Welcome to this week’s Sunday Briefing. In this issue:

Now on to today’s briefing.

-Emily, [email protected]

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The Province is putting more than $90,000 toward quantum computing research equipment at the University of Victoria as part of a broader $1.9-million investment in the university's research infrastructure. The funding, delivered through the B.C. Knowledge Development Fund, will help researchers design computers capable of solving problems beyond the reach of traditional supercomputers while using less energy.

Thomas Baker, a professor of physics and chemistry and Canada Research Chair in quantum computing at UVic, is leading the design of the new research systems. Companies working with UVic research teams will also be able to use the equipment to develop and test algorithms for commercial quantum computing applications.

"Quantum has so much potential to solve real-world problems and to create new knowledge in fundamental science," Baker said. "Support, such as the BC Knowledge Development Fund, is helping to feed the growing interest and activity in quantum fields among researchers, students and industry."

The investment is part of the Province's Look West strategy, which aims to strengthen B.C.'s economy by growing key sectors including technology, AI, quantum computing, and life sciences. Students working on Baker's research will gain hands-on skills preparing them as the next generation of quantum innovators and entrepreneurs. The funding is one of 10 UVic research infrastructure projects supported through the Province's investment, with other projects spanning life sciences, clean tech, climate science, and advanced manufacturing.

🎓 The scientist: UVic graduate Karolina Valente received an Emerging Alumni Award for her work as CEO and chief scientific officer of VoxCell BioInnovation, where she's advancing 3D bioprinted human tissue models to replace animal testing in cancer drug development.

🎤 Let's get together: Rising Economy Conference 2026 announced its keynote lineup for the March 10-11 event, featuring Vancity Chief Economist Judith Bosire, Canadian Tire owner Justin Young, and sessions on AI career pivots, leadership through anxiety, and intergenerational workplace dynamics.

🤖 Working overtime: Victoria's InDro Robotics joined nine Canadian startups selected for CENGN's Living Lab Initiative, gaining access to testing environments and $2.6 million in federal funding to validate its dexterous humanoid robotics solution for agricultural applications.

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March 6 | Canadian technology contributions to the Square Kilometre Array

Join Dr. Peter E. Dewdney for a virtual deep dive into Canada's role in building the world's two largest radio telescopes. Learn how decades of Canadian innovation at NRC's Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory laid the groundwork for the Square Kilometre Array—two cutting-edge telescopes under construction in South Africa and Australia that will push the boundaries of cosmology, galaxy evolution, and the search for molecular precursors of life. Discover how Canadian technology and industry continue to shape this transformational global collaboration. Virtual event via Zoom, opens at 11:30 a.m., talk begins at noon.

March 10-11 | Rising Economy Conference

At Rising Economy 2026, step into two days of bold thinking, sharp insights and possibility-focused conversations at a conference designed to move your organization — and our region — forward. Hear from compelling business thinkers and entrepreneurs, economic and trend experts, innovators and change-makers. Explore shifts that are redefining strategy, talent, technology, leadership and growth. Leave equipped with ideas you can act on Monday, not someday.

April 1 | VIATEC Awards

The VIATEC Awards bring the tech community together to connect, to celebrate, and to shine a spotlight on this year's most notable tech companies and individuals within Greater Victoria's $5.9 billion tech sector. This isn't your average award show – The VIATEC Awards are well known for its elaborate and fun production!.

Have something or someone we should know about?

Reply or email [email protected] so we can work together to spotlight the lesser-known stories of Victoria's tech ecosystem.