Feature Archives - 51ˇçÁ÷Canada News Center /canada/features/ Company & Customer Stories | Press Room Thu, 18 Jun 2026 00:44:01 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 How Real NHLÂŽ Game Data Is Helping Students Build Analytical Skills for the Future /canada/2026/04/how-real-nhl-game-data-is-helping-students-build-analytical-skills-for-the-future/ Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:52:39 +0000 /canada/?p=3296 Today, educators across disciplines face a common challenge: preparing students with the analytical skills employers increasingly demand. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs...

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Today, educators across disciplines face a common challenge: preparing students with the analytical skills employers increasingly demand.

According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report, analytical thinking ranks as the top sought-after skill in the job market. Yet traditional teaching often struggles to connect theory with practice in a way that truly engages students.

It’s not a shortage of content or tools; rather, it is a gap in relevance and inspiration that leaves students disengaged from the very skills that could define their careers. Learning needs to be anchored in real-world data, meaningful contexts, and hands-on experience that sparks curiosity and excitement. The best learning doesn’t come from memorizing concepts, it comes from doing, especially when theory is tied to a topic that learners care about.

This is where , in collaboration with the NHL, comes in.

We have created a new Business Builders game that brings hockey into the classroom—not just as a sport, but as a rich, real-world data environment for teaching analytics and critical thinking.

In this latest edition of games under the Business Builders umbrella, students take on the role of a hockey analyst responsible for identifying the factors that drive goal scoring using real NHL Game data.

“Hockey is fast, dynamic, and full of rich data, a perfect environment for teaching critical thinking,” said Brant Berglund, senior director of Coaching and GM Technology at the NHL. “Leveraging a strategic partnership with NHL, SAP, and HEC Montréal, we’ve created a pathway for universities to access approved NHL.com data for academic initiatives, without compromising the integrity of the League‘s data.”

Through our collaboration with the NHL, we provide a learning platform for educators that is full of authentic data students can relate to. The NHL generates just under 1.5 million data points per game, including about 120 shot attempts, 1,000 passes, and 5,000 puck touches—raw material for deep, practical analysis.

Business Builders can ignite an interest in STEM and help students build real data skills. The hockey-focused game was developed by the team at ERPsim Lab at HEC MontrĂŠal led by Prof. Pierre-Majorique LĂŠger, as well as the support of academics from other universities. This reinforces a core principle of Business Builders: It is created by educators, for educators.

“When the question feels meaningful, learners lean in, stay focused, and keep pushing forward,” Léger explained. “For students in sport management or business management, real sport data can also elevate the learning experience. It adds context, complexity, and constraints that traditional teaching methods cannot provide. Students learn to judge what truly matters, justify their decisions, and manage trade-offs. This develops professional judgment, confidence in analytics, and the ability to communicate strategy and decisions clearly. These skills translate directly to real careers in sport management and business.”

Students explore questions such as:

  • What sets top NHL scorers apart?
  • Does shot angle affect scoring?
  • Which NHL players lead in goals scored, and from what distances?
  • Which shot speeds and shot types yield the highest goal conversion rates?

By analyzing these scenarios with 51ˇçÁ÷Analytics Cloud, students learn to interpret visualizations, tell compelling data stories, and sharpen their data-driven decision-making and critical-thinking skills.

For professors, the platform is equally powerful. Business Builders supports active learning at scale by enabling educators to manage and evaluate larger groups more efficiently while gaining visibility into student engagement. This makes grading easier, supports discussion-based learning, and helps instructors understand how students interact with data.

By introducing a modern, meaningful learning experience—far more dynamic than slides alone—professors bring real-world relevance into their classroom and elevate the impact of teaching.

SAP’s role in this collaboration reflects its broader commitment to education, skills development, and preparing students for the future workforce. In a rapidly changing world shaped by AI, data, and digital transformation, access to practical learning tools that build real competencies is essential. Through the 51ˇçÁ÷University Alliances program, 51ˇçÁ÷works with educational institutions around the world to help bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world practice.

“Access to business software and real data is essential for preparing students for the future,” said Dr. Katharina Schaefer, head of Academic Partnerships at SAP. “With free learning platforms like Business Builders, we empower educators to bring enterprise analytics into the classroom and help students develop the skills that are increasingly in demand across industries, and in a world where data and AI define the competitive advantage. Today’s learners need more than conceptual understanding; they need practical experience with real software and real data to build confidence and readiness for work life.”

One of the educators closely involved in shaping this new game is Prof. Olivier Caya from the University of Sherbrooke, who contributed his perspective as both a faculty member and practitioner.

“What makes this experience so powerful is that it all happens in 51ˇçÁ÷Analytics Cloud, the same solution used by thousands of organizations worldwide,” Caya said. “This creates a strong connection between what students do in the classroom and what they will encounter in professional practice. Students are not working with software detached from reality; they are developing skills with the same software used in real business environments.”

The result is a learning experience that is fun, interactive, and relevant. Educators can stand out with a state-of-the-art platform that connects passion with pedagogy, while students gain highly sought-after skills using real software from a global technology leader.

Business Builders is provided free of charge to educators and students and includes access to 51ˇçÁ÷Analytics Cloud. It is designed from beginner-friendly introductions to more advanced analytical challenges optimized for master’s-level courses.

After using Business Builders, students can deepen their analytical knowledge through access to , a free learning platform that offers guided learning content, practice systems, and up to two 51ˇçÁ÷certification exam attempts per year, helping them to boost their career opportunities even further.

Business Builders is about connecting passion with education. Together with academic and industry partners, 51ˇçÁ÷is making analytical thinking tangible and memorable—empowering the workforce of tomorrow with the skills that matter most today.

The Hockey Analyst: Turn Passion for Sports Into Powerful Learning with Real NHL Game Data

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51ˇçÁ÷Strengthens Compliance in Canada with Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (CCCS) Cloud Assessments of 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud for Canada /canada/2026/03/sap-strengthens-compliance-in-canada-with-canadian-centre-for-cyber-security-cccs-cloud-assessments-of-sap-sovereign-cloud-for-canada/ Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:29:18 +0000 /canada/?p=3291 Cyber threats and compliance requirements are evolving faster than ever. Canadian organizations need to ensure their sensitive data remains secure and compliant while not impeding...

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Cyber threats and compliance requirements are evolving faster than ever. Canadian organizations need to ensure their sensitive data remains secure and compliant while not impeding on their ability to innovate and evolve. By aligning with , is giving organizations a compelling, complete and future-proof option to embrace all the opportunities the cloud can offer.

51ˇçÁ÷has completed the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (CCCS) Cloud Assessment for our  portfolio covering Cloud Medium (Protected B / Medium Integrity / Medium Availability (PBMM)) and the Protected B High Value Asset (PBHVA) Overlay. This achievement is another example of our expanded investment in Canada and commitment to remain compliant to existing and evolving requirements. The CCCS Summary Reports are available through the .

51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud for Canada solutions and services in scope of the latest CCCS Assessment include:

  • 51ˇçÁ÷S/4 HANA Private Cloud Edition
  • 51ˇçÁ÷Business Technology Platform (BTP)
  • 51ˇçÁ÷Analytics Cloud (SAC)
  • 51ˇçÁ÷Integrated Business Planning (IBP)
  • 51ˇçÁ÷FieldGlass

Additional 51ˇçÁ÷solutions and services are currently available in Canada and will be assessed in 2026.

What is CCCS and the CCCS Cloud Assessment Process?

°ŐłóąđĚý is the Government of Canada’s authoritative source of cyber security expert advice, guidance, services and support on cyber security for Canadians. CCCS manages the Cloud Service Provider Information Security Assessment Process. More information about the latest process and security control profiles is available on Government of Canada websites or by contacting CCCS. Completing CCCS cloud assessments is often a contractual requirement in Government of Canada contracts for cloud services.

Why CCCS Cloud Assessments Matter

CCCS Cloud Assessments help our customers manage risk in a shared responsibility model enabling them to confidently rely on 51ˇçÁ÷to securely store and process sensitive data. Even if customers do not require CCCS assessments, public and private sector organizations across Canada and the world benefit from the rigorous CCCS cloud assessments that validate SAP’s adherence to some of the highest security standards globally.

Organizations should consider the rigour of third-party assessments and CCCS cloud assessments to:

  • lower compliance costs and reduce audit burden;
  • enhance trust and stakeholder confidence from third-party validated security controls;
  • unlock new opportunities for digital transformation with cloud services that are proven to meet Canadian security standards; and
  • increase productivity, improve citizen services, and create competitive advantage

51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud for Canada

is the only comprehensive solution purpose-built to meet Canada’s specific cloud compliance requirements. Built on fully in-country infrastructure and operated by security-credentialed Canadian personnel, it ensures that data, workloads, and cryptographic controls always remain within Canadian jurisdiction and configured to Canadian standards. 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud protects sensitive government and critical infrastructure data against foreign access risks, supply chain compromise, and geopolitical threats. With strict data residency enforcement and rigorous personnel security screening, 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud upholds SAP’s proven track record of compliance with relevant national privacy and security laws, as well as international trade laws governing regulated industries. Organizations can securely modernize and innovate while maintaining stronger sovereign control over their data, mission-critical systems, and high-value assets.

Our Ongoing Commitment to Canada

At SAP, our dedication to security and compliance is unwavering and the CCCS Cloud Medium and PBHVA Assessments of 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud for Canada are examples of our expanded investments to protect Canada’s sensitive data and support organizations operating under strict regulatory frameworks. We are proud to help our customers increase productivity and accelerate their missions with confidence with 51ˇçÁ÷cloud services purpose-built and fully operated in Canada.

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Give to Gain: 51ˇçÁ÷Canada Leaders on Lifting as We Rise this International Women’s Day /canada/2026/03/give-to-gain-sap-canada-leaders-on-lifting-as-we-rise-this-international-womens-day/ Fri, 06 Mar 2026 01:09:44 +0000 /canada/?p=3285 This March 8, as we mark International Women’s Day, we embrace this year’s powerful theme: Give to Gain. It’s a call to action rooted in...

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This March 8, as we mark International Women’s Day, we embrace this year’s powerful theme: Give to Gain. It’s a call to action rooted in a simple but profound truth – when we give our support, time, and experience with generosity, we create a ripple effect of opportunity that lifts everyone. This mindset of collaboration and reciprocity is the cornerstone of a truly inclusive culture, where the advancement of women strengthens our entire community.

At 51ˇçÁ÷Canada, this mindset is a core part of our culture. To explore what Give to Gain means in practice, we spoke with some of our senior women leaders. They shared their experiences, lessons learned, and advice, painting a powerful picture of advocacy, mentorship, and collective success.

Finding Your Voice and Taking Your Seat

A common thread in the journeys of many women in technology is the experience of being one of the few, or only, women in the room. This was a formative challenge for leaders like Victoria DeBoon, Vice President, 51ˇçÁ÷Canada, who started her career in the male-dominated financial world. She recalls her ideas being dismissed, only to be validated when presented by male peers. This taught her the crucial lesson, if you don’t assert yourself, no one will do it for you.

For Victoria this realization created a driving force to empower others alongside her. She became deeply committed to helping women bridge the confidence gap she saw repeating around her. “We as women often feel we need to check every box at 150 percent before taking a risk, while our counterparts will often raise their hand at 60-70 percent. We must empower more women to do the same, because that’s how we truly grow and learn.”

Cathy Tough, Country Manager, 51ˇçÁ÷Canada, shares a similar story of finding her place. “I started in the utilities industry. I was often the only woman in the room,” she remembers. “I am a thinker, so often I would sit quietly at the back of the room.” It wasn’t until a customer mistook her quiet reflection for a lack of confidence that she made a conscious choice, “I sat at the front of the room and assumed my place.”

These moments of self-advocacy are critical, but as our leaders attest, they are often learned through hard-won experience.

The Power of Advocacy and Recognition

There’s a point in every career when doing good work isn’t the missing piece, stepping up is. Christine Vukusic, Head of Strategy and Operations, 51ˇçÁ÷Labs Canada, learned this early in her career when she was overlooked for a role, simply because her manager didn’t know she was interested. This experience reframed her understanding of career growth. “That moment was revolutionary. I realized advocacy and clear communication with your manager matter as much as doing good work. It wasn’t about being boastful or loud. It was about being clear.” That moment informed how she advocates for the next generation of women in tech. “I’ve learned not to mistake silence for contentment, and to create space for new voices early and not after the fact.”

Advocating for others, recognizing their contributions and highlighting their potential is one of the most powerful ways to foster a Give to Gain culture. As Cindy Fagen, Managing Director, 51ˇçÁ÷Labs Canada, notes, this not only helps individuals but strengthens the entire organization.  When we actively advance women, the whole organization gets stronger. The research clearly shows that companies with more women in leadership outperform on profitability and long-term value creation. Diverse teams make better decisions and innovate faster to build better products, and that momentum lifts everyone. It shapes the culture, too.”

Paying It Forward: The Ultimate Gain

The spirit of generosity is most powerfully expressed through mentorship and paying it forward. Michelle Zorn, Industry Account Executive, 51ˇçÁ÷Canada, has built her career on the principle of being the change she wants to see, from rising in the ranks of the tech industry to coaching girls’ hockey to show them what’s possible. For Michelle, success is measured by the success of those she helps lift. Her philosophy is not one of transactions, but of continuous forward momentum. “When people I’ve helped ask what they can do for me, I tell them I don’t believe in pay back, I only believe in pay forward. Remember to help somebody else, because all of us at one time or another will need a hand. If you want to do something for me, look for all the ways you can be in service to other people.”

This sentiment is echoed by Sonia Daigle, Vice President, 51ˇçÁ÷Canada, who carries with her a defining piece of advice from one of her first mentors. It has become a guiding principle in her own journey of lifting others. “One of my first mentors told me, ‘My star only rises when I’m lifting others into the light.’ I believe every interaction is an opportunity to grow and to help others. I’ve learned just as much from a mentee as I have from a CEO coach.”

Building the Environment for Success

Individual acts of generosity thrive within a culture that intentionally makes space for them. Creating an environment of psychological safety, where every voice is heard, collaboration is the default, and everyone feels they belong, is a leader’s most important role. It is in this environment that the cycle of Give to Gain can truly flourish.

“It is absolutely important to intentionally create a team environment where generosity and collaboration are the norm, not the exception. We’re better together. We lift each other up and we pay it forward,” shared Cathy Tough.

As we look to the future, the hope is that the next generation of women entering technology will find more open doors and fewer barriers. The insights from our leaders show us the way:

Find your voice, advocate for yourself and others, and embrace the transformative power of paying it forward.

This International Women’s Day, let’s all commit to the Give to Gain mindset. Whether it’s by mentoring a junior colleague, amplifying a teammate’s idea, or simply telling someone you appreciate their work, every act of generosity builds a stronger, more inclusive world for us all.

Happy International Women’s Day from all of us at 51ˇçÁ÷Canada.

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Art, Culture, and Connection: Honouring Indigenous Voices on Our Reconciliation Journey /canada/2026/02/art-culture-and-connection-honouring-indigenous-voices-on-our-reconciliation-journey/ Fri, 27 Feb 2026 16:20:45 +0000 /canada/?p=3279 At 51ˇçÁ÷Canada, our purpose to help the world run better and improve people’s lives extends far beyond technology. It’s about building meaningful relationships and...

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At , our purpose to help the world run better and improve people’s lives extends far beyond technology. It’s about building meaningful relationships and fostering a culture of respect and inclusion in the communities where we live and work. As part of our ongoing reconciliation journey, we are honoured to turn the spotlight on Indigenous art and culture within our own walls.

Through a partnership with Art Rental & Sales operated by the and acclaimed Indigenous artist , we are proud to welcome two of Hugh Kearney’s original artworks into our Vancouver office, creating a space for learning, connection, and dialogue.

A Canvas for Conversation and Inclusion

This initiative is a reflection of a core belief at 51ˇçÁ÷that inclusion is fundamental to who we are. We thrive on diverse perspectives and are committed to creating spaces where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work.

To celebrate the installation of his work, Hugh Kearney led an engaging interactive session, sharing the deep cultural inspiration and personal stories behind the two selected pieces. It was a powerful opportunity for our team to hear directly from the artist, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of the cultural influences woven into his art.

Hugh Kearney’s mixed-media practice bridges traditional landscape inspiration with contemporary form and cultural inheritance. Influenced by his Maliseet heritage, urban artistic traditions, and modernist references, Kearney’s work is a vibrant celebration of colour, rhythm, and cultural memory.

His artistic process involves layering plant-fibre shapes onto canvas, creating dynamic abstract compositions where form and colour connect deeply with viewers. Pill-shaped and cross-hatched elements in his work are direct references to Maliseet weaving traditions, grounding his art in a rich cultural lineage and lived experience.

The Selected Works: On Display at 51ˇçÁ÷Vancouver

This wasn’t just about choosing art, it was a collective expression of our team’s commitment to supporting Indigenous creativity and fostering cultural conversation within our workplace. To bring this belief to life, we invited our Vancouver-based employees to be part of the process and ask them to vote on the pieces we would display.

The two pieces chosen by our employees, Parcel and Christmas Victoria, will be on display throughout the year.

In Parcel, a BC landscape painting is superimposed with abstract shapes and vibrant colour. Kearney channels the German Romantic landscape painter Caspar David Friedrich, eliciting a powerful emotional response to the natural world.

Christmas Victoria features a scene from Victoria, BC, where a landscape painting is playfully collaged with magazine cut-outs and abstract daubs of paint, creating a dynamic and colourful composition.

 

More Than Just Art

“This initiative supports Indigenous artists like Hugh Kearney, and reaffirms our commitment to cultural inclusion, creativity, and meaningful engagement,” said Cindy Fagen, Managing Director, 51ˇçÁ÷Labs Canada. “We are honoured to have his work in our space as we continue our journey toward building a workplace and a community rooted in respect, diversity, and shared humanity.”

By creating space for Indigenous voices, stories, and living cultural practices, we’re taking meaningful steps toward understanding, reconciliation, and ensuring our workplace reflects the diverse communities on whose lands we live and work. Their presence does more than just enhance our office environment, they serve as a daily catalyst for deeper conversation, cultural awareness, and ongoing learning.

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It’s About Questioning the Answers: A Conversation with Rex Lee, CITO, Canadian Tire Corporation /canada/2025/12/its-about-questioning-the-answers-a-conversation-with-rex-lee-cito-canadian-tire-corporation/ Tue, 16 Dec 2025 14:31:03 +0000 /canada/?p=3263 Every so often, a conversation stops you in your tracks. It makes you pause, reflect, and see the world – your work, your personal relationships,...

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Every so often, a conversation stops you in your tracks. It makes you pause, reflect, and see the world – your work, your personal relationships, your colleagues, your community – through a new lens. I had one of those conversations with

What started as a discussion with our 51ˇçÁ÷Canada team about business transformation and technology quickly evolved into something much more profound. Rex shared his perspective with a level of honesty and wisdom that has stuck with me. He talked about navigating professional challenges and shared a masterclass in navigating life’s most demanding circumstances.

Perseverance isn’t a grand gesture, it’s a daily practice of building momentum

We often imagine perseverance as a single, monumental effort. Rex described it differently. He framed it as the quiet, consistent practice of putting one foot in front of the other to build momentum, especially when a project is long and complex. He noted that during challenging times, it’s the collective energy of a team and a shared sense of purpose that carries everyone forward. It’s a powerful reminder that our greatest achievements aren’t won in a single sprint. They are the result of a marathon of consistent, focused steps, each one building on the last.

Positivity is a tool to move you forward, not a feeling

Rex’s perspective on positivity during demanding circumstances was transformative. He didn’t frame it as feeling happy or ignoring difficulty. Instead, it is a conscious choice—a strategic tool for creating a path forward. As a board member for , Rex shared the power of providing a critical dose of hope, what he called “medicine for the soul.” Make-A-Wish creates positive experiences for their recipients to look forward to, a North Star to focus on. Focusing on what is possible, rather than dwelling on obstacles, isn’t naive. It’s a powerful strategy for building resilience and actively shaping a positive outcome.

Break rules with purpose and challenge the status quo

Rex’s career is a testament to the power of curiosity and a willingness to challenge established norms. He shared a story from his first job where he was put in a cubicle surrounded by old PCs. Instead of just accepting it, he took them apart, built a server, and created a file-sharing network—something he wasn’t supposed to do. His reasoning was simple: the old way no longer served the best outcome. He said, “If all you ever do is always follow the rules, you will always be average.” This is the heart of innovation. It’s about challenging assumptions, not out of defiance, but with a genuine desire to discover a better path.

The future is about questioning the answers

When I asked for his advice for our team, Rex’s closing thought was the most powerful of all. He said, “It’s no longer about answering questions. It is all about questioning answers.”

In an age where AI can provide answers instantly, our true value lies in our ability to think critically, to challenge the output, to connect disparate dots, and to ask, “What’s next? What are we missing?”

Rex reinforced that our work is not just about technology; it’s about people. It’s about improving lives, fostering resilience, and having the integrity to do what feels right, even when it’s hard.

His perspective was a powerful call to action. Let’s keep these lessons in mind as we continue our mission to help the world run better and improve people’s lives. And always be thinking about what answer we need to start questioning to ensure we continue to drive the success of our businesses and our personal and professional goals.

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Why the Future of Canadian Innovation Depends on Data Sovereignty /canada/2025/12/why-the-future-of-canadian-innovation-depends-on-data-sovereignty/ Wed, 03 Dec 2025 16:35:09 +0000 /canada/?p=3257 When Mark Carney outlined the priorities of his Major Projects Office (MPO), one vital word stood out: sovereignty. As the Calgary-headquartered MPO sets about key...

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When Mark Carney outlined the priorities of his Major Projects Office (MPO), one vital word stood out: sovereignty.

As the Calgary-headquartered MPO sets about key innovation projects aimed at bolstering our nation’s future economic resilience – from nuclear reactors to high-speed rail – the PM has been keen to highlight the significance of establishing sovereign cloud capabilities as part of the nation’s digital backbone.

This would, he said “build compute capacity and data centres that we need to underpin Canada’s competitiveness, to protect our security, and to boost our independence and sovereignty… This will give Canada independent control over advanced computing power while reinforcing our leadership in AI and quantum.”

Sovereign innovation

The intrinsic link between data sovereignty and Canada’s ability to innovate is the most important technology consideration facing us today.

At a time of growing cyber threat and geopolitical tension, our organizations need secure infrastructure that can support cutting-edge innovation, while ensuring complete data integrity and operational resilience.

For many, the obvious strategy is to stick with traditional on-premises IT infrastructure – keeping all data and workloads safely within the walls of the organization.

However, in the era of rapidly advancing AI, only cloud services can provide the scalable, cost-efficient future-ready features and capabilities necessary for cutting-edge innovation.  That’s why sovereign cloud is a priority for the MPO – and should be for all our innovative organizations.

So, what does a future-ready sovereign cloud look like? What qualities and capabilities should it have?

At SAP, we have over 20 years of experience in designing and operating sovereign clouds at scale. Here are three key considerations we highlight to executives when discussing their sovereign cloud strategies:

1) Ensure data stays within national borders

It’s vital that Canadian organizations are able to accelerate cloud-enabled innovation, while keeping within national borders, governed by national laws.

For example, 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud ensures that everything – from infrastructure to legal jurisdiction – remains under our customer organization’s control. We offer full data residency and teams with security credentials, local legal protection, and in-country infrastructure operated by trusted national partners.

For leaders considering the way forward, we recommend always asking “does the solution we’re considering enable high-impact innovation while maintaining full visibility, auditability and in-region data control?”

2) Demand compliance with national regulations

The nation’s innovative organizations – particularly those in the public sector responsible for elements of our critical national infrastructure – need cloud platforms that align with Canada’s rules and values.

The First Nations Information Governance Centre, for example, has emphasized the principles of Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession (OCAP) to serve as a foundation for Indigenous data sovereignty in Canada – guiding research and data collection involving First Nations.

At SAP, we share the commitment to aligning with local laws, frameworks and principles. We have, for instance, developed our Sovereign Cloud to enable compliance with the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (CCCS) Medium Cloud Security Profile and the additional Protected B High Value Asset (PBHVA) overlay, along with personal data privacy laws including PIPEDA, GDPR and Quebec Law 25.

Close scrutiny of the compliance alignment of sovereign cloud solutions is vital if organizations are to pursue cloud-driven innovation for Canada with confidence.

3. Adopt sovereign cloud fit for the AI future

To meet Mark Carney’s goal of “reinforcing our leadership in AI”, Canada needs infrastructure that safeguards data sovereignty and enables unbounded future innovation.

This means being able to train, deploy and govern the very latest AI models securely, at speed, without any foreign exposure.

It also means leveraging sovereign cloud solutions into which functional innovations are continuously flowing, so organizations always have access to the latest capabilities. In this context, being locked into a vendor solution that doesn’t evolve alongside AI will prove a considerable risk.

At SAP, our innovations are continuously applied to our Sovereign Cloud, and our dedicated local teams ensure the service adapts to ever-changing security and compliance requirements. We have committed over €20 billion in additional investments by 2035 to further expand solution and regional coverage.

In our view, leaders should always insist on seeing a roadmap for the incorporation of future AI technologies into any sovereign cloud solutions they are considering.

Economic uplift

In the lead up to the federal election of early 2025, the Council of Canadian Innovators published a letter, signed by 150 technology executives. It urged parties to define their plans “to build a more sovereign, more resilient, and more prosperous Canada” in response to what it called the “greatest economic crisis our country has faced since the Second World War.”

Developing future-fit sovereign cloud capabilities, to underpin our most innovative public and private organizations, is absolutely pivotal to addressing today’s economic challenges – opening up an exciting future of sovereign innovation in which Canada will lead on the world stage.

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51ˇçÁ÷Canada Fortifies Commitment to National Security with Canadian Controlled Goods Program Registration /canada/2025/11/sap-canada-fortifies-commitment-to-national-security-with-canadian-controlled-goods-program-registration/ Tue, 18 Nov 2025 16:32:44 +0000 /canada/?p=3253 Safeguarding controlled goods today demands vigilant protection not just of physical assets, but of their digital DNA—the vital technical data, blueprints, and electronic specifications that...

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Safeguarding controlled goods today demands vigilant protection not just of physical assets, but of their digital DNA—the vital technical data, blueprints, and electronic specifications that underpin national security. For years, has regulated organizations that examine, possess, or transfer goods with military and national security significance, and their work is critical to protecting Canada and our international partnerships. As the digital ecosystem evolved, the CGP responded by expanding its guidance to include cloud service providers, not just traditional companies managing physical assets and their own data centers.

In today’s hyperconnected world, the vanguard of innovation lies in harnessing the power of cloud technology to securely digitize and optimize operations, and in deploying AI to accelerate and build a competitive edge. This is precisely why we are proud to have achieved a significant milestone: is now officially registered in the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP). This registration reinforces SAP’s commitment to Canadian security and sovereignty, unlocking new opportunities for organizations handling the nation’s most sensitive data.

Our registration is a critical extension of our commitment, building directly upon the foundation of our .

What is the Controlled Goods Program (CGP)?

Managed by Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), the CGP is a mandatory registration and compliance program. It regulates the examination, possession, and transfer of controlled goods within Canada. Any individual or organization handling these goods must be registered, ensuring that sensitive information is safeguarded according to strict federal standards.

The Foundation: 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud for Canada

51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud is the only comprehensive solution purpose-built to meet Canada’s specific cloud compliance and Controlled Goods Program (CGP) requirements. Built on fully in-country infrastructure and operated by security-credentialed Canadian personnel, it ensures that data, workloads, and cryptographic controls always remain within Canadian jurisdiction. 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud protects sensitive government and critical infrastructure data against foreign access risks, supply chain compromise, and geopolitical threats. With strict data residency enforcement and rigorous personnel security screening, 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud upholds SAP’s proven track record of compliance with relevant national privacy and security laws, as well as international trade laws governing regulated industries. Organizations can securely modernize and innovate while maintaining stronger sovereign control over their data, mission-critical systems, and high-value assets.

The Next Level: What CGP Registration Means for 51ˇçÁ÷and Our Customers

While 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud provides the secure, sovereign foundation, the official CGP registration of 51ˇçÁ÷Canada adds a crucial layer of trust and capability. 51ˇçÁ÷always strives to unlock new opportunities for customers. Canadian organizations that work with controlled goods can now confidently consider SAP’s cloud solutions. Customers can be assured that the underlying cloud service provider and the personnel operating it are registered and compliant with rigorous requirements, helping them meet their own regulatory obligations.

A Commitment to Canada’s Secure Digital Future

51ˇçÁ÷Canada’s CGP registration is more than a certificate on a wall. It is a tangible demonstration of our deep investment in Canada. As our customers’ security, regulatory compliance, and sovereignty needs evolve, so will our capabilities. We are committed to providing the most secure and compliant cloud solutions to help Canadian organizations protect their most vital assets while accelerating their digital transformation. This registration fortifies that commitment, ensuring that Canada’s most sensitive information can be managed with the highest level of trust and security, right here at home.

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Mental Health Investment is a Business Imperative /canada/2025/10/mental-health-investment-is-a-business-imperative/ Fri, 10 Oct 2025 14:23:26 +0000 /canada/?p=3238 In today’s business environment, change is constant. Transformation is no longer an occasional event, it’s a daily reality. Markets shift, technology accelerates, and strategies evolve...

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In today’s business environment, change is constant. Transformation is no longer an occasional event, it’s a daily reality. Markets shift, technology accelerates, and strategies evolve overnight. While agility and innovation dominate the conversation, one critical enabler of sustained performance often receives less attention: mental health.

Burnout, disengagement, and emotional fatigue don’t just affect individuals, they ripple across teams, undermining collaboration, decision-making, and ultimately, business results. Mental health is not an abstract risk; it is a tangible driver of organizational resilience.

For many leaders, including at 51ˇçÁ÷Canada, it has become a top priority. A global commitment to health and wellness, paired with regional recognition of its importance, has enabled us to strengthen our programs and expand access to the tools employees need. Our focus now is on making that support more practical and everyday—helping people manage challenges early, before they escalate into crises.

Our partnership with the is one example. Together, we’re offering accessible training that supports both urgent response and proactive care. From mental health first aid to simple check-in tools, the goal is to equip employees and leaders to navigate the full spectrum of mental well-being, and to normalize conversations that, for too long, were considered taboo in the workplace. Just as important, this work goes hand-in-hand with building community. When people feel connected to their colleagues, leaders, and shared purpose, they are more likely to reach out, support one another, and know they’re not alone. That sense of belonging strengthens both individual well-being and team resilience.

This is about embedding resilience into culture as part of how the business operates, not as a one-off initiative. A healthy workforce is both a moral responsibility and a strategic advantage. Employees who feel supported are better able to adapt, solve problems, and deliver for customers. Protecting mental health protects performance.

It also requires reframing how we think about it. Mental health is not a binary switch from fine to unwell. Like physical health, it exists on a continuum. Just as a mild cold differs from a serious illness, a passing low mood differs from a persistent challenge. In both cases, early attention can prevent escalation.

Normalizing this reality, giving people the language to discuss it, and equipping leaders to respond with empathy are the foundations of psychologically safe workplaces. These are the cultures where people can show up authentically, contribute fully, and thrive. It means creating an environment where saying “I’m not okay” is met not with bias, judgement, or concern for career impact, but with understanding, empathy, and support.

This is not a problem to be solved with a single program. It is ongoing work—requiring sustained attention and collective responsibility. If we want organizations to perform at their best, we must first ensure their people can do the same.

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Accelerating AI Development in Canada: Learning from Global Lessons /canada/2025/09/accelerating-ai-development-in-canada-learning-from-global-lessons/ Wed, 24 Sep 2025 17:41:32 +0000 /canada/?p=3234 Since the launch of ChatGPT in 2022, the world has been captivated by the power of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI). What was once a topic...

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Since the launch of ChatGPT in 2022, the world has been captivated by the power of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI). What was once a topic for tech conferences has become a fixture in business. AI has surpassed more than a market trend to become a global paradigm shift. Companies are pivoting to integrate AI into their operations, and nations are strategically drafting policies to secure their place in this new order.

As the head of the global 51ˇçÁ÷Labs Network, I watch closely as nations around the world innovate. In an evolving landscape, two titans are taking the lead in shaping the trajectory of AI: the United States and China. The U.S. continues to lead in foundational research and private-sector dynamism, China’s model offers a different playbook for rapid, state-guided advancement.

Decoding China’s AI Ascent

It wasn’t a single policy or breakthrough that allowed China’s AI ecosystem to advance quickly in so many fields. It was a concerted, multi-faceted strategy built on three core pillars.

  • A Strategic Policy Engine: China’s government encourages and directs AI. The Next Generation Artificial Intelligence Development Plan of 2017 was a declaration of intent, setting a clear ambition for China to achieve global AI leadership by 2030. This top-down vision provides clear direction and mobilizes substantial funding, creating a powerful tailwind for both research and commercialization.
  • A Powerful Infrastructure Backbone: AI needs data and immense computing power to thrive. Recognizing this, China made massive investments in its digital infrastructure. The rollout of the world’s largest 5G network in 2019 wasn’t just about faster phones but about creating a high-speed, low-latency foundation for the Internet of Things, smart cities, and autonomous systems, all powered by AI. Today, China has 4.4 million 5G base stations installed, nearly half of all stations globally and about 10 times of the number for all of EU or India.
  • A Hyper-Focused Innovation Ecosystem: The Chinese government’s vision is brought to life through an ecosystem of tech hubs and domestic champions. The creation of an AI National Team spurred the hypergrowth of companies that are now global contenders, from established giants to newer players like DeepSeek. A defining characteristic of this ecosystem is its focus on real-world industry applications. China is now leading in granted AI patents, and we can see how IP creation translates into real-life applications – from intelligent manufacturing to recent breakthroughs in humanoid robotics.

Of course, this journey isn’t without its obstacles. China faces significant challenges, including US-led export controls on advanced semiconductors, the scepticism of the global AI talent pool to settle and work in China, and issues with data fragmentation. However, the country is actively implementing measures to build self-sufficiency and streamline data access. To ensure sustainable growth, the government has also made significant efforts in AI security governance and data supervision, culminating in the recent AI Plus Initiative, which lays out a clear development pathway to 2035.

China continues to push for global AI leadership by a mix of state-led initiatives and funding, a stringent regulatory framework development and by setting top-down long-term priorities. The future will tell how effective that strategy will overcome issues with regulatory flexibility, talent attraction and global trust in its AI systems.

Canada’s AI Landscape: A Pioneer’s Paradox

Canada holds a proud and unique position in the history of AI. It was the first country in the world to establish a national AI strategy, a testament to its foresight and pioneering spirit. This has translated into tangible strengths in strong governance and ethics, robust private investments, and data availability.

Canada consistently ranks high globally for its thoughtful approach to AI governance and ethics. The country excels in attracting private investment, fueling a dynamic startup scene. And Canada has created a solid framework for data access supports research and development.

However, a paradox has emerged. Despite this strong foundation, Canada faces challenges in broad-based AI training and public AI literacy. There are widespread concerns among citizens about the potential negative outcomes of AI, which can create a hesitant environment for adoption. While China embraces hyper-adoption, Canada grapples with apprehension.

Practical Steps for Canada’s AI Future: From Prudence to Action

Canada can adapt aspects of China’s framework while preserving its vital private-sector dynamism and democratic values. It can learn from China’s model and strategic execution. Canada can take three immediate actions to accelerate its AI deployment.

  1. Embrace Openness, Guided by Prudence: Canada’s cautious and ethical approach to AI is a global asset. This prudence must be paired with a greater spirit of openness and ambition. For example, the country could move the national conversation from “What are the risks?” to “How can we mitigate risks while seizing opportunities?” Choosing collaboration over apprehension is a strategic imperative worthy of deeper exploration.
  2. Foster Cross-Sector Partnerships for Application: China’s success is a powerful lesson in the synergy between state, industry, and academia. Canada can energize its own ecosystem by creating stronger incentives for cross-sector partnerships focused specifically on industrial application and commercialization. The brilliant research coming out of Canada’s universities could be connected with the tangible needs of manufacturing, natural resources, and healthcare sectors. Government-backed R&D and corporate innovation aren’t mutually exclusive. The right balance will accelerate commercialization.
  3. Answering the Call and Finding Canada’s Blue Ocean: This brings me to a final, open question for you—the innovators, policymakers, and business leaders of Canada. The time for passive observation is over. What steps can the great minds in Canada take to assess the current landscape and identify new opportunities – to find Canada’s own Blue Ocean?

China’s unified national top-down AI vision and its relentless focus on large-scale application can not to be copied elsewhere. Every nation should forge its own path—one that reflects its distinct priorities, societal values, and legal system. For example, Canada has a different but equally powerful set of ingredients: pioneering research, a strong ethical compass, and a dynamic private sector. By combining these strengths with a bold strategy refresh for adoption and collaboration, Canada can not only participate in the AI future but help lead it.

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Raising the Bar: How 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud Secures Canada’s Digital Future in Public Sector and Regulated Industries /canada/2025/08/raising-the-bar-how-sap-sovereign-cloud-secures-canadas-digital-future-in-public-sector-and-regulated-industries/ Wed, 20 Aug 2025 21:12:25 +0000 /canada/?p=3221 The Rising Tide of Digital Sovereignty As the world races toward digital transformation, Canadian public sector organizations and regulated industries face a critical inflection point:...

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The Rising Tide of Digital Sovereignty

As the world races toward digital transformation, Canadian public sector organizations and regulated industries face a critical inflection point: modernize operations or risk falling further behind. This urgency is underscored by Canada’s drop in the UN E-Government Development Index—from sixth in 2003 to 32nd in 2022—with only 23 percent of government services fully available online. The pressure to deliver secure, compliant, and citizen-centric digital services is immense. Yet for many federal departments, crown corporations, provincial and municipal governments, and national security organizations, viable Canadian cloud options have been elusive—until now.

is the only comprehensive solution purpose-built to meet Canada’s strict data residency, privacy, and security requirements. With in-country infrastructure, Canadian personnel, and compliance with laws like PIPEDA and the Privacy Act, 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud directly addresses the risks of foreign data exposure and geopolitical threats. It empowers Canadian institutions to innovate confidently, knowing their data remains fully under Canadian jurisdiction and control.

Unveiling the Power of Sovereign Cloud

The 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud is a cloud portfolio and operating model designed to meet stringent national, regional, and industry-specific sovereignty and compliance demands. While a conventional commercial cloud service is secure and provides data residency for customer data and workloads, a sovereign cloud service goes far beyond. All customer data and the telemetry data related to the service are always geographically localized and isolated to Canada. With 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud, all team members involved in operating and supporting the customer environment are physically located in Canada and are employees of 51ˇçÁ÷Canada Inc., holding a variety of security credentials to support security sensitive and regulated customers. Finally, the 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud service also meets compliance, audit and assessment requirements that are unique to public sector and regulated industries, including stringent requirements from the Government of Canada.

51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud offers organizations:

  • Data Sovereignty: All data storage and processing occurs within Canada, compliant with laws such as the Privacy Act, PIPEDA (Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act), GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), and Quebec Law 25.
  • Operational Sovereignty: Canadian personnel holding a variety of security credentials to support complex and security sensitive customers.
  • Legal Sovereignty: Full compliance with Canadian and provincial laws, ensuring data remains protected under a trusted jurisdiction.
  • Technical Sovereignty: Advanced security measures, including isolated environments, compliant encryption, and robust access controls to prevent unauthorized access, safeguard critical infrastructure, and mitigate cyber threats.

Sovereign Cloud is a Necessity for Canadian Enterprises

Canadian businesses in public sector, aerospace & defence, healthcare, utilities, and other regulated industries are operating under strict government regulations and dealing with rising geopolitical tensions and increasing cyber threats. 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud offers a critical safeguard that allows them to mitigate the risk of non-compliance while providing access to state-of-the-art innovation in a cloud service delivery model.  They can ensure Canadian data residency and advanced security, manage supply chain risk, conduct specialized audit and assessments, and adhere to evolving regulatory frameworks

Unlocking Operational Excellence with Sovereign Cloud

Beyond security and compliance, 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud opens doors to innovation:

Innovation Pipeline: SAP’s functional innovations flow to Sovereign Cloud, providing public sector and regulated industries access to secure and compliant leading-edge capabilities in the cloud.

Continuous Updates: Customers always have access to the latest capabilities without the need for major upgrade projects.

Evolving Compliance: A dedicated local team ensures the service adapts to the ever-changing security and compliance requirements across Canada, reducing the burden on customers.

The Future is Sovereign Cloud in Canada

Customers across Canada are embracing 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud and are transforming their operations today even when months ago, they thought accessing innovation in the cloud while maintaining regulatory compliance would not be possible. In a world where data protection, regulatory compliance, and access to innovation are paramount, 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud is not just a choice — it is an imperative. A new era of digital sovereignty and unparalleled data security is here to empower governments and regulated industries across Canada to transform with the help of 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud.

Learn more about how services from 51ˇçÁ÷Canada, like 51ˇçÁ÷Sovereign Cloud, are enabling government and regulated industries to modernize their operations while safeguarding highly regulated data. SAP’s investment in Canada’s Sovereign Cloud is part of a wider multi-billion-dollar investment globally.  SAP’s Sovereignty commitment is to build a secure and sovereign future which includes the broadening of Sovereign Cloud computing capabilities, upholding digital resilience, maintaining data privacy and protecting cybersecurity.

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SAP’s 2024 CSR eBook Highlights How Real Impact Takes Root in North America /canada/2025/08/saps-2024-csr-ebook-highlights-how-real-impact-takes-root-in-north-america/ Wed, 13 Aug 2025 18:41:52 +0000 /canada/?p=3214 If you want to understand how big change begins, look to the places where partnerships have deep roots. In North America, businesses, communities, and changemakers...

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If you want to understand how big change begins, look to the places where partnerships have deep roots. In North America, businesses, communities, and changemakers are reimagining what growth looks like, with purpose at the center.

Our 2024 51ˇçÁ÷Corporate Social Responsibility () eBook – – captures this momentum. It brings together stories from across the globe, including powerful examples from North America and Canada, where connection fuels transformation and ecosystems — not isolated initiatives — drive lasting impact.

At SAP, we believe real change begins with deep connection: between companies and communities, between bold ideas and practical infrastructure, and between those willing to take risks and those who benefit from them. That’s the thread which runs through our initiatives.

Championing Social Procurement as a Driver of Change

With over , alongside billions in private sector procurement, this collective purchasing power holds the potential to advance social and environmental progress. Through SAP’s social procurement initiatives, we are helping build a movement which redirects purchasing power towards businesses prioritizing people and planet over profit, creating a positive change across Canada and beyond.

Globally, this approach has opened access to a $500 billion opportunity for social enterprises. In Canada, 51ˇçÁ÷supports , which in 2024 celebrated a decade of impact with the release of a national guide for social enterprises – a resource to help them start, sustain, and scale their efforts.

By shifting supply chains to prioritize impact, businesses can help build a more resilient and inclusive economy.

Rethinking Procurement for a Better World

What if every business decision could make a difference? That’s one idea being discussed by our CPO Think Tanks – a global initiative uniting Chief Procurement Officers and supported by SAP. From Johannesburg to Ottawa, social enterprises, sustainable suppliers, and industry procurement leaders gathered to reimagine the role of procurement. These sessions offered pragmatic ways for businesses to rethink sourcing as a tool for resilience, community support, employee and customer engagement, and long-term value creation.

It’s a simple but powerful shift: procurement can drive impact.

Immersive Learning with Purpose: The Skill Immersion Lab

Launched in 2021 in partnership with , the Skill Immersion Lab continues to reimagine how technology can empower educators and young people across the United States. In 2024, 51ˇçÁ÷and JFF focused on scaling their impact, deepening engagement with educators, and surfacing real-world stories of growth and transformation.

One of the year’s key milestones was the launch of the , a dynamic digital platform highlighting more than 550 stories from students and educators across four years. These insights, centered around emotional growth, co-creation, and the shifting role of educators, are shaping how immersive learning is adopted at scale.

Expanding Impact Through Partnership: 51ˇçÁ÷and NPower Canada

Additionally, through a new partnership launched in 2024, 51ˇçÁ÷is supporting NPower Canada in its mission to seekers access digital skills training and meaningful employment. By enabling NPower’s core programs and alumni services, 51ˇçÁ÷is contributing to a more inclusive and resilient workforce.

One of the many lives impacted is that of Ehiwe Idehen. Diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer and adjusting to a new start in Ottawa, Ehiwe joined NPower’s Junior IT Analyst program in 2023 during an incredibly challenging time. With access to mentorship, certifications, and professional development, he found a path forward. Today, he’s in remission and thriving as a Scrum Master and Technical Project Manager at ADGA Group Consultants.

What’s clear to us at 51ˇçÁ÷is that impact doesn’t scale through vision alone, but through ecosystems, standards that build trust, and partnerships that unlock lasting value. We invite you to explore our 2024 CSR eBook and see for yourself what’s possible when we all collaborate and when we choose to help make the world run better, together.

[Read the 2024 51ˇçÁ÷CSR eBook]:

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Leading by Example: 51ˇçÁ÷Named One of Canada’s Top 10 International Corporate Citizens /canada/2025/06/leading-by-example-sap-named-one-of-canadas-best-50-corporate-citizens/ Wed, 25 Jun 2025 12:15:48 +0000 /canada/?p=3204 Corporate Knights has unveiled its 2025 list of Canada’s Top 10 International Corporate Citizens, and 51ˇçÁ÷Canada is proudly among the honorees. This recognition is...

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has unveiled its 2025 list of , and 51ˇçÁ÷Canada is proudly among the honorees. This recognition is a clear signal that SAP’s deep-rooted sustainability commitments for our customers and ourselves, as well as our transformative approach to responsible business are resonating where it matters most.

A Meaningful Milestone

The Corporate Citizen ranking, drawn from nearly 350 major Canadian corporations, considers both the percentage of sustainable investments and revenues and a series of 23 detailed performance metrics. SAP’s inclusion is an indicator that the company is not only investing in the right areas but also yielding results that contribute meaningfully to a sustainable economy.

According to Corporate Knights, top performers like 51ˇçÁ÷are catalyzing a national shift that saw economy-wide sustainable investments grow by 97 percent between 2019 and 2023.

SAP’s sustainability strategy runs deeper than surface-level initiatives. At the heart of our success is a multi-pronged, science-backed commitment to achieve net-zero emissions across our entire value chain by 2030. At 51ˇçÁ÷we aren’t just checking boxes, we are actively reshaping our operations, products, and partnerships to ensure real impact.

Among our commitments, we are operating all SAP-owned data centers with 100 percent renewable electricity, enhancing sustainable event practices including eliminating single-use plastics and promoting locally sourced catering, and supporting a circular economy by designing systems that reduce waste and regenerate natural systems

Helping Others Be Better, Too

51ˇçÁ÷recognizes that global sustainability isn’t a solo effort. That’s why we have developed an ecosystem of sustainability cloud solutions which are the digital foundation that empowers our customers to measure and manage their environmental and social impact. Through innovations like 51ˇçÁ÷Sustainability Control Tower, 51ˇçÁ÷Sustainability Data Exchange, 51ˇçÁ÷Responsible Design and Production, 51ˇçÁ÷Sustainability Footprint Management, and 51ˇçÁ÷Green Token (which originated here in Canada) businesses can connect data, people, and processes to make smarter, greener decisions in real time.

Even SAP’s flagship cloud offerings, 51ˇçÁ÷Cloud ERP Private and 51ˇçÁ÷Cloud ERP Public, play a pivotal role with sustainability features and functions built into our core offerings, such as 51ˇçÁ÷S/4HANA and 51ˇçÁ÷Ariba solutions. By helping customers transition from on-premise infrastructure to cloud environments powered by renewable energy, 51ˇçÁ÷is facilitating not just carbon reduction but true digital transformation.

Leading the Movement Toward Zero

Optimizing SAP’s data centers with energy-efficient cloud computing is essential to our carbon emissions management strategy. Our net-zero commitment extends well beyond internal operations, aiming to minimize emissions across all customer cloud usage. This includes ensuring the use of renewable electricity or emissions reductions in partner hyperscaler data centers that support 51ˇçÁ÷solutions.

Being named among the Top 10 International Corporate Citizens is a badge of honour, but for 51ˇçÁ÷Canada, it’s also a reminder of the responsibility it carries. From green data centers to transparent ESG reporting, 51ˇçÁ÷is proving that with ambition, innovation, and a willingness to do things differently, business can be a force for climate action, economic resilience, and social good.

In a world that urgently needs transformation, 51ˇçÁ÷is showing what’s possible when purpose and performance align.

Want to know how 51ˇçÁ÷can help your organization build a more sustainable future? Let’s make it happen—together.

 

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What It Really Means to Be a Family-Friendly Workplace /canada/2025/06/what-it-really-means-to-be-a-family-friendly-workplace/ Thu, 05 Jun 2025 13:03:34 +0000 /canada/?p=3190 The conversation around work is changing. We’re no longer just talking about work-life balance, we’re talking about how to manage the pressure. How do we...

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The conversation around work is changing. We’re no longer just talking about work-life balance, we’re talking about how to manage the pressure. How do we stay grounded in a world that keeps moving faster? How do we maintain our focus when personal and professional responsibilities constantly overlap?

For most people, managing stress isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s survival.

Balancing work and life perfectly isn’t realistic. What people need is genuine support that is practical, not performative. That’s why being named one of matters to us at 51ˇçÁ÷Canada. This signals something we’ve been working toward: creating an environment where people can do meaningful work without having to sideline the rest of their lives.

Life Doesn’t Wait for a Calendar Invite

We all know what it’s like – life intervenes at inconvenient times: a sick child, a parent’s doctor appointment, an unexpected crisis. These moments don’t check your calendar, and they don’t care about deadlines.

I’ve watched colleagues go back to school, manage caregiving responsibilities, recover from illness—and they were predominantly met with understanding, not skepticism.

I’ve personally taken three maternity leaves during my time at SAP, and each time, I was supported, not just by policy, but by people. I found the culture made space for both stepping away and easing back.

Supporting someone isn’t just about giving them time off, it’s about ensuring that time doesn’t come with the added anxiety about what’s waiting for them when they return.

We Don’t Always Nail It

We’re not perfect. We’re still learning. What matters is that we listen carefully, adjust, and try to show up in meaningful ways. Sometimes that looks like offering flexible working hours, sometimes it means helping someone pivot, and sometimes, it’s simply offering those additional supports.

Support Means Different Things to Different People

Family-friendly is often shorthand for parenting, but it’s broader than that. It’s about making room for people to deal with whatever is going on in their lives—raising kids, supporting a partner, caring for aging parents, or just protecting their own mental health.

We’ve learned that when people feel safe being honest about what they need, they’re better equipped to manage pressure and contribute meaningfully.

Why It Matters

Being named one of Canada’s Top Family-Friendly Employers doesn’t mean we’ve figured it all out. It means we’re serious about trying.

We want to build a workplace where people feel supported, not stretched thin. Where it’s okay to have a tough week, ask for help, take a breather—and still be seen as a valuable contributor.

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The Brenda Strafford Foundation Streamlines Operations and Empowers Communities on S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition /canada/2025/05/the-brenda-strafford-foundation-streamlines-operations-and-empowers-communities-on-s-4hana-cloud-public-edition/ Tue, 06 May 2025 15:10:19 +0000 /canada/?p=3182 The Brenda Strafford Foundation (BSF) has taken a bold step to modernize its operations with the support of their innovation partner VistaVu Solutions. With the...

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(BSF) has taken a bold step to modernize its operations with the support of their innovation partner . With the adoption of and , BSF has been able to focus on their core mission: delivering person-centered care and services to optimize well-being and enrich people’s lives. This digital transformation has not only streamlined financial management and improved decision-making, but it is significantly enhancing the employee experience.

BSF operations includes five continuing care sites, a shelter for women and children at risk of domestic violence, and international healthcare operations, with a focus on research, innovation and social impact. And the organization continues to grow. With these vast operations, the financial information crucial for strategic decisions was often lagging, and the lack of consistency in processes and data made routine tasks cumbersome and inefficient. With critical operations spread across multiple systems and relying heavily on manual processes and spreadsheets, it was clear that a modernized, integrated solution was essential.

The Journey to 51ˇçÁ÷Public Cloud

To address these challenges, BSF embarked on a journey to modernize their foundational systems, identifying HR functions and financial reporting as the most pressing areas for improvement.

From the moment they went live on S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition, BSF began to see transformative results. With the integration and consolidation of data under one umbrella, they experienced a better understanding of their business. The modern ERP system provided them with a single, fully integrated financial system, enabling faster processes, such as month-end closures, and providing essential financial metrics for quick, reactive decision-making.

The elimination of artificial bottlenecks and the improved access to accurate, real-time data have empowered the organization to make more informed decisions and provide better services to those in need.

Looking Ahead

The journey for BSF is far from over. With the successful implementation of S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition, they are poised to make an even greater impact on the lives of their employees and the communities they serve.

about their move to S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition and how it has been a game-changer, not just for their operational efficiency but also for their ability to fulfill their mission effectively. This is a powerful example of how modern technology can transform organizations and empower them to create a brighter future for the communities they serve.

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Tree of Life Canada Transforms Wholesale Distribution, Prioritizing Technology for Efficiency and Growth /canada/2025/03/tree-of-life-canada-transforms-wholesale-distribution-prioritizing-technology-for-efficiency-and-growth/ Wed, 19 Mar 2025 13:48:38 +0000 /canada/?p=3168 Meeting customer demands for faster delivery, managing inventory, and adapting to rapidly changing market trends and technologies are daily pressures in the wholesale distribution industry....

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Meeting customer demands for faster delivery, managing inventory, and adapting to rapidly changing market trends and technologies are daily pressures in the wholesale distribution industry. By leveraging technology and embracing digital transformation, wholesale companies can differentiate themselves and optimize their processes for greater efficiency and profitability. As the demand for faster and more flexible delivery options increases, wholesale distributors have the opportunity to innovate their logistics and distribution processes to meet the evolving needs of their customers.

, a leading national food and beverage distributor with a network of over 6,000 distribution points, is embracing digital transformation to support its aggressive growth. Founded over 80 years ago, the company initially catered to Canadian consumers returning from WWII and European immigrants seeking authentic foods. Over the decades, Tree of Life has expanded significantly, both organically and through acquisitions.

Recognizing the need to modernize its aging IT systems, Tree of Life adopted a cloud-first approach to streamline operations and support future growth. Their top priority is migrating to a best-of-breed system that consolidates their existing legacy tools, simplifies their processes, while providing the scalability to support an agile business need for future growth.

One challenge they were facing was spending too much time pulling and cleansing data, leaving little time for timely, data-driven decisions. With real-time data, Tree of Life can better control inventory by accurately predicting demand fluctuations, ensuring they have the right products available at the right time. Tree of Life also needed to see efficiencies in route planning, optimized delivery scheduled and reduced transportation costs, one of their highest costs in the business.

Tree of Life turned to and to drive their digital transformation. A critical aspect of the partnership was the focus on streamlining integration. With many disparate systems that did not communicate with each other and mature internal processes, Tree of Life needed a solution that would support and amplify their processes, provide seamless integration, and have a robust ecosystem.

SAP, a leader in enterprise applications and business AI known for its innovation, provided Tree of Life with the tools and expertise to improve their wholesale distribution business. NTT DATA, an innovator of IT and business services, played a crucial role in implementation including bolstering the Tree of Life board’s confidence and facilitating open conversations between all partners. With Private Cloud edition, and NTT DATA’s expertise in the CPG, distribution and logistics industries, this collaboration is properly primed to navigate the complexities of implementing the digital platform and processes that will touch every aspect of Tree of Life’s business.

“We’re not just reacting to market changes – we’re anticipating them. By leveraging data and analytics, we’re building a more proactive and responsive supply chain. This means greater efficiency, improved forecasting, and a stronger ability to meet the evolving needs of our customers and suppliers.” said Christopher Parker, Senior Vice President, Information Technology and Operations, Tree of Life Canada. “Partnering with NTT DATA and SAP, our commitment to continuous improvement means more than just better numbers for our business. It translates directly to value for our customers and suppliers.

NTT DATA strongly believes that a successful digital transformation is a combination of the best technology coupled with the right people. “Transformation starts with a leading technology platform like SAP, paired with industry experts from NTT DATA, working together for a customer who is willing to change,” said Jason Mausberg, Managing Director, NTT DATA Business Solutions. “The Tree of Life team, from IT to senior leadership and Board of Directors, were ready and willing to change, and took a collaborative approach with their team and partners which will unleash new opportunities for their business and customers.”

Tree of Life is showcasing the power of technology in transforming wholesale distribution businesses. By leveraging AI and advanced ERP systems, companies like Tree of Life can optimize their operations, offer high-value services to their customers, and differentiate themselves in a competitive marketplace. With the support of innovative technology partners, wholesale distributors can navigate industry challenges and achieve profitable growth in today’s fast-paced business environment.

Investing in the right technology and collaboration, wholesale companies can optimize their operations, differentiate their brand, and remain competitive in the industry. Parker’s advice to other mid-sized businesses looking to grow their operations, he said, “Businesses need to invest in the technology that will support their future selves and not be limited to who they are today. Our approach serves as a model for other companies looking to leverage technology for transformative growth.”

 

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