What’s
Happening
Find out what’s new in the world of digital, and how we’re growing and evolving the industry together.
Featured Events
Here we code: Tech Fusion networking event
atlantica hotel halifax • May 2, 2024
In collaboration with Digital Nova Scotia and SuperNOVA the Faculty of Computer Science at Dalhousie is excited to host the Here We Code: Tech Fusion networking event! This event serves as a catalyst for fostering meaningful relationships across the tech community. By uniting diverse stakeholders such as industry, social and government organizations, education providers, we aim to propel the talent pipeline forward, empowering individuals and organizations to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
Here we code tech career fair
Dalhousie University • September 25, 2025
Details to come soon.
New in Digital
Here We Code celebrates first Tech Career Fair success
Dalhousie University • November 6, 2023
The first-ever Here We Code Tech Career Fair was held on Dalhousie University’s campus, marking a significant milestone in the university's commitment to nurturing the next generation of tech leaders.
Dal's AI lead aims to spark conversation and connection on our rapidly evolving information future
Dalhousie University • July 25, 2023
Dal's new institutional lead for AI strategy may be a computer scientist by trade, but the conversations he's facilitating are much more about people — and how the Dal community can work through the opportunities and challenges of a fast-moving frontier of digital disruption.
3 Global Universities creating new opportunities for computer science innovation
Study International • June 15, 2023
From the advancement of artificial intelligence to the creation of powerful algorithms, computer science is at the heart of every new development in our modern world. This makes a computer science education more relevant than ever.
Halifax ocean tech hub buoys firms tackling everything from climate change to defence
Toronto star • may 7, 2023
It started as a Coast Guard facility, two aging brick buildings on the Dartmouth side of Halifax Harbour. Today, they’ve been updated with modern steel-grey siding, a nod to the nearby sea and the site’s new purpose as the Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship, or COVE.
Wave of tech engagement sweeps Nova Scotia for gaming challenge
Dalhousie University • April 21, 2023
Nova Scotia’s first-ever Global Game Jam held earlier this year revealed just how much pent-up demand there is in the province for opportunities to experiment with video-game development.
Nova Scotia company teams up with U.K. business to create one-stop shop for ocean DNA collection and analysis
saltwire • april 19, 2023
It’s all about the DNA. A Nova Scotia company that specializes in collecting DNA samples from the ocean is teaming up with a U.K. company that uses a proprietary system to analyze them.
From video games to health care, Nova Scotia is going digital
saltwire • april 14, 2023
Spring brings growth. This year, that includes Nova Scotia’s tech sector. Throughout May, virtual and in-person events will highlight growth and opportunities in the province’s tech sector. The events are part of the second annual Here We Code Month, an initiative to spread the word about the growing need for digital education—and its benefits.
Province Invests in Technology for Students, Teachers
Province of Nova Scotia • April 11, 2023
Nova Scotia is purchasing more Chromebooks, iPads and laptops to support students and teachers across the province. The $10-million EdTech Refresh Plan complements other recent technological investments, including more support for the Nova Scotia Virtual School.
Oneka Technologies sets up shop in Nova Scotia
offshore energy • march 10, 2023
Oneka Technologies, a company developing wave-powered desalination solutions, has established an office at the Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship (COVE) in Nova Scotia.
Annapolis Valley Regional Library now loaning mobile internet hotspot devices
saltwire • march 8, 2023
Just like books or other media, Annapolis Valley residents in need of a mobile, wireless internet connection can now borrow a device from the regional library. The program is being delivered through a partnership between @NS, also known as the Community Technology Network of Nova Scotia, and the Annapolis Valley Regional Library (AVRL).
New Technology to Improve Patient Care
Province of Nova Scotia • February 1, 2023
Shorter wait times, better care, and giving health professionals more time with patients are some of the ways that One Person One Record can help improve healthcare in Nova Scotia.
Global Game Jam challenges students in Halifax to design video game in 48 hours
Global • February 5, 2023
Global Game Jam, the world’s largest game creation event, wrapped up its first-ever event in Atlantic Canada this weekend. The 48-hour event is an ultimate challenge that puts computer skills to the test. Students of all ages are tasked with designing and developing a video game from scratch.
‘Here We Code’ campaign bolsters Nova Scotia’s growing digital economy
SaltWire • January 23, 2023
The ‘Here We Code’ campaign – a collaborative tech-positive movement – seeks to drive the evolution of digital innovation between different sectors such as industry, education and business.
A new era of digital in Nova Scotia
Digital Nova Scotia • January 10, 2023
In the most recent episode of Digital Nova Scotia's podcast, All Hands on Tech, the team discusses the Here We Code campaign with the Faculty of Computer Science's Director of Engagement and Communications, Becca Rawcliffe.
Cognizant Commits $5.3 Million in Philanthropic Support to Expand STEM Education and Access to Tech Careers
Cognizant Foundation • december 7, 2022
Cognizant has announced $5.3 million in philanthropic support for 14 organizations throughout the U.S. and Canada. This funding will help broaden access to K-12 STEM education and advance equitable career pathways, a philanthropic commitment consistent with Cognizant’s vision to leverage technology to improve everyday life.
Computer Science students create online game to shift attitudes about accessibility
dalhousie university • december 5, 2022
A new online game under development by a team of Dal computer science students aims to help educate the university community about (dis)abilities and reduce affiliated stereotypes and stigmas in the process.
8 Award Winners Announced at Last Night’s Tech Forward Awards Presented by RBC!
digital nova scotia • november 18, 2022
Innovators, change-makers and diversity champions in Nova Scotia’s technology sector were celebrated last night alongside 240 guests at our Tech Forward Awards, presented by RBC. These eight awards recognize leaders and organizations making waves in the digital industry, while promoting diversity and inclusion and helping to drive the sector’s growth.
Video game studio helps Nova Scotia’s Lunenburg make its mark in the world of golf
Global news • october 26, 2022
When tech meets golf - located on the south shore of Nova Scotia, with a population of 2,396 according to the 2021 census, the port town is home to HB Studios, creator of the new “PGA Tour 2K23” video game.
Digital Roles Are Critical In Post-COVID Canadian Retail: New Report
ICtc-ctic • september 12, 2022
Canadian retailers are increasingly hiring for digital-savvy jobs such as UX/UI designers, data analysts, software developers, and digital marketers as intelligent retail continues to accelerate post-COVID.
Supercooling technology for fish industry warms up business at Canada-Iceland trade show
cbc news • september 9, 2022
First Canada-Iceland trade show focused on seafood technology was held in Halifax this week.
Why many Atlantic Canadian farmers struggle to adopt high‑tech solutions — and what can be done to change that
Dalhousie University • August 23, 2022
Early adopters? Not so much. In Atlantic Canada, many small farms and agricultural producers can't afford to implement the latest tech solutions, but a new Dal-linked initiative seeks to offer a path forward.
Digital Skills for Women
Digital Nova Scotia • August 8, 2022
Digital Skills for Women is a learning program created by women for women. This free cohort is designed to help women without experience in the tech/digital/IT industry to learn more about industry-related topics, the ecosystem, and career opportunities. Its purpose is to help participants build confidence, learn industry language, and ultimately leave better positioned to explore and enter a career in digital/tech/IT.
Data Champions: Dalhousie researchers recognized for bringing innovation and advocacy to data-driven research
Dalhousie University• August 2, 2022
The Digital Research Alliance of Canada has announced three Dal researchers as winners of their Data Champions competiton, helping fund research focused on elevating the use and management of data to transform the academic landscape.
Siblings create app to help people caught in intimate partner violence
CBC News• July 12, 2022
Two siblings who study at Dalhousie University in Halifax hope to help survivors of intimate partner violence by designing an app that's disguised to look like the user is reading a recipe on their phone. The app is called Mitro, which means friend in Bengali, and it's the creation of Anamika and Anik Ahmed. They grew up in Bangladesh and surveyed 200 women from their home country before they started work on the technology.
Rise of digital sector forcing N.S. schools to adapt
Global News• July 9, 2022
The digital sector is booming, especially in Nova Scotia. Despite being home to more than 25,000 digital employees, companies and organizations are struggling to fill tech roles. It's a global shortage that has forced schools -- including Dalhousie University -- to adapt.
Avanade Expands into Atlantic Canada, Launches First Engineering Hub in Halifax
avanade• June 29, 2022
Avanade, the leading Microsoft solutions provider, has expanded its presence into Atlantic Canada with the launch of the company’s fourth North American engineering hub, in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Avanade aims to recruit 300+ professionals, both entry- and senior-level, over the next two years to help businesses in the region and across North America take advantage of new and emerging technologies. Additional locations are expected to be announced in the coming months.
Virtual Reality & Health Care
researchns • June 1, 2022
Virtual Reality continues to be embraced by researchers, health care providers, and patients alike. Although the field is still relatively new, there seem to be more and more examples of virtual reality having a positive impact on health care delivery, treatment, and training both here at home and around the globe. In this episode, we will explore examples of how research in the area of virtual reality could help address current gaps in our healthcare system and improve patient care today and in the future.
Researchers took a snapshot of Nova Scotians' quality of life — then the pandemic hit
CBC News • May 31, 2022
A new online tool that gives users an in-depth look at the well-being of Nova Scotians points to the pervasive problem of loneliness and isolation in this province, even before COVID-19 pandemic kept more people apart.
'Funeral business enabled by tech' expands to Nova Scotia
Saltwire • May 20, 2022
Mallory Greene, CEO of Eirene.ca, is bringing the company's online cremation arrangement service to Nova Scotia. Eirene.ca has been doing business in Ontario for two years, offering a cremation package for $2,500 that includes unlimited proof of death certificates, transportation and “estate administration support.”
Innovasea testing a faster way to count fish in Nova Scotia with Artificial Intelligence
Saltwire • May 12, 2022
Innovasea, in collaboration with Deep Sense of Dalhousie University, is testing a system that uses artificial intelligence to provide real-time information about Atlantic Salmon and other fish as they migrate into the Gaspereau River in Nova Scotia this summer. Atlantic Salmon Federation photo - Atlantic Salmon Federation.
step into the metaverse
Unravel • May 2, 2022
For better or worse, virtual technology will transform the way we work, play, and live together - meet the locals on the cutting edge. The metaverse encompasses a series of different technologies. These include virtual reality, augmented reality, cryptocurrency, and digital goods.
Climate Tech Startup Planetary Technologies Wins Million Dollar XPRIZE Carbon Removal Milestone Award
Planetary • April 22, 2022
Planetary Technologies was awarded the XPRIZE Carbon Removal Milestone Award for its accelerated carbon transition platform. Planetary’s unique innovations leverage the planet’s ability to store carbon as a natural component of ocean chemistry. Planetary will use the $1 million prize to achieve a full-scale demonstration of its technology.
DAL PROF UNCOVERS WAYS TO MAKE DRAWING WITH VIRTUAL-REALITY TOOLS FEEL MORE NATURAL
Dalhousie University • April 22, 2022
As technology reshapes the way people approach animation and digital art, Dal’s Mayra Donaji Barrera Machuca is winning accolades for her research into how to make sketching in virtual-reality environments more user-friendly.
GOING BOLDLY: FIVE DAL SCHOLARS RECEIVE $1.1 MILLION TO MOVE IN AMBITIOUS NEW RESEARCH DIRECTIONS
Dalhousie University • april 4, 2022
From trying to discover the mystery of what makes our hearts tick to investigating whether social media is stoking systemic racism in Canada’s gentrifying cities, Dalhousie researchers are being empowered to take big swings for the benefit of society.
COVID Dodge: Busting the myths and superstitions around COVID-19
Dalhousie University • April 4, 2022
COVID-19 misinformation was rampant during the early days of the pandemic. In his latest blog, Computer Science Ph.D. student Chinenye Ndulue describes how a mobile game helped raise awareness in Nigeria.
Reality Labs Research fosters metaverse innovation at Canadian labs with $510,000 in unrestricted grants
Meta Research • March 29, 2022
17 Canadian research labs each receiving $30,000 (CAD) unrestricted grants from Reality Labs Research, for a total of $510,000. The grants are awarded to labs working on research that will advance innovations needed to build for the metaverse.
N.S. hospital will be first in Canada to screen for colon cancer with AI machine
CBC News • March 27, 2022
A Nova Scotia hospital will be the first in Canada to use equipment powered by artificial intelligence that can detect colorectal cancer more quickly, saving lives in the process. The Dartmouth General Hospital is expecting the arrival of a GI Genius intelligent endoscopy machine in early April
Young Halifax gamer 13th person worldwide to earn 'black belt' in computer coding
CBC News • march 14, 2022
A young person in Halifax has become the second Canadian to earn his black belt — in computer coding. Noam Pischanker, 12, has long loved video games, and two years ago he enrolled in the Halifax branch of Code Ninjas. The company teaches children to code and borrows martial arts' belt system to mark progress.
RESEARCHERS DETECT FIRST POTENTIAL CASE OF DEER-TO-HUMAN TRANSMISSION OF COVID-19
Dalhousie University • march 2, 2022
A team of researchers from Dalhousie and other Canadian organizations has discovered what could be the first link between a case of COVID-19 in deer and humans, suggesting in a new paper that the virus can be transmitted from wildlife to people.
Welcome to Bizbeacon!
digital nova scotia • February 24, 2022
The last two years have accelerated the need for digital adoption among small businesses globally, and in true Nova Scotian fashion, we have come together to support one another through these challenges. We’re proud to officially announce the launch of BizBeacon, an online digital marketing resource hub, created in partnership with the Nova Scotia Department of Economic Development.
Facebook to begin laying cable through fishing grounds off Nova Scotia
Cbc news • February 14, 2022
Installation of a transatlantic submarine telecommunications cable for tech giant Facebook on the seabed off southern Nova Scotia is set to begin as soon. The Canadian portion of the route will take the cable through fishing grounds and the Fundian Channel-Browns Bank Area of Interest, an area being considered for designation as a Marine Protected Area because of its deepsea corals and sponges.
Dalhousie University: Where computer science students thrive
Study International • January 31, 2022
One look at Halifax, and Samara Burton, a Bachelor of Applied Computer Science at Dalhousie University student, already knew she would feel right at home. “I was born on the Caribbean island of Dominica. Halifax appealed to me as a city, because being right on the water it always felt a little bit closer to home!” she enthuses.
Three Reasons Why DigiPort Is Bringing Momentum To The Tech Wave In Nova Scotia
Digital nova scotia • January 31, 2022
The changing digital ecosystem has kindled projects like DigiPort, a partnered effort from Tourism Nova Scotia and Digital Nova Scotia, where tourism businesses can find a curated collection of digital marketing resources like social media management, search engine optimization, web development/management & more.
Global tech company expanding in Halifax, vows to create up to 1,250 jobs
Aly thomson • cbc • January 18, 2022
A multinational information technology company is setting up shop in Nova Scotia with an aim to create more than 1,000 new jobs. Cognizant, which bills itself as one of the world's leading technology and professional services companies, plans to open a new global technology and service delivery centre in Halifax.
Turnium Technology Group Inc. expands with Halifax Development Center
Turnium technology inc. • newswires • January 13, 2022
Located in Halifax's historic Brewery Market building on Lower Water Street, the new development center puts TTGI in the heart of Nova Scotia’s burgeoning $2.5 billion technology industry.
As new space race heats up, one Dal grad student is seeking to disrupt a $5.8‑billion market
Rowan Morrisy • Dalhousie university • January 10, 2022
“Our mission is to represent Canada in that race on the international stage,” says Arad Gharagozli, a Masters in Mechanical Engineering student whose space-tech startup GALAXIA designs and manufactures computers for small and nano-satellites.
The Deep dive: here we code
Video • Dalhousie university • December 16, 2021
In this episode, Dr. Saini speaks with Dr. Andrew Rau-Chaplin, Dean of the Faculty of Computer Science, as well as alumna Aleysha Mullen, who is now a developer with partner MOBIA Technology Innovations. Together, they discuss the recent launch of Here We Code.
IBM announces 350 more jobs in Nova Scotia expansion
Paul withers • cbc • December 14, 2021
IBM Canada has announced it will add another 350 jobs to its client innovation centre in Bedford, N.S., over the next five years. The expansion will eventually bring its workforce in the province to more than 1,000 people.
Deleting Digital Harm: A Review of Nova Scotia’s CyberScan Unit
Alexa Dodge • Dalhousie University • December 7, 2021
Dodge's work represents cutting-edge research on the impacts of digital technology from a social science perspective. Dodge shows that, in Canada, much of the government response to cyberbullying and non-consensual intimate image distribution has focused on legal responses as a core solution.
Why you should care about incel violence
Sarah Krymalowski • the signal • December 1, 2021
Michael Halpin wants you to start worrying about incels. The Dalhousie sociology professor first got interested in right-wing extremist groups in 2016 after the election of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency. This quest eventually led him to study online forums for “involuntary celibates” or incels.
students float ideas for future bedford ferry
haley ryan • cbc • November 14, 2021
Students from across the Maritimes in various programs recently took part in the Ocean of Data Challenge, where they came up with solutions for a future Bedford ferry based on public data.
Atlantic Technology Summit 2021 - Building a stronger Atlantic Tech Eco-system
Event • Atlantic Technology Summit • November 17, 2021
Atlantic Canada's fastest-growing technology conference returns for its 3rd year. We will welcome technology leaders, industry disruptors and tech workers from across our 4 Atlantic provinces and beyond.
N.S. COMPUTER SCIENCE Funding aims to expand digital economy
Roger taylor • saltwire • November 5, 2021
Dalhousie announced it was starting a new initiative under the slogan Here We Code, which aims to encourage more Nova Scotians to consider a career in the digital world.
Lights And Insights: Streetlight Company Expands Into New Solutions
chuck cartmill • liveable cities • November 2, 2021
LED Roadway Lighting Ltd., based in Halifax, NS, is an Export Development Canada 2020 Cleantech Export Star.
Supernova: take home tech kits
Beyondbooks • halifax public libraries • October 21, 2021
In an effort to reach families across Halifax during times of closures; isolation; and at some times, boredom; SuperNOVA at Dalhousie University and Halifax Public Libraries have joined forces to provide access to educational technology to kids with our new Take-Home Tech kits.
Immersive Nocturne arts festival exhibit born from an interchange of ideas
Becca Rawcliffe, Genevieve MacIntyre • Dalhousie University • October 15, 2021
Faculty members from the Faculty of Computer Science's Graphics and Experiential Media (GEM) Lab and the Fountain School of Performing Arts’s Cinema and Media Studies program collaborated on Interchanges: Shared Augmented Reality Stories, an immersive, in-person experience in which partners participate in one of two six-minute stories.
IBM opens school program for Mi'kmaw students in Cape Breton
Erin Pottie • CBC News • October 12, 2021
IBM Canada officially launched Unama'ki Pathways in Technology, Early College High School (P-TECH) on Tuesday, enabling high school students to graduate with a tuition-free, two-year college diploma in software engineering, along with work placements and interviews with the multinational corporation.
How videoconferencing impacts new moms ‑ Dal Health researchers awarded grant to explore ‘the virtual village’
dawn morrison • dalhousie university • October 8, 2021
The often-quoted African proverb "It takes a village to raise a child" refers to a community of people interacting positively with children to help them grow in a safe and healthy environment. This of course refers to ‘in-person’ interaction — but can a virtual village be equally beneficial to new parents and their children?
COVE Prioritizes Diversity In This Year’s Round Of WIL Digital Placements
Paul Stastny • ICTC • October 1, 2021
At the heart of the ocean ecosystem is the Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship (COVE), a global network of 2000-plus ocean leaders, government officials, and venture capitalists. This industrial growth hub is spurring growing interest in ocean-related employment among a wide variety of people, from students to established professionals seeking to pivot to a new career.
Student Spotlight: Rupinder Kaur Singh
management career services • Dalhousie university • September 28, 2021
Rupinder Singh is a second-year CRMBA student majoring in Analytics. Rupinder says she was drawn in by the help students receive through MCS for internships, like getting connected to employers in Atlantic Canada. With support from MCS, Rupinder landed a corporate residency with Canada’s Ocean Supercluster.
Dalhousie students honoured for device that helps people with disabilities
Richard Woodbury · CBC News · September 19, 2021
Four Dalhousie University students were recently honoured in a national competition for their design of a device that helps shield wheelchair users from the elements as they get in and out of vehicles. Students hope to commercialize device that placed third in Universities Canada competition.
NCWIT Awards for Atlantic High School Students
Faculty of Computer Science • Dalhousie University • September 17, 2021
Dalhousie's Faculty of Computer Science is representing Atlantic Canada as an affiliate of the NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing.
Artificial intelligence soccer unveiled at Dalhousie University
Paul Hollingsworth • CTV News • August 18, 2021
When you combine the world's most popular sport with jaw-dropping computer science technology, the result is a new and innovative soccer game. "Each one of these soccer players on the screen plays the game," said Dalhousie University PhD student Mahtab Sarvmaili. "Consider them as an individual person."
Hackathons jumpstart real‑world student ideas
Becca Rawcliffe • Dalhousie University • June 24, 2021
From space, aviation and climate change to healthy ageing and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, students and community members are working on solutions to real-world problems and even starting their own business ventures through the ShiftKey Labs hackathon series.
Space academy prepares for lift off
Stephen Abbot • Dalhousie university • may 27, 2021
A two-week program launching on Dalhousie’s Sexton Campus this summer will provide high-school students from across Atlantic Canada with hands-on experience in the space-science field.
Dal prof receives Governor General’s Innovation Award for 3D printed devices that improve cancer treatment
Michele charlton • Dalhousie university • may 6, 2021
Medical physicist Dr. James Robar was one of six 2021 Governor General’s Innovation Award recipients announced by the Rideau Hall Foundation Tuesday in recognition for his work creating technology that improves the experience of cancer patients receiving radiation therapy
researcher spotlight: Dr. rita orji
video • Research Nova Scotia • May 4, 2021
Learn how Dr. Orji has combined her talents in tech with her passion for helping people in the field of persuasive technology to design and improve interactive systems such as games and apps that promote health and wellness and help users achieve their goals.
Turning streetlights into technology pillars to support smart cities
David israelson • Globe and mail • April 7, 2020
Most people spend little or no time thinking about streetlights but it’s a business for Chuck and Ken Cartmill who, along the way, discovered something rather illuminating: The equipment used to light up roadways can also be a pillar for the information age.
Rural Nova Scotia becoming Canada’s biotechnology hub as startups move east
Brett Bundale • Global News • April 2, 2021
A remote East Coast community with roots in coal and steel might not seem like the setting for Canada’s high-tech future. Yet some of the country’s brightest minds are leaving big-city labs in Toronto and Silicon Valley and travelling to eastern Nova Scotia to scale up cutting-edge biotechnology.
AI software developed in N.S. provides glimpse into wild and murky Bay of Fundy
Paul Withers • CBC News • March 26, 2021
Artificial intelligence software developed in Nova Scotia is making it easier and faster to detect marine life in the turbulent and cloudy waters of the Bay of Fundy — a milestone in the effort to monitor the potential impact of tidal turbines.
$9.6M federal infrastructure investment renews Canada’s largest study of aging
jason bremner • dalhousie university • March 4, 2021
A $9.6-million investment by the Government of Canada in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) will renew the infrastructure of the CLSA research platform, ensuring its progress in generating knowledge that promotes the health and well-being of older adults and informs the development of programs and policies for Canada’s aging population.
'Halifax ticks all the boxes:' Why companies are targeting Nova Scotia for expansion
Brett Bundale • Saltwire • February 5, 2020
It used to be that to make it big, you had to leave. Startups could get a footing in Atlantic Canada but if they survived they’d scale up outside the region. Opening an office in Toronto or New York was synonymous with success.