Web Summit Vancouver 2026: An Opportunity for B.C.’s Innovation Ecosystem

In May 2026, Web Summit returns to Vancouver — bringing together global founders, investors, media, and technology leaders from around the world. Year one set a powerful benchmark, convening 20,000+ attendees, 1,500+ startups, 700+ investors, 350+ speakers, and delegates from more than 120 countries.

"Vancouver proved itself as a world-class destination for technology and innovation in year one, and we're returning with even greater ambition. In a rapidly shifting global landscape, Web Summit Vancouver 2026 will convene global leaders, founders, policymakers, and more than 1,500 startups across stages exploring AI, technology and our planet, robotics, gaming, and the policy conversations shaping tomorrow’s economies. We are deeply grateful for the unprecedented support from the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia, delivered through our partners at Innovate BC, as well as the leadership of Vancouver City Hall, the Province of British Columbia, and Invest Vancouver. Their commitment to innovation and global engagement has been instrumental in establishing Vancouver as a permanent fixture on the world technology stage", Adam Connon, Country Manager Web Summit Vancouver

For British Columbia’s innovation ecosystem, Web Summit Vancouver represents a shared opportunity: to showcase the strength, diversity, and ambition of B.C. companies, and to connect them with global markets, capital, and partners.

 “Web Summit 2025 was a game-changer for us! As a BC-based Indigenous tech firm, it was amazing to connect with such a diverse group of like-minded people leading up to the event. We left inspired, with new ideas and partnerships that will help us better serve our community.” - Eric Blesch, CEO, 7GenAioTech

Innovate BC is proud to support this effort alongside PacifiCan, The Government of BC, Invest Vancouver, and Destination Vancouver, who are working collectively to ensure B.C. companies are well-positioned before, during, and after the conference.

Building Momentum Ahead of Web Summit

In the months leading up to Web Summit Vancouver, Innovate BC is delivering the Road to Web Summit Vancouver (R2WSV) — a series of initiatives designed to help B.C. companies prepare for the global stage.

R2WSV programming focuses on:

• Helping companies sharpen their growth, investment, and international expansion strategies

• Connecting founders with peers, partners, and experts

• Ensuring companies of all stages are ready to make the most of Web Summit opportunities

This pre-conference work is about more than preparation — it’s about building momentum and ensuring B.C. companies arrive confident, connected, and competitive.

Alongside R2WSV, partner-led programming is already underway, with sector associations and ecosystem partners delivering complementary events and sessions that broaden the support available to B.C. companies. Innovate BC is also delivering targeted initiatives, including the Scaling Venture Series, which supports later-stage companies preparing for growth, partnerships, and investor conversations, and a pre-conference Bootcamp focused on pitch refinement, media readiness, and maximizing high-value meetings during Web Summit Vancouver. Together, these efforts ensure B.C. companies arrive prepared, connected, and ready to capitalize on global opportunities.

Showcasing British Columbia at the BC Pavilion

At the heart of Web Summit Vancouver is the BC Pavilion — a shared space that brings together companies, partners, and organizations from across the province.

The Pavilion serves as a hub for:

• Showcasing B.C. innovation and priority sectors

• Hosting curated programming, conversations, and networking

• Creating a welcoming space for international investors, media, and delegations to engage with the ecosystem

   

Through initiatives like the Venture Spotlight at the BC Pavilion, companies from across the province — representing different regions, sectors, and backgrounds — will have the opportunity to demonstrate what they’re building and why B.C. is an attractive place to grow.

Connecting B.C. Companies with Global Investors

A key pillar of the B.C. presence at Web Summit Vancouver is the Investor Showcase, which brings together high-potential B.C. ventures and international investors through a curated, sector-focused format.

The Investor Showcase will:

• Highlight investment-ready B.C. companies

• Strengthen investor readiness and visibility

• Facilitate meaningful connections between founders and global capital

   

Stay tuned for programming announcements and more.