Infrastructure Network (CCIN) brings together industry leaders like Geotab, Miovision, Communitech, Deloitte, the University of Waterloo and Conestoga College to help companies develop, test and commercialize mobility technologies using real-world infrastructure and live data across more than 500 smart intersections and 1,200 connected municipal fleet vehicles.
Waterloo Engineering lab developing low-carbon AI for global industries
University of Waterloo’s Critical Machine Learning Lab is developing AI systems that are safer, more efficient and more environmentally responsible for applications across healthcare, aviation and advanced manufacturing. Built on the foundations of machine learning, and in collaboration with partners like Skywise (an Airbus Subsidiary), Apple and University Health Network, the Lab focuses on challenges like medical decision support, flight operations optimisation and AI reliability while reducing the computational cost and carbon footprint of training modern models.
A diamond breakthrough for the future of Quantum Computing
Tiny structure, big impact – researchers at the Institute for Quantum Computing have developed a nanoscale diamond device that better collects and directs light, making it easier to control and read quantum systems. This innovation could improve quantum sensing, biomedical imaging, navigation technologies, and future solid-state quantum computers.
Local businesses getting an AI boost — powered by Waterloo students
Communitech’s AI@WORK initiative is placing University of Waterloo’s students at the core of transforming local business AI adoption. As part of the broader Waterloo Region AI Coalition, the program positions University of Waterloo students as a driving force behind regional productivity, innovation, and practical AI implementation.
Waterloo femtech startup reinventing cervical cancer screening
Cellect Laboratories is gaining international attention after advancing to the Hult Prize accelerator stage with its non-invasive cervical cancer screening technology. According to coverage in the Waterloo Region Record, the company uses nanotechnology to capture cervical cellular material for lab testing and aims to provide a more accessible and painless alternative to the traditional Pap smear procedure.
Waterloo business leaders help shape Ontario’s economic agenda
At the 2026 Ontario Chamber AGM, Waterloo Region’s business leaders helped shape the province’s workforce agenda. The featured brief by the Greater Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber of Commerce, the proposal focused on strengthening long-term workforce capacity, reducing barriers and improving participation across key sectors tied to Ontario’s industrial growth strategy. It reinforces Waterloo Region’s reputation for collaborative economic leadership and proactive workforce development.
Comparing manufacturing costs just got easier
Waterloo EDC has launched a new Manufacturing Cost Calculator that helps manufacturers compare talent, real estate and energy costs across North American manufacturing communities. Explore the tool on our website and see how regions stack up side by side in real-time