February update: hackathons, robots, AI deep dives, socials
The Waterloo area may have been buried in snow this month but that didn't slow down people from getting together to learn and share!
February was a powerhouse month full of learning, collaboration, and innovation. From deep AI discussions to hackathons, accountability groups, and networking events, the energy in the community was incredible. And guess what? March is shaping up to be just as exciting!
With this month I am going much lighter on the images to focus on the content!
Last minute thing! Co-op students who are still looking for jobs. We are offering a workshop that will help this Monday evening (online). Check it out here and please share!
February Recap
Building 101 Dinner Series
A curated dinner gathering where members shared ideas, got feedback, and connected with like-minded entrepreneurs. The next series starts at the end of March. Apply here.
Cursor AI Deep Dive - MCP, Debug, Practical Advice
Builders got hands-on with AI, exploring debugging techniques and practical AI applications with Vish, Arnold Xu, and Tianyu.
Mr. Beast Accountability Co-Working Group
A dedicated space for builders to stay on track with their projects, share progress, and keep each other accountable.
Technical Wednesdays
Tech minds came together for insightful discussions and problem-solving sessions.
Non-Technical Wednesdays
A space for those outside traditional tech roles to discuss, network, and collaborate on projects.
Data Platforms & Pipelines - Feb 2025
An exploration of the future of data architecture, analytics, and scaling solutions led by Deb RoyChowdhury.
DevHouse Waterloo
51 guests, countless conversations, and a night full of networking, collaboration, and idea-sharing.
Startup Drinks KW
A casual but impactful networking event where founders, investors, and tech enthusiasts connected.
AI Tinkerers - Waterloo Meetup
A vibrant discussion about advancements in AI and its impact on builders and innovators.
Bracket Bot Hackathon
An intense hackathon that drew overwhelming interest, with 127 people on the waitlist. It also made for some amazing pics that honestly capture the spirit of building in Waterloo.
HackOS 3: Exploring DeepSeek (Waterloo)
A major hackathon pushing boundaries and encouraging collaboration on DeepSeek technologies.
The Raise Room at Catalyst
A high-energy event focused on funding, pitching, and connecting with investors. Attendees gained insights into the startup funding landscape while networking with fellow builders and investors.
March Preview
Non-Technical Wednesdays – March 5
Mr. Beast Accountability Co-Working Group – March 5, March 12
Civic Tech WR Project Showcase – March 5
Chess Gallery – March 6
Technical Wednesdays – March 12
Founder X Funder mixer - March 17
The Socratica Symposium (W25) – March 19
…with more being added. Be sure to subscribe to the calendar.
Stuff worth reading from Waterloo folks
Eric Migicovsky is bringing back the Pebble! Waterloo legend is bringing back the best watch ever.
Build Canada has been launched. Filled with great ideas including one from local founder/CEO/investor Michael Litt.
Socratica has a node on every continent?
New Stadium has launched in Toronto. Love it.
Great Canadian Founder Drain - Waterloo feels this more than most places. Awesome people come, so many go to the US for what is next. We should find a way to use that as a strength.
Let’s Build Together
March is shaping up to be another action-packed month, and we’d love for you to be part of it!
🔗 Follow us on X/Twitter and LinkedIn for updates.
📩 Want to organize an event? Let’s make it happen—reach out to us!
Here’s to another month of learning, networking, and building together!
Oh, and check out last month’s update.
Just F’n Build!