GCXpo is back – and you’re invited to see Canada’s most advanced tech in action.
On Wednesday, September 24, 2025, GCXpo returns to Area X.O in Ottawa for its fourth and most dynamic edition yet.
Co-hosted by Area X.O and the Government of Canada, GCXpo 2025 will spotlight 80+ of the country’s top innovators demonstrating transformative technologies across defence, mobility, AI, sustainability, and smart cities – live, on the ground (and in the air), and in real time.
From immersive demos and high-impact networking to the festival-like atmosphere complete with food trucks, GCXpo is the ultimate hub for connecting Canada’s top tech, talent, trailblazers, and investors.
This year’s theme, The Epic Canadian Next-Gen Tech Demonstration Showcase, sets the stage for immersive programming, curated networking, and live demonstrations that bring innovation to life across land, air, and digital systems.
See the energy of GCXpo for yourself in the 2024 GCXpo Recap Video below
GCXpo 2024: By the Numbers
GCXpo has grown into a truly national platform, with more reach and impact every year.
Last year’s epic event featured:
- 80+ demonstrators and exhibitors from across Canada
- Over 1,600 registrants
- Over 850 in-person attendees
- 25+ market sectors represented
- 20+ world-class speakers
This momentum sets the stage for GCXpo 2025 to be our most powerful and collaborative showcase yet.
A Sneak Peek into GCXpo 2025
GCXpo is built around action – this is not your average conference. Here’s what to expect this September.
1. Defence Innovation Front and Centre
Canada’s dual-use tech leadership takes centre stage in the Communitech EY Zone. For 2025, this zone will be focused on innovations that support both civilian and military applications, and spotlights the intersection of Canadian innovation and national defence.
Expect:
- Updates on NATO’s Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA)
- Sensor systems for enhanced situational awareness
- Secure communications platforms for mission resilience
- AI-powered surveillance and decision support tools
- Live demonstrations and an afternoon workshop session
Hosted by Communitech and Invest Ottawa, this zone brings together innovators, funders, and federal partners committed to building Canada’s defence advantage.
2. Live Vehicle & Smart Mobility Demonstrations
From CAVs to emergency response vehicles, GCXpo’s roads and intersections come to life with:
- Real-time V2X (vehicle-to-everything) interactions
- Autonomous deliveries and shuttle operations
- Traffic-responsive infrastructure technologies
This is your opportunity to witness Canada’s smart mobility future, on the road and in action.
3. Robotics & Drones Take the Spotlight
Explore next-gen automation, robotics, and UAVs built to operate across a variety of sectors:
- Field robotics for agriculture, mining, and construction
- Autonomous drones for surveying, inspection, and security
- Industrial automation tools that enhance safety and productivity
These demos show how Canadian tech is being deployed in real-world environments today.
4. Smart Cities, Public Digital Twins, and Agri-Tech
New for 2025, GCXpo features two expanded showcase zones:
- The Ottawa Innovation Farm Zone powered by AgExpert: Discover how AI, robotics, and IoT are transforming food systems and climate resilience.
- The Smart City Zone: Explore digital twin tech, integrated infrastructure, and secure, connected systems built to power the cities of tomorrow.
These zones highlight how Canada is solving global challenges at the local level with scalable technology.
5. Powerful Networking and Talent Discovery
Whether you’re a founder, policymaker, investor, or recruiter, GCXpo connects you to:
- Emerging ventures and standout entrepreneurs
- Government and corporate innovation teams
- Cross-sector collaborators from more than 25 industries
- Top tech talent ready to join high-growth teams
With curated networking opportunities, food truck meetups, and innovation tours, GCXpo makes connection-building feel natural and fun.
Another new addition in 2025: Preview Night at Bayview Yards
Something else that’s new with GCXpo 2025 – this year’s showcase kicks off with an invite-only Preview Night on Tuesday, September 23, at Bayview Yards, Ottawa’s innovation hub.
This high-energy evening will spotlight early-stage founders and standout alumni entrepreneurs building the future of Canadian tech and is a window into what is next.
For Innovators: Why You Should Apply to be a Demonstrator at GCXpo
Looking to showcase your technology at GCXpo? There are plenty of reasons why you should apply to join us as a demonstrator this year.
- Free demo space (tented), with power, Wi-Fi, and furnishings
- On-site shuttle access, food options, and staffing passes
- Optional A/V support from our official provider
- Promotion through Area X.O and Invest Ottawa’s high-visibility channels
- Real exposure to decision-makers across government, industry, and media
Being a demonstrator is a powerful opportunity! Gain visibility, spark connections with collaborators and customers, and build credibility with the people shaping the future of defence tech, smart cities, innovative farming, robotics, sustainability, and more.
For a complete outline of the opportunity for demonstrators and exhibitors, check out the GCXpo 2025 Demo and Exhibitor Opportunities Package.
- Looking to demo your tech at Canada’s most epic innovation showcase? Spots are limited – submit your application early to secure your space. Apply here.
Coming from out of town? Need accommodations?
The official hotel for this year’s event will be Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Ottawa. A room rate of $229.00 CAD – $239.00 CAD has been secured for September 23 and 24th. Please use this link to book your hotel room by August 25, 2025.
Event Details
GCXpo 2025
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM EDT
📍Area X.O, Ottawa, Ontario
Free parking, fully accessible, outdoor, rain-or-shine event
Free to attend – Register now
Be part of the action
Whether you’re developing next-gen defence systems, testing autonomous vehicles, recruiting top talent, or simply exploring what’s next – GCXpo 2025 is where Canadian innovation shows up, shows off, and scales.
This project is funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.