Panel Discussion
Hyelim works at the national level connecting high-potential companies with research talent, funding programs, and strategic partnerships. Her experience supporting innovation across key sectors and foreign direct investment provides a powerful perspective for robotics startups looking to scale in Canada and globally.
Richard Chenier
Richard plays a central role in strengthening Quebec’s technology ecosystem by connecting startups, investors, and industry leaders. His expertise in scaling technology ventures and building high-growth communities will bring important insight into how robotics companies can grow within Quebec’s innovation landscape.
Dr. Ilian Bonev
As both a leading robotics researcher and a successful startup founder, Dr. Bonev brings a rare perspective bridging academia and industry. Through Mecademic, he has helped build one of Quebec’s most recognized robotics companies, demonstrating how deep-tech research can translate into global commercial success. This is a must-attend session for anyone interested in turning robotics research into scalable ventures.
Speakers
Gregory Dudek
Many years experience in robotics, computer vision and intelligent systems. Director of a major robotics research groups. Lab director and VP of Samsung's AI Center in Montreal. Former Director of the McGill School of Computer Science. Former Director of the McGill Center for Intelligent Machines (CIM). Participation in Federal and International science funding and research organizations. Principal Investigator (Director) of the only Canadian national-scale robotics research consortium (NCRN, formerly NCFRN). Co-founder of Independent Robotics, Zazz and other corporate entities. Author of over 300 refereed publications.
Shalaleh Rismani
Interdisciplinary researcher at the intersection of AI, system safety, and human-computer interaction. I study how we evaluate and govern AI systems in practice—across policy, industry, and research—through a systems lens. With roots in engineering and a passion for dance and public engagement, I build bridges between technical design and social impact.
Sponsors
Silver Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
Community Partners
Featured startups
In this event we will cover
