Canada’s Geospatial Future: Innovation & Self-Reliance Forum at GeoIgnite 2025

GeoIgnite 2025 will host an discussion forum, Canada’s Geospatial Future: Innovation & Self-Reliance Forum, on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 9:00-10.30 AM. This open forum invites all participants to join in discussions about Canada’s path toward greater self-reliance in the geospatial sector.

“In the face of emerging trade conflicts and geopolitical shifts, including the recent U.S. tariffs, Canada’s geospatial sector is at a crossroads. This forum will focus on strengthening Canada’s technological capabilities and reducing dependence on external sources,” said Jonathan Murphy, Founder and CEO, GoGeomatics Canada.

With an emphasis on innovation, data security, and sovereign data infrastructure, the discussions will cover how geospatial solutions can contribute to Canada’s national security, infrastructure development, and economic growth.

Key Topics to be Explored

Fostering domestic innovation and enhancing Canada’s leadership in geospatial technologies
The importance of data security and building robust sovereign data infrastructure
Supporting public-private partnerships to accelerate technological advancement
Leveraging geospatial solutions to improve national security, infrastructure, and economic resilience

Facilitators

Jonathan Murphy, Founder & CEO, GoGeomatics Canada
Claudia Cozzitorto, Executive Director, buildingSMART Canada
Will Cadell, Founder & CEO, Sparkgeo

Survey Results to Shape Discussions

GoGeomatics has launched a survey to gather feedback from industry professionals and stakeholders. The results of this survey will be presented during the forum, providing valuable data to guide discussions on how Canada’s geospatial ecosystem can adapt to global shifts. The survey focuses on the impact of trade tensions, the role of open data, and the future direction of Canada’s geospatial sector.

If you haven’t taken the survey yet, click here to take the survey now and share your feedback and help shape the future of our industry.

Participation Format

The forum will take place in a roundtable-style format, encouraging active participation from all attendees. This open discussion format will allow for meaningful exchanges, with no traditional stage or set panels. Instead, the session will focus on collaborative dialogue, making it a unique opportunity for everyone to contribute ideas and insights on Canada’s geospatial future.

Join the Conversation

This forum is a unique opportunity to contribute to the shaping of Canada’s geospatial future. Whether you are a government representative, an industry innovator, or a student, your participation is crucial to building a more self-reliant and innovative Canadian geospatial ecosystem. We look forward to the insightful conversations and collaborative efforts that will unfold.

For more information about GeoIgnite 2025 and to register for the event, visit www.geoignite.ca.