About Us - SmartTO

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At a Glance

SmartTO (Smart Mobility Applied Research and Testing-Toronto) is one of seven regional technology development sites that are a part of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN). We are an automotive and mobility hub led by York University in partnership with ARIES (Applied Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Services) at Centennial College.

SmartTO’s technical focus is on Smart Materials and Light-weighting along with Smart Mobility, Connectivity and System Reliability.

What we offer

SmartTO brings the power of research expertise, engineering, and unrivalled access to state-of-the-art equipment, cutting-edge labs, vehicles, facilities, and expert technicians through Centennial College, and several areas of York University: the Office of the Vice-President Research & Innovation, the Lassonde School of Engineering with its Mobility Innovation Centre (MOVE), Manufacturing, Technology, and Entrepreneurship Centre (MTEC) and Mechanical Engineering Department, York MicroFabrication Facility, the Centre for AI and Society, Electrical Engineering Facilities and YSpace – York’s pan-university entrepreneurship and innovation hub.

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How we can support you

SmartTO seeks to empower SMEs to grow by leveraging state-of-the-art equipment, labs and research centres, world-renowned expertise, co-location space, and concierge-style business advisory and technical services. The expanded reach of SmartTO across the automotive, mobility, and advanced engineering sector allows for powerful interdisciplinary collaborations and partnerships, customized support, and access to educational workshops and networking events. Fill out our intake form here to get started.

Meet Our Team

Our dedicated team is here to support you and your business. With a commitment to excellence, we take pride in serving your unique needs and connecting you with resources, equipment, space, and people to take your innovation to the next level.

Paulina Karwowska-Desaulniers, PhD

Executive Director

Courtney Cole

Business Development Manager

Cristina Cismaru

Operational & Finance Manager

Diana Senwasane

Communications Officer

Wenzi Ckurshumova, PhD

Associate Director Research, Centennial College

Nikki Mobini, B.Sc., M.Sc.

Business Development Manager