Robots & AI: Capturing the Mainstream Zeitgeist
One key takeaway from the recent ALL IN conference in Montreal is that robots and AI have permeated the mainstream zeitgeist. Even within my professional career, robotics and AI once belonged solely to science fiction and academic research. Now, they’re everywhere.
Today, these technologies are transforming all sectors. From predictive maintenance for mining to analyzing social media for product trends to mobile robots in vertical farms to computer vision for agricultural quality assurance, the widespread adoption and presence of these innovations across diverse industries is incredible.
Many consumers might not even realize their daily interactions with robotics and AI. Whether voice assistants, automated customer service chatbots, or backend automation in warehouses, intelligent systems are reshaping our experiences and setting new expectations.
By having public conferences, promoting public discourse, mainstream discussions, and media coverage on these topics, we can better understand their economic and ethical implications, leading to a more profound understanding of their impact on society and our everyday lives.
Political Meets Technical: Prime Minister Trudeau's Tête-à-Tête with the Boston Dynamics Spot Robot
At the ALL IN conference, I demoed the Boston Dynamics Spot robot with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. While some might see it as a photo opportunity, I see it as a start for government officials to understand better what’s next.
Robotics and AI will inevitably influence jobs, prompting both creation and loss. As we promote the integration of these systems for a safer, more efficient world, it's essential to address societal ethics and ensure opportunities for those displaced by automation.
Learn More: Watch Dr. Nicholas Nadeau’s webinar on leveraging AI in manufacturing and addressing the pivotal 'Four D's' of robotics and AI in the evolving labour landscape.
When Robots Crafts Art: Acrylic Robotics on Dragons’ Den
In a completely different domain, my portfolio company, Acrylic Robotics, recently showcased their system on "Dragons’ Den."
Seeing such deep tech in mainstream media, where art is concerned, raises intriguing questions. What differentiates human creativity from machine-assisted art? Can these robots enhance artists' abilities and pioneer new artistic genres?
This human-robot collaboration goes beyond industrial application, prompting us to question society's evolving values surrounding efficiency and creativity.
Venture Capital's Newfound Interest in Hard Tech
Regardless of politics or mainstream TV, hard tech startups need financial support to survive, and it's great to see a recent tangible shift in the venture capital landscape. New funds like HCVC and i4 Capital and initiatives like the BDC’s Deep Tech fund support this often-overlooked sector.
Historically, VCs leaned towards software startups, given their low capital requirements, scalability, and simplicity. However, there's a discernible shift towards long-term, impactful solutions, particularly in hard tech.
A great example of this shift is Relocalize, a startup that aims to redefine food distribution. With a recent funding round of $4.78 million, they are poised to eliminate the "electric middle mile," spearheading the movement towards decarbonization and hyper-local food distribution.
This transformative investment approach promises a more sustainable future, predominantly driven by robotics and AI.