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Tech-Access Canada welcomes Budget 2026 and stands ready to help more Canadian companies commercialise

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OTTAWA, ON, Nov. 5, 2026 /CNW/ — Tech-Access Canada, the national network of Canada’s 70 Technology Access Centres (TACs), welcomes Budget 2026’s proposals to expand the Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) tax incentive and renew federal clean technology support. TACs already help Canadian companies test new technologies, validate products and prepare for production. Tech-Access Canada’s proposed Canadian Innovation Pipeline Initiative would give more businesses year-round access to the teams and facilities already doing that work.

TACs already provide contract research services to businesses. Under existing Canada Revenue Agency rules, businesses can claim eligible costs for qualifying SR&ED work that TACs perform under contract on their behalf. The proposed expansion, estimated at $930 million over five years, would extend eligibility to certain commercialisation expenses. These include testing and validation required for initial regulatory approval or certification when directly linked to an eligible SR&ED project. Tech-Access Canada is ready to share its project experience as the agency develops sector-specific guidance.

“A tax credit can help a company recover eligible costs. Somebody still has to pay for the test first,” said Ken Doyle, Executive Director of Tech-Access Canada. “Some of the firms our TACs work with are still building the case for NRC IRAP funding or seeking their first outside investment. That test can be exactly what a customer or investor needs to see before they commit. Canada already has the people, the labs and the equipment. Let’s fund the projects that put them to work.”

The National Research Council of Canada’s Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP) is Canada’s leading innovation assistance program for small and medium-sized businesses. Tech-Access Canada estimates that, through their partnership, NRC IRAP has funded approximately 75,000 hours of applied innovation and commercialisation support delivered by TACs over the past decade.

Tech-Access Canada welcomes the proposed renewal of NRC IRAP’s Clean Technology initiative. In the 2026 pilot, TACs moved quickly to complete 54 projects, helping companies advance from real-world prototype demonstration at technology readiness level (TRL) 7 toward commercial deployment at TRLs 8 and 9. TACs and their industry partners still have 161 projects scoped and ready to start as soon as a second round gets the green light.

“The clean technology pilot gave companies a chance to see how their technologies performed under real operating conditions,” said Jennifer Andersen, Vice-Chair of Tech-Access Canada and Executive Director, Applied Research & Innovation at Fleming College. “That evidence helps a business decide whether it’s ready to deploy or where it needs to do more work. We’d welcome the opportunity to extend that support to more companies.”

Since the tri-agency College and Community Innovation program began, the federal government has invested more than $1 billion through it in applied research. Tech-Access Canada thanks the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada for administering the program in collaboration with the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council. The $165 million committed in the 2026 Spring Economic Update will help sustain that capacity.

“Canada’s three granting councils and the Canada Foundation for Innovation have helped build applied research capacity that businesses can draw on across the country,” said Melanie Ross, Chair of Tech-Access Canada and Research Chair at SAIT’s Green Building Technology Access Centre. “We welcome the opportunity to build on those investments and give more Canadian companies access to that expertise.”

Tech-Access Canada estimates that the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) has invested $500 million in federal funding for research infrastructure at colleges and cégeps over the past decade. At the College Fund’s 40% federal contribution ceiling, $500 million in capital funding would correspond to roughly $1.3 billion in eligible research infrastructure costs, with provinces, institutions and other partners contributing the balance. Dedicated, predictable infrastructure support for TACs would build on that partnership, keeping specialised facilities and equipment available on demand so TACs can respond quickly as new industry needs emerge.

“A pilot run can show a manufacturer whether a new process is worth scaling before it commits capital or changes its production line,” said Stephen Reaume, Treasurer of Tech-Access Canada and Director of Research at Lambton College. “TACs give smaller firms access to the equipment and expertise to run those trials and make decisions based on the results.”

Tech-Access Canada welcomes the opportunity to work with NRC research centres and federal departments such as Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. TACs and federal research teams could bring complementary expertise and equipment to company projects, from testing new technologies for fisheries and aquaculture to piloting new processes for food and agricultural businesses.

“When a Canadian company needs specialised equipment or expertise, we can help connect it with the team best equipped to do the work,” said Jean-Philippe Jacques, Vice-Chair of Tech-Access Canada and Director of Innofibre. “Sharing facilities and coordinating equipment purchases can reduce duplication, give companies faster access to the tools they need and make better use of the research infrastructure Canadians have already invested in.”

Tech-Access Canada proposes to deliver the Canadian Innovation Pipeline Initiative through the TAC network. Interactive Visits would help firms decide what’s worth pursuing. Strategic Interactions would help them test and validate their technologies. TRLascend projects would help them demonstrate those technologies at pilot scale and prepare for production or deployment. The proposed $33 million annual investment would support about 3,000 engagements with Canadian businesses each year once fully implemented.

The TAC network already gives companies access to more than 2,100 applied R&D professionals, two million square feet of dedicated applied R&D space and approximately $500 million in specialised equipment. Tech-Access Canada also has intake and project delivery systems in use today. With approval and funding, it could start accepting Pipeline projects within 48 hours. Tech-Access Canada looks forward to working with the federal government on the proposal ahead of the Spring 2027 Economic Update.

Through Commercialisation Canada, Tech-Access Canada will share stories of Canadian companies bringing new products and processes to market with TAC teams working alongside them. Companies bring their ideas and knowledge of their customers. TACs help them test, refine and scale what they’ve developed. This hands-on accompaniment is a Canadian model of collaborative applied innovation and commercialisation that has drawn international attention, including from the OECD. More details will follow.

About Tech-Access Canada

Tech-Access Canada is the national network of Canada’s Technology Access Centres. TACs help businesses solve technical problems, develop and validate products and processes, and adopt new technologies. Companies retain their intellectual property.

SOURCE Tech-Access Canada

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Malaysia-China (Chengdu) Collaboration Opens New Doors for Local Businesses and Talent

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Technology partnerships explored in Kuala Lumpur could support Malaysia’s digital transformation, strengthen local capabilities and create new commercial opportunities.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Nov. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Malaysian businesses and innovation organisations explored opportunities to strengthen their technology capabilities and develop new partnerships at a Malaysia–China (Chengdu) technology matchmaking event held in Kuala Lumpur, organised by Intrinsic SEA Sdn Bhd as part of the organising team.

Bringing together nearly 100 representatives from local businesses and innovation organisations alongside 10 Chengdu technology companies, the event focused on artificial intelligence, new energy, the digital economy and technology commercialisation.

For Malaysian participants, the central opportunity was to identify technologies suited to local needs, connect with potential implementation partners and explore collaborations that could benefit businesses, entrepreneurs and the wider workforce.

Hosted by the Chengdu Municipal Science and Technology Bureau and organised by the Tianfu International Technology Transfer Centre, with support from the Southeast Asia Advanced Manufacturing Science and Technology Council, the programme featured industry presentations, technology showcases, partnership signings and targeted business discussions.

Putting Malaysian Industry Needs First

Technology cooperation delivers value when it responds to the needs of the market in which it will be used. Discussions at the event therefore provided an opportunity for Malaysian participants to share their priorities and assess how proposed solutions might work locally.

Mohd Safuan Mohd Zairi, Chief Ecosystem Officer of the Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology and Innovation (MRANTI), outlined Malaysia’s industry landscape and cooperation opportunities. He highlighted the potential to connect technology with practical applications through local innovation platforms and advance commercialisation.

Chengdu representatives introduced their city’s innovation ecosystem, while a presentation on Shuangliu district covered its aviation hub, research resources and strengths in electronic information and energy equipment.

These exchanges helped Malaysian participants better understand the expertise available and identify potential partners for projects requiring complementary capabilities.

Exploring AI, Training and Digital Business Solutions

The company showcases introduced technologies with potential applications across Malaysian industries, from business services and recruitment to tourism, property and workforce training.

Chengdu Minto Technology presented its WorkBrain AI agent model and supporting platforms, development tools and interactive terminals. Its presentation covered applications in tourism, education and enterprise services, providing a basis for discussions on AI-enabled business solutions.

Chengdu Haotuo Technology showcased solutions combining extended reality (XR) and AI, including immersive experiences, disaster and safety training, industrial training and digital exhibition spaces. These technologies opened discussions on potential applications in employee learning, visitor experiences and interactive business environments.

Malaysian companies also brought their own solutions and partnership priorities to the table.

Carijob Holdings presented AI-enabled recruitment and human resource services, including talent matching, résumé analysis, recruitment communication and application tracking. The company expressed interest in connecting Chengdu’s technical expertise with Malaysian businesses, educational institutions and talent networks through recruitment technology pilots and talent development.

Defendian Global introduced an integrated AI governance and cybersecurity platform, highlighting needs relating to data protection, impersonation and fraud risks, and security awareness and skills training.

The exchanges placed Malaysian companies in an active role as technology partners, local solution providers and contributors to future project development.

Partnerships with a Local Application Focus

Two agreements signed during the event established specific directions for collaboration in Malaysia.

Chengdu Minto Technology and Malaysia’s Pro Tech Info Sdn Bhd signed a strategic cooperation agreement covering an OPC technology foundation. Planned activities include AI entrepreneur recruitment, training and certification, and AI agent project delivery within an OPC community.

For Malaysia, these proposed activities could create pathways for local entrepreneurs and practitioners to develop practical AI skills and explore opportunities in technology services.

Sichuan Jianshan Technology and Malaysia’s Omnico Solutions Sdn Bhd signed an agreement covering digital property sales software services and channel cooperation. The partnership aims to support the localisation and application of digital sales gallery solutions in Malaysia.

Its progress will depend on further technical planning and implementation arrangements, including adapting the solution to local business requirements.

Both agreements provide a starting point for collaboration, with the next stage focused on translating commitments into workable projects.

Building Connections Beyond the Event

More than 40 targeted business discussions took place, resulting in 11 preliminary expressions of cooperation interest. Participants explored product applications, technical partnerships, distribution channels and project implementation.

These conversations allowed Malaysian businesses to communicate their requirements directly, assess potential partners and identify areas for further technical engagement.

The ASEAN AI Centre of Excellence also expressed interest in Chengdu’s AI industry and indicated plans to organise a business delegation to China (Chengdu) in 2027 to explore technologies with potential relevance to Malaysia.

The longer-term value of these exchanges will be measured by their local outcomes: useful solutions, stronger skills, successful implementation and sustainable business relationships.

By combining Malaysian market knowledge and industry networks with complementary technology expertise, the partnerships explored in Kuala Lumpur could help local businesses develop new capabilities and commercial opportunities. Continued engagement will be essential to ensuring that cooperation delivers practical benefits for Malaysia’s businesses and talent.

About the Event

The event was hosted by the Chengdu Municipal Science and Technology Bureau and organised by Intrinsic SEA, in collaboration with the Tianfu International Technology Transfer Centre, with support from the Southeast Asia Advanced Manufacturing Science and Technology Council. The programme featured industry presentations, technology showcases, partnership signings and targeted business discussions.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/malaysiachina-chengdu-collaboration-opens-new-doors-for-local-businesses-and-talent-302931906.html

SOURCE Intrinsic SEA

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Equinix Opens SG6 in Singapore, Expanding AI-Ready Capacity in One of Asia-Pacific’s Most Connected Markets

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Latest data center combines liquid cooling, renewable energy and global connectivity to support next-generation computing demands

REDWOOD CITY, Calif., Nov. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Equinix, Inc. (Nasdaq: EQIX), the world’s digital infrastructure company®, today announced the opening of SG6, its sixth International Business Exchange™ (IBX®) data center in Singapore. Designed to support AI, high-performance computing and data-intensive workloads, SG6 expands Equinix’s global footprint of more than 280 data centers and provides customers with the infrastructure needed to connect, innovate and scale in an increasingly AI-driven economy.

As businesses worldwide accelerate investments in AI, cloud and digital services, demand is growing for highly connected infrastructure that can support next-generation applications while advancing sustainability objectives. Located in one of Asia-Pacific’s most strategically connected markets, SG6 combines private interconnection, global ecosystems and advanced infrastructure to help organizations deploy distributed digital workloads across regions.

“Singapore sits at the intersection of global commerce, digital technology and sustainable development,” said Adaire Fox-Martin, Chief Executive Officer and President, Equinix. “Equinix has been investing in Singapore for nearly 25 years, and our new facility will further expand our presence as the neutral exchange where enterprises connect to the clouds, networks and partners they need to innovate and grow. Singapore is one of our most important markets globally, and our continued investment here is a testament to the central role it plays in the digital economy.”

SG6 is among the first data centers developed under Singapore’s Data Centre Call for Application framework and is designed to support high-density AI deployments through advanced cooling technologies, including proprietary cooling systems and liquid-cooling capabilities that accommodate power-intensive GPU infrastructure.

The opening of SG6 further advances Equinix’s Future First sustainability strategy and aligns with the company’s science-based commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2040 and 100% renewable energy coverage globally by 2030 across its retail IBXs data centers. Equinix’s Singapore data centers have maintained 100% renewable energy coverage since 2020. SG6 is designed to achieve a Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.20 and is targeting Green Mark Platinum certification. The facility also incorporates rooftop and facade solar photovoltaic systems, rainwater harvesting capabilities and lower-embodied-carbon construction materials to support more efficient operations and responsible growth.

“Asia-Pacific is at the forefront of digital transformation, with AI adoption, cloud expansion and data-intensive workloads driving unprecedented demand for high-performance digital infrastructure,” said Cyrus Adaggra, President, Asia-Pacific, Equinix. “Singapore remains a strategic gateway for businesses serving the region, connecting key markets, talent and innovation ecosystems. SG6 strengthens our ability to support customers as they scale across Asia-Pacific, providing the resilient, interconnected and sustainable infrastructure they need to accelerate innovation and capture new growth opportunities.”

With an initial investment of approximately $290 million, SG6 provides 8 MW of capacity in its first phase, delivering approximately 1,550 cabinets. Upon full build-out, the facility will offer up to 20 MW of IT capacity.

Equinix also plans to open a Co-Innovation Facility (CIF) at SG6 in partnership with the National University of Singapore in 2027. The facility will focus on advancing technologies that improve data center sustainability and energy efficiency, including liquid cooling, cognitive digital twins and battery energy storage systems.

Since entering Singapore in 2002, Equinix has expanded from a single data center to six facilities, creating one of Asia-Pacific’s most densely interconnected digital infrastructure hubs. Equinix’s Singapore operations connect enterprises to a rich ecosystem of cloud, IT, financial services, communications, media and technology providers, while supporting connectivity to global markets through more than 17 subsea cable systems.

Additional Resources

Equinix Fosters AI Development by Building a High Performance and Sustainable Data Center in Singapore [press release]Equinix and National University of Singapore Partner to Explore Sustainability and Energy Solutions for Data Centers [press release]Equinix Strengthens Singapore’s Sustainable Digital future with Additional Renewable Energy Power Purchase Agreement with Flo Energy [press release]

About Equinix
Equinix, Inc. (Nasdaq: EQIX) shortens the path to boundless connectivity anywhere in the world. Its digital infrastructure, data center footprint and interconnected ecosystems empower innovations that enhance our work, life and planet. Equinix connects economies, countries, organizations and communities, delivering seamless digital experiences and cutting-edge AI—quickly, efficiently and everywhere.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from expectations discussed in such forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such differences include, but are not limited to, risks to our business and operating results related to the current inflationary environment; foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations; stock price fluctuations; increased costs to procure power and the general volatility in the global energy market; the challenges of building and operating IBX® and xScale® data centers, including those related to sourcing suitable power and land, and any supply chain constraints or increased costs of supplies; the challenges of developing, deploying and delivering Equinix products and solutions; unanticipated costs or difficulties relating to the integration of companies we have acquired or will acquire into Equinix; a failure to receive significant revenues from customers in recently built out or acquired data centers; failure to complete any financing arrangements contemplated from time to time; competition from existing and new competitors; the ability to generate sufficient cash flow or otherwise obtain funds to repay new or outstanding indebtedness; the loss or decline in business from our key customers; risks related to our taxation as a REIT; risks related to regulatory inquiries or litigation; and other risks described from time to time in Equinix filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In particular, see recent and upcoming Equinix quarterly and annual reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, copies of which are available upon request from Equinix. Equinix does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking information contained in this press release.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/equinix-opens-sg6-in-singapore-expanding-ai-ready-capacity-in-one-of-asia-pacifics-most-connected-markets-302931552.html

SOURCE Equinix, Inc.

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Longbridge Appoints Henry Zhong as Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong

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HONG KONG, Nov. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Longbridge Group, an AI-native financial technology company, today announced the appointment of Henry Zhong as Chief Executive Officer of Long Bridge HK Limited (“Longbridge Hong Kong”), effective immediately. Zhong will lead the Group’s securities business in Hong Kong and drive its strategic development.

Zhong joins from SPDB International, where he most recently served as Deputy Chief Executive Officer. His appointment follows that of Gavin Chia as Singapore and Regional CEO, Southeast Asia, in May 2026. Together they form a leadership team covering Longbridge’s two core growth corridors in Asia.

A Regional Platform Built for Scale

Asia is home to some of the world’s deepest pools of investable wealth and most active investor communities. Hong Kong sits at its centre: an international financial hub, a gateway for cross border capital and one of Asia’s most mature regulatory environments.

Investor behaviour across the region is changing quickly. Portfolios now span markets, asset classes and trading sessions, and investors have more information to process than ever before. They want platforms that offer market access together with institutional quality research, strong technology and tools that support well informed decisions.

Zhong’s appointment reflects Longbridge’s ambition to build the trusted infrastructure that connects investors, financial institutions, AI and global financial markets with Hong Kong at its core. It also marks the Group’s move into a new stage of growth, in which its technology and product innovation are matched by the governance, risk discipline and regulatory standards expected of a long established financial institution.

“As Longbridge enters its next phase, we are bringing in leaders who have built and run licensed businesses inside major financial institutions,” said Nowa Zhu, Group CEO & Co-Founder of Longbridge Group. “Henry has a strong track record in leading and scaling investment banking and securities businesses, as well as taking businesses from licence application to scale. He understands the needs of sophisticated investors, and he has operated at the highest regulatory standards throughout his career. That combination is exactly what we need to grow at scale, responsibly and sustainably.”

“Henry’s institutional experience, combined with Longbridge’s technology and AI capabilities, strengthens our foundation for long term growth in Hong Kong.”

A Banking Veteran Bets on AI-Native Investing

Zhong brings nearly two decades of experience spanning commercial banking, investment banking and securities, overseeing regulated activities across investment banking, securities brokerage, private wealth, research and FICC businesses.

That experience gave him a front-row view of how quickly financial services are changing. AI is reshaping how research is produced, how trading and advisory workflows operate, and how investors find, assess and act on opportunities. In his view, the next generation of financial leaders will be those that can combine institutional discipline and regulatory rigour with technology at scale.

“I have spent my career building licensed financial businesses and have seen firsthand where the traditional model is being redefined,” said Henry Zhong, CEO of Longbridge Hong Kong. “Investors today expect intelligence, speed and transparency that conventional platforms were not designed to deliver. Longbridge was built for this moment, with AI at its core and a clear commitment to operating to the highest regulatory standards. I chose Longbridge because it is where institutional experience and technology can create the most value for investors, and that is where I want to build the next chapter of my career.”

“Sustainable growth in financial services is built on trust, and trust is built on robust risk management and compliance. The role of AI is not to make decisions for investors, but to give them better information and better tools so they can act with greater confidence,” said Zhong.

Bringing Longbridge’s AI Capabilities to the Region

Longbridge builds AI into its investment platform across research, market analysis and trading workflows, rather than treating it as a standalone feature. In 2025, the company became the world-first to introduce pre-market trading for selected U.S. stock options. In July 2026, it unveiled a broader suite of AI powered investment products and open technology platforms for investors and developers.

A key part of Zhong’s mandate is to bring these capabilities to wider group of investors. Products and services will be designed around local investor needs and delivered in accordance with the regulatory requirements of each market in which Longbridge operates.

His appointment is part of Longbridge’s continued investment in leadership, technology and regulated businesses across Asia as the Group scales its regional presence.

About Longbridge Group

Longbridge Group is an AI-native financial technology group building trusted infrastructure that connects investors, financial institutions, AI and global financial markets.

Its integrated ecosystem comprises Longbridge Securities, an AI-powered online brokerage; LongPort, an institutional-grade trading technology and infrastructure provider offering multi-market and multi-asset solutions; and Longbridge AI, a next-generation AI-native financial data and investing platform. Together, they are redefining how individuals and institutions access, understand and interact with financial markets.

Founded in 2019, Longbridge operates licensed financial businesses across multiple jurisdictions. It holds 22 financial regulatory licences or qualifications across the US, Hong Kong, Singapore and other markets, and has secured strategic investment from leading global financial institutions and investment firms.

Longbridge’s vision is to make investing a seamless part of how people use AI every day by building trusted infrastructure for the future of intelligent investing.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/longbridge-appoints-henry-zhong-as-chief-executive-officer-of-hong-kong-302931912.html

SOURCE Longbridge Group

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