SmartTOInternal Archives - SmartTO /research/project/smartto/tag/smarttointernal/ The future of mobility Mon, 25 Aug 2025 20:47:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 SmartTO x Boast: Unlocking SR&ED for Mobility Startups & SMEs /research/project/smartto/events/smartto-x-boast-unlocking-sred-for-mobility-startups-smes/ Mon, 25 Aug 2025 20:38:11 +0000 /research/project/smartto/?post_type=mec-events&p=5990 About this event Is your startup leaving valuable funding on the table? Canada’s Scientific Research & Experimental Development (SR&ED) program offers generous tax incentives, but navigating eligibility rules, documentation requirements, and the claim process can be challenging. Join SmartTO and Boast for an interactive, one-hour session designed specifically for startups and SMEs in the innovation […]

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About this event

Is your startup leaving valuable funding on the table? Canada’s Scientific Research & Experimental Development (SR&ED) program offers generous tax incentives, but navigating eligibility rules, documentation requirements, and the claim process can be challenging.

Join SmartTO and Boast for an interactive, one-hour session designed specifically for startups and SMEs in the innovation ecosystem. Whether you’re an early-stage venture exploring future eligibility or an established company ready to submit a claim, this session will give you the insights and practical tools you need.

 

What you’ll learn:

  • SR&ED 101 for Innovators: Understand the fundamentals of Canada’s SR&ED program and how it applies to transportation and mobility technologies.
  • Spot Eligible R&D Activities: Learn how to identify qualifying projects, from EV powertrain development to intelligent traffic management systems.
  • Build Strong Claims: Best practices for documentation, evidence gathering, and meeting compliance requirements.
  • Avoid Common Pitfalls: Real-world examples of what can delay or derail claims and how to steer clear of them.
  • Pathway to Partner with Boast: How Boast helps mobility ventures maximize their SR&ED benefits.

 

Who should attend?

  • Founders & co-founders of innovative startups
  • Finance, operations, and R&D leaders at SMEs in the sector
  • Entrepreneurs planning to develop new mobility products or services
  • Innovation managers seeking to leverage tax credits for growth

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Beyond SmartTO: Funding Opportunities for Industry-Academic Collaboration /research/project/smartto/events/beyond-smartto-funding-opportunities-for-industry-academic-collaboration/ Wed, 28 May 2025 18:30:43 +0000 /research/project/smartto/?post_type=mec-events&p=4783 Whether you've already partnered with SmartTO or are just getting started, this session is designed to help you take your mobility project to the next level. Once your Applied Technical Project with SmartTO wraps up, you may be ready to grow that collaboration, but knowing where to go next can be challenging. That’s why SmartTO […]

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Whether you've already partnered with SmartTO or are just getting started, this session is designed to help you take your mobility project to the next level.

Once your Applied Technical Project with SmartTO wraps up, you may be ready to grow that collaboration, but knowing where to go next can be challenging. That’s why SmartTO is bringing together key funding partners, including representatives from , the (OCI), , and more, to guide you through the available funding pathways for your next technical initiative.

Why You Should Attend:

  • Understand your options: Get a clear overview of programs that support continued or expanded academic collaboration
  • Hear directly from funders: Learn what each agency offers and how to align with their criteria
  • See what’s possible: Explore real examples of SmartTO projects that grew into larger successes
  • College vs. university funding: Learn how funding pathways differ and how to navigate each
  • Make connections: Meet funders face-to-face to ask questions and get personalized advice on your next steps

In-person bonus:
Start your morning with a light breakfast catered by , with meals delivered by robots via SkipTheDishes. It’s not just a meal, it’s a taste of the future!

Note: A virtual access link will be sent to those who choose to attend online.

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Opportunities & Innovations in EV Infrastructure, Renewables, and Storage /research/project/smartto/events/opportunities-innovations-in-ev-infrastructure-renewables-and-storage/ Wed, 28 May 2025 15:34:15 +0000 /research/project/smartto/?post_type=mec-events&p=4772 As Canada and the global economy move toward decarbonization, the demand for smart, scalable, and sustainable electrical infrastructure is exploding. Startups and SMEs are uniquely positioned to lead this transition—especially in areas like grid modernization, distributed energy resources, EV charging, and renewable integration. This session will feature insights from Slava Rolinsky, an electrical engineering professor […]

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As Canada and the global economy move toward decarbonization, the demand for smart, scalable, and sustainable electrical infrastructure is exploding. Startups and SMEs are uniquely positioned to lead this transition—especially in areas like grid modernization, distributed energy resources, EV charging, and renewable integration.

This session will feature insights from Slava Rolinsky, an electrical engineering professor at Centennial College and a leader in developing training programs for EV infrastructure. Slava brings deep expertise across energy management, power distribution, and automation—making him an invaluable voice in this evolving space.

This virtual session will cover:

  1. Market Opportunities in grid-tied and off-grid systems, microgrids, EV charging networks, and behind-the-meter storage
  2. Emerging Technologies including vehicle-to-grid (V2G), solar + storage integration, smart inverters, and advanced metering
  3. Infrastructure Trends & Code Considerations: What is changing in standards, safety, and utility interconnection
  4. Educational and Technical Support Resources from colleges, industry groups, and government programs

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SmartTO Demo Day /research/project/smartto/events/smartto-demo-day/ Wed, 26 Feb 2025 23:47:07 +0000 /research/project/smartto/?post_type=mec-events&p=4049 The SmartTO Demo Day, in partnership with YSpace, is the ultimate gathering for startups, industry experts, and partners in the mobility and transportation sector. This exclusive event showcases two flagship initiatives: the Smart Mobility Tech Accelerator (SMTA) and the SmartTO Innovation Challenge designed to accelerate technologies.Ìý   Hosted at The Well, a state-of-the-art venue in the heart of Downtown Toronto, startups from […]

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The SmartTO Demo Day, in partnership with YSpace, is the ultimate gathering for startups, industry experts, and partners in the mobility and transportation sector. This exclusive event showcases two flagship initiatives: the Smart Mobility Tech Accelerator (SMTA) and the SmartTO Innovation Challenge designed to accelerate technologies.Ìý

 

Hosted at The Well, a state-of-the-art venue in the heart of Downtown Toronto, startups from each initiative will pitch their groundbreaking solutions to a panel of industry leaders and visionaries. Get ready for a night of inspiring discussions about the future of urban mobility.Ìý

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Why Attend?
This is more than just a pitch competition, it's an opportunity to connect with forward-thinking entrepreneurs, explore innovative solutions, and build partnerships that will shape the future of mobility. Whether you're a startup founder, investor, or industry professional, this event is a chance to engage with the trailblazers right here in Ontario.Ìý

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Who Will Be There?
We’ve curated an exclusive audience of industry leaders, including:Ìý

  • Government & OVIN RepresentativesÌý
  • StartupsÌý
  • Industry Experts & PartnersÌý
  • Academia & Thought LeadersÌý

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What Can You Expect?Ìý

  • Pitch Competition: Watch the startups pitch, showcasing their cutting-edge solutions for the future of transportation and mobility.Ìý
  • Networking Opportunities: Meet the next generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors who are transforming the transportation and mobility landscape.Ìý
  • Food & Drinks: Enjoy a selection of delicious food and drinks while networking with industry leaders.Ìý
  • Insights & Inspiration: Gain valuable insights from industry leaders and thought-provoking discussions that will leave you inspired and connected.Ìý

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Don’t Miss Out! This is your chance to be part of an innovative, exciting evening where the future of mobility is not just discussed, it’s being built. Get ready for an experience that will challenge your thinking and open doors to new opportunities in the world of mobility solutions.Ìý

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SmartTO Innovation Challenge Competition Information Session /research/project/smartto/events/smartto-innovation-challenge-competition-information-session/ Mon, 10 Feb 2025 22:13:11 +0000 /research/project/smartto/?post_type=mec-events&p=3984 The SmartTO Innovation Challenge Competition invites startups to propose innovative solutions to today’s most pressing challenges. All potential applicants are invited to join an information session on Feb. 19th, 12pm-1pm online to receive valuable insights from our team on how to prepare for submissions. During this session, we will cover: The Challenge Statement: An overview […]

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The SmartTO Innovation Challenge Competition invites startups to propose innovative solutions to today’s most pressing challenges. All potential applicants are invited to join an information session on Feb. 19th, 12pm-1pm online to receive valuable insights from our team on how to prepare for submissions.

During this session, we will cover:

  • The Challenge Statement: An overview of the problem you're tasked to solve
  • The Criteria: Key requirements and expectations for submissions
  • Q&A: We’ll answer any questions you may have to ensure you're fully prepared

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more and set yourself up for success

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Managing Electromagnetic Interference: Best Practices for Reliable Product Design and Testing /research/project/smartto/events/managing-electromagnetic-interference-best-practices-for-reliable-product-design-and-testing/ Fri, 01 Nov 2024 18:49:15 +0000 /research/project/smartto/?post_type=mec-events&p=2985 Join SmartTO for this exclusive event where our partners - Syntronic and MegaLab will showcase the FREE services that all SmartTO clients get access to. Our facilitators will share expertise on optimizing electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and managing electromagnetic interference (EMI) including the following topics: Key Concepts: Understanding the basics of EMC/EMI, including emissions control, susceptibility, […]

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Join SmartTO for this exclusive event where our partners - and will showcase the FREE services that all SmartTO clients get access to.

Our facilitators will share expertise on optimizing electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and managing electromagnetic interference (EMI) including the following topics:

  • Key Concepts: Understanding the basics of EMC/EMI, including emissions control, susceptibility, and compliance with major standards like FCC, CISPR, and IEC.
  • Design Challenges: Explore common issues like component layout, shielding, grounding, and PCB design, with practical solutions and best practices.
  • Real-World Case Studies: Dive into actual design and testing challenges, showcasing how innovative strategies helped overcome EMC/EMI failures.
  • Testing Insights: Learn about conducted and radiated emissions testing, and how to prepare designs and get involved with test labs at early stages to prevent costly mistakes.
  • Collaborative Solutions: Discover how simulation, pre-compliance testing, and prototyping can lead to better design outcomes and faster market readiness.

This session is ideal for:

  • Engineers, product designers, and technical leaders working on complex electronic systems or devices where EMC/EMI performance is critical to product success.
  • Developers of consumer electronics, automotive systems, aerospace components, medical devices, industrial machinery, and IoT products looking to improve performance and ensure that designs meet strict regulatory standards.
  • Teams involved in high-speed digital circuits, wireless communication devices, power supplies, robotics, and embedded systems who want to enhance reliability, minimize electromagnetic interference, and avoid costly redesigns.
  • Project managers and R&D teams focusing on innovations such as smart homes, connected vehicles, and automation solutions, where flawless EMI management is crucial for safety, efficiency, and user satisfaction.

Don’t miss the chance to enhance your understanding of EMC/EMI design and testing – a critical factor in ensuring the success and reliability of modern electronics!

Refreshments and free parking will be provided.

*Please note that this session is open to everyone (whether you are a current or prospective SmartTO client).

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Opportunities for Automobility Startups in Ontario /research/project/smartto/events/opportunities-for-automobility-startups-in-ontario/ Wed, 09 Oct 2024 21:08:45 +0000 /research/project/smartto/?post_type=mec-events&p=2969 Are you a founder developing groundbreaking products or technologies in electrification, charging, V2G, automotive, or mobility solutions? We invite you to join us for an exclusive workshop designed specifically for startups like yours! What to Expect: Discover ventureLAB and SmartTO’s resources tailored for automobility startups. Learn about OVIN's Technology Pilot Zones and R&D Partnership Fund […]

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Are you a founder developing groundbreaking products or technologies in electrification, charging, V2G, automotive, or mobility solutions? We invite you to join us for an exclusive workshop designed specifically for startups like yours!

What to Expect:

  • Discover ventureLAB and SmartTO’s resources tailored for automobility startups.
  • Learn about OVIN's Technology Pilot Zones and R&D Partnership Fund that can accelerate your product development and testing.
  • Network with industry peers and explore opportunities for collaboration and funding in the Greater Toronto Area.

Date: Tuesday October 15, 2024 at 1:00PM

Register Now:

If you’re a founder working on electrification, charging, V2G technologies, automotive innovations, or mobility-adjacent solutions, we encourage you to join us!

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IP Foundations for Automotive Innovations - Patents, Copyright, Trademarks, Trade Secrets /research/project/smartto/events/ip-foundations-for-automotive-innovations-patents-copyright-trademarks-trade-secrets/ Tue, 17 Sep 2024 21:40:59 +0000 /research/project/smartto/?post_type=mec-events&p=2847 Unlock the secrets to protecting and leveraging your intellectual property (IP) within the dynamic automotive industry. This workshop is designed to equip you with essential knowledge and practical tools to safeguard your innovations and gain a competitive edge. What You'll Learn: Understanding Intellectual Property (IP): Discover the fundamentals of IP, including its definition, various types, […]

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Unlock the secrets to protecting and leveraging your intellectual property (IP) within the dynamic automotive industry. This workshop is designed to equip you with essential knowledge and practical tools to safeguard your innovations and gain a competitive edge.

What You'll Learn:

  • Understanding Intellectual Property (IP): Discover the fundamentals of IP, including its definition, various types, and the critical role it plays in your business.
  • Protecting Your Innovations: Learn how to defend your creations from competitors and understand the nuances between trade secrets, industrial designs, and other protective measures.

Workshop Highlights:

  1. IP and Global Economic Impact
    • Explore how IP drives economic growth and contributes to Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
    • Examine leading countries in patent filings within the automotive sector and their influence on the global market.
  2. IP in the Automotive Industry
    • Analyze key IP assets crucial to the automotive sector and their role in fostering business growth and competitive advantage.
  3. Deep Dive into IP Types
    • Patents: Safeguard new inventions and technological advancements.
    • Trademarks: Protect brands, logos, and product names.
    • Copyrights: Defend original works of authorship, such as software and designs.
    • Trade Secrets: Maintain confidentiality of valuable business information and processes.
  4. Trademark Essentials
    • Understand different types of trademarks—words, logos, and slogans.
    • Develop effective brand protection strategies and learn about global trademark considerations.
  5. Copyright Fundamentals
    • Learn how to protect software, designs, and other creative works from infringement.
  6. Trade Secrets
    • Identify and shield confidential business information and implement robust protection strategies.
  7. Freedom to Operate
    • Craft a comprehensive IP strategy that aligns with your business goals, and identify and assess your IP assets.
  8. Interactive Elements
    • Engage with real-world case studies, participate in a Q&A session, and access valuable resources to deepen your understanding.

Join us for this in-depth workshop and take the first step towards mastering intellectual property management in the automotive sector. Ensure your innovations are protected and leverage IP to drive your business forward.

 

About theÌýPresenters:

Marc Lampert, BESc (Elec Eng.), Lawyer, Patent Agent, Trademark Agent
Principal, Patent Group Leader - Bhole IP Law

To learn more about Bhole IP Law visit:

 

Joseph Turcotte, PhD, Associate Director, IP Innovation Clinic

Osgoode Hall Law School, ¿ì²¥ÊÓÆµ

To learn more about the IP Innovation Clinic visit:

 

Courtney Cole - Business Development Manager, IP Ontario, ¿ì²¥ÊÓÆµ

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Driving Innovation: Transforming the Next Era of Automotive Innovation /research/project/smartto/events/driving-innovation-transforming-the-next-era-of-automotive-innovation/ Thu, 12 Sep 2024 16:44:24 +0000 /research/project/smartto/?post_type=mec-events&p=2839 Driving Innovation: Transforming the Next Era of Automotive Innovation Centennial Innovates: Inclusive Excellence Breakfast Series #5 Join Us for an Exciting Talk on the Future of the Automotive Industry! Are you ready to dive into the future of the automotive industry and explore the trends shaping tomorrow's mobility landscape? Join us for an electrifying talk […]

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Driving Innovation: Transforming the Next Era of Automotive Innovation

Centennial Innovates: Inclusive Excellence Breakfast Series #5

Join Us for an Exciting Talk on the Future of the Automotive Industry!

Are you ready to dive into the future of the automotive industry and explore the trends shaping tomorrow's mobility landscape? Join us for an electrifying talk that will ignite your curiosity and open your mind to the game-changing innovations driving the industry forward! 🚘💡

From groundbreaking advancements in technology to the rise of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) leading the charge, this session will uncover the fundamental forces behind the dynamic evolution of the automotive world. We'll explore the power of diversity—how embracing the broad spectrum of experiences, talents and perspectives of women, people of colour, neurodivergent individuals and more is key to unlocking untapped potential, fueling creativity, and driving business success.

In partnership with SmartTO, this engaging morning with Kay Layne will explore the cutting-edge world of automotive innovation. You'll discover the latest trends and gain actionable insights to build a more inclusive, equitable, and forward-thinking industry. Whether you're an entrepreneur, student, or aspiring professional, this talk will challenge you to think differently and inspire you to be a driving force in shaping Canada's thriving automotive future. Don't miss this opportunity to accelerate your knowledge and passion for the road ahead!

💡 Join us for the 5th instalment of the Centennial Innovates: Inclusive Excellence Breakfast Series, where we foster dialogue and learning on relevant topics related to EDI and applied research, innovation and entrepreneurship - this time focused on equitable innovation in the automotive industry!

This free in-person event is open to all students, staff, faculty, industry and community members, and held at the Centennial College Events Centre (Progress Campus), Fall/Winter Room. Enjoy a plant-based breakfast buffet menu, and an insightful morning with Kay.

Meet Our Speaker:

Kay Layne founded , a corporate training and consulting firm specializing in fostering executive success through an anti-oppression framework. She is also an experienced automotive journalist, and her work has been featured in various publications, television shows, and platforms. Before founding Kayambi, she built a career spanning over a decade in radio and television. Kay was a reporter, host, and producer for prominent outlets such as 680 News, Sun TV, CTV, Business News Network, and Rogers Television.

About SmartTO:

Smart Mobility Applied Research and Testing-Toronto (SmartTO) is one of seven regional technology development sites that are a part of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN). SmartTO is Toronto’s newest transportation and mobility hub, led by ¿ì²¥ÊÓÆµ in partnership with Centennial College. They empower startups and SMEs to develop, test and prototype advanced automotive technologies and smart mobility solutions through accessing our state of the-art equipment, innovative labs and research centres, world-renowned expertise, and concierge-style business advisory and technical services. They focus on Smart Materials and Light-weighting along with Smart Mobility, Connectivity and Reliability.

Event Agenda

8:45 - 9:15 AM - Networking & Breakfast

9:15 - 9:30 AM - Opening and Welcome by Jonathan Hack, Dean, Centennial Innovates

9:30 - 10:15 AM - Keynote presentation by Kay Layne

10:15 - 10:25 AM - Refreshment break

10:25 - 11:15 AM - Keynote presentation by Kay Layne (continued)

11:15 - 11:25 AM - Presentation about SmartTO by Paulina Karwowska-Desaulniers, Executive Director, SmartTO

11:25-11:30AM - Closing by Jonathan Hack, Dean, Centennial Innovates

See you there!

Don't miss out on this great opportunity to be inspired and to network and gain valuable insights from peers and colleagues. Whether you're a student, faculty member, staff, industry partner, community member or simply interested in the topic, this event welcomes you. Come learn and engage with others on fostering equity, diversity and inclusivity in the world of automotive applied research, entrepreneurship and innovation!

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SmartTO & Mathworks Coffee, Bagels & Rapid Prototyping /research/project/smartto/events/smartto-coffee-and-bagels/ Wed, 04 Sep 2024 18:14:11 +0000 /research/project/smartto/?post_type=mec-events&p=2732 Come grab a coffee, have a bagel, and learn about rapid prototyping with our partner, MathWorks. MathWorks, the maker of MATLAB and Simulink software—which are widely used in engineering globally for design, analysis, and simulation—provides 12 months of free access to all of their software (up to 10 licenses per startup) and engineering support to […]

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Come grab a coffee, have a bagel, and learn about rapid prototyping with our partner, MathWorks.

MathWorks, the maker of MATLAB and Simulink software—which are widely used in engineering globally for design, analysis, and simulation—provides 12 months of free access to all of their software (up to 10 licenses per startup) and engineering support to our startup members.

In this session, you’ll learn how MATLAB & Simulink are utilized in the development of algorithms including implementation and testing on hardware. Our demonstration will emphasize how to design, simulate and test a complex system that incorporates multiple domains such as mechanical, electrical and hydraulic – that are typically isolated across different software platforms and thus not simulated in a common framework. This in turns accelerates the pace of product development.

During our presentation, we’ll demonstrate how to:

  • Design and optimize the control system and simulate the control system and plant model together
  • Generate code for hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and rapid prototyping, and demonstrate how you can test your models in real-time with actual hardware
  • Develop and deploy MATLAB® algorithms and Simulink® models as digital twin

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