A tech hub like no other
Vancouver is at the heart of one of North America's most unique and bustling tech sectors. It’s where businesses and academia unite to solve our most important global challenges – all within a diverse and breathtaking province that will leave you in awe.
So, whether you’re looking for inspiration or opportunity, you’ve come to the right place.
Now seen as a global hub for life sciences, digital media and entertainment, cleantech, and artificial intelligence (AI), our region also boasts a competitive market, global connectedness, and an exceptional quality of life for those who call it home.
Unparalleled Lifestyle
B.C. combines the best of urban living with stunning natural landscapes.
Residents and visitors enjoy world-class outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and water sports, all just a short distance from the city.
This combination makes Vancouver one of the most desirable places to be.
Diverse and Inclusive Culture
B.C.’s multicultural environment, progressive immigration policies, and high quality of life helps foster inclusivity and innovation, making it an attractive destination for global talent.
Vancouver’s diverse population brings a wide range of perspectives that drive creativity and collaboration across industries, especially in tech.
Exceptional Talent Pool
Vancouver is home to a thriving tech workforce, driven by top-tier educational institutions like the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Simon Fraser University (SFU), both ranked among Canada’s best for computer science and engineering.
The region’s high quality of life, combined with its academic excellence, attracts top tech professionals from around the world, creating a competitive and dynamic talent pool.
Thriving Life Sciences Sector
B.C.’s Life Sciences sector has gained international recognition because of groundbreaking research and discoveries across segments, such as pharmaceuticals (including vaccines), medical devices and laboratory instruments, biotechnology, and health information technology.
The region is home to industry leaders like AbCellera and Aspect Biosystems, known for their groundbreaking work in biotech.
Leading Digital Media and Entertainment
B.C. is a global leader in digital media and entertainment, with the world’s largest cluster of computer vision companies and a strong presence in virtual, augmented, and mixed reality startups.
Vancouver excels in animation and visual effects (VFX), producing world-class work for top films and video games. Local VFX firms also develop proprietary software, further cementing B.C.’s status as a hub for innovation and talent in digital media.
Global Cleantech Leader
Vancouver is one of the world’s top ten cleantech clusters, driven by decades of innovative green policy.
The city is home to world-leading companies like Westport Innovations, General Fusion, and Ballard Power Systems. Vancouver’s strategic location also supports successful export of cleantech solutions to the U.S. and Asia, with firms like BioteQ Environmental Technologies and Nexterra Systems leading the way in wastewater treatment and renewable biofuels.
Centre for AI
B.C. boasts over 300 homegrown AI companies alongside global firms like Amazon and Microsoft, supported by a highly educated workforce, academic institutions like UBC and SFU, and institutions such as the DIGITAL Supercluster and the Quantum Algorithms Institute.
Proximity to Major Markets
Vancouver’s location on the west coast of North America provides easy access to tech hubs like Silicon Valley and Seattle. This geographical advantage facilitates collaboration, business expansion, and access to U.S. markets.
Support for Innovation
Investment in innovation hubs, R&D funding, and support for green technology initiatives create a favourable environment for tech companies to grow.
These efforts encourage entrepreneurship and enables startups to thrive, paving the way for breakthrough technologies that address today's pressing challenges.
