Hundreds of B.C. companies to be showcased as international tech leaders return to Vancouver for one of the world’s most influential innovation events
British Columbia’s technology sector is preparing to welcome the world once again as global leaders, investors, entrepreneurs and media gather this week at the Vancouver Convention Centre for Web Summit Vancouver (May 11–14, 2026).
Returning for its second year, Web Summit Vancouver builds on a strong inaugural edition and will bring together more than 20,000 attendees, 1,500 startups including over 400 from across the province, and participants from over 120 countries, reinforcing British Columbia’s position as a leading global hub for innovation.
B.C. companies—including a strong cohort of high-growth startups—will showcase their technologies, services and investment opportunities across key sectors such as AI and quantum, cleantech, life sciences, and digital media.
Described as the “Olympics of Tech,” Web Summit convenes global leaders shaping the future of technology, offering a platform for companies to connect with international capital, customers and partners. For British Columbia, the event represents a significant opportunity to expand global reach, attract investment, and strengthen long-term economic growth.
Web Summit selected Vancouver as its North American host city for a three-year run (2025–2027), supported by partners including PacifiCan, Destination Vancouver, the City of Vancouver, Invest Vancouver, Innovate BC, and the Province of British Columbia.
Preparing B.C. companies for the global stage
In advance of Web Summit Vancouver, Innovate BC delivered the Road to Web Summit Vancouver (R2WSV)—a province-wide initiative designed to help B.C. companies maximize their participation and outcomes at the conference and beyond.
“Global investors and industry leaders are actively looking for innovation in areas where B.C. excels, and Web Summit Vancouver puts our companies front and centre with proven technologies to showcase,” said Peter Cowan, President and CEO, Innovate BC. “The conference has sparked unprecedented collaboration across government, industry and the innovation community, creating new opportunities for B.C. companies to access capital, grow internationally and drive economic impact here in the province.”
R2WSV is delivered through a combination of Innovate BC-led programming as well as initiatives facilitated by key delivery partners from across the province, offering targeted programs, events and training opportunities that supports companies in refining their growth strategies, strengthening investor readiness, and building connections with global partners.
Key Innovate BC-led programming includes:
These initiatives are designed to ensure B.C. companies arrive at Web Summit Vancouver prepared, connected and positioned to compete on a global stage.
Showcasing B.C. innovation
At the conference, the BC Pavilion will return as a central hub on the exhibit floor, highlighting the province’s innovation ecosystem through company showcases, programming, and meetings with international stakeholders.
A key feature of the Pavilion is the B.C. Venture Spotlight, where companies from across the province will showcase their technologies and engage directly with investors, customers and global partners. Representing high-growth sectors such as AI and quantum, cleantech, life sciences, creative tech, agritech and oceantech, the Venture Spotlight will demonstrate the breadth and strength of innovation across British Columbia.
The Pavilion will also host the B.C. Founder Faceoff: The $10K Pitch Competition, a live event featuring some of the province’s most promising startups. Following preliminary rounds, top ventures will advance to a live finale, pitching to a panel of expert judges for a $10,000 prize and the opportunity to gain visibility on an international stage.
In addition, curated experiences such as investor-focused tours and ecosystem programming will provide visiting delegates with direct exposure to B.C.’s leading research institutions, companies and innovation clusters.
A global opportunity for B.C.
As one of Canada’s fastest-growing industries, the technology sector plays a critical role in British Columbia’s economic future. Web Summit Vancouver 2026 represents a unique opportunity to showcase the province’s talent, innovation and ambition to a global audience—while strengthening connections that drive investment, trade and job creation.
Behind B.C.’s presence at Web Summit Vancouver is a powerful alliance of government and industry leaders—including the Government of Canada through PacifiCan, the Province of British Columbia, Innovate BC, the City of Vancouver, Invest Vancouver, and Destination Vancouver—working together to amplify the province’s global impact.
By aligning efforts across all levels of government and the innovation ecosystem, this partnership is driving a coordinated push to elevate B.C.’s tech sector on the world stage—unlocking new opportunities for companies to scale internationally, attracting global investment, and accelerating the creation of high-quality jobs across the province.
QUOTES
The Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada
“Canadian innovation is making a global impact — and the world is taking notice. Web Summit Vancouver puts Canadian innovators on the global stage, connecting start-ups to international investors and opportunities that drive growth, create good jobs, and build one strong Canadian economy.”
The Honourable Brenda Bailey, Minister of Finance, Government of British Columbia
“Our government recognizes the strength of B.C.’s tech sector and worked to bring Web Summit to Vancouver because of its impact on our economy and innovators. Last year showed what B.C. companies can do on the global stage, and this year, we’re building on that momentum by connecting local companies with investors, showcasing world-leading technology, and creating good jobs.”
The Honourable Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth, Government of British Columbia
“B.C. is home to a fast-growing tech sector and I’m pleased to welcome everyone back to Web Summit Vancouver this year to learn about everything our province has to offer”, said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth. “Web Summit is a chance for the world to see the strength of B.C.’s tech ecosystem from high‑growth startups to global leaders and our new Look West Strategy ensures B.C. continues to be a leading ecosystem for purchasing cutting edge technologies, partnering with world-leading talent and research, and ideal location for investment and North American expansion”
Jason Mackay, CMSO, Maia Farms
“Web Summit brings together the people shaping what comes next, and we’re proud to represent British Columbia alongside so many strong companies at the B.C. Pavilion. For Maia Farms, it’s a chance to demonstrate how our ingredients are already being used today to improve nutrition, simplify labels, and support more resilient food systems.”
Innovate BC helps turn bold ideas into real-world impact. As a Crown agency, we serve as a trusted advisor and partner for British Columbia’s innovation ecosystem. Our diverse programs and initiatives advance opportunities for made-in-B.C. innovations, giving companies, industries, and communities the resources they need to grow and prosper.