What a year it’s been already for Vancouver’s tech scene. From record-breaking funding rounds to headline-grabbing acquisitions, and from fresh startup success stories to big policy shifts shaping founders’ futures—it’s been a dynamic first half of 2025.

We’ve pulled together the biggest stories of the year (so far)—based on views—to get you caught up on the moments that defined our innovation economy—and set the stage for what’s still to come.

Want to dig even deeper? Join us July 23 for #VTJTalks: The Year in Vancouver Tech — So Far, where we’ll unpack these stories and more with local founders, investors, and operators. Plus: VTJ Insiders can read our exclusive roundup of 50 startup funding rounds you may have missed, packed with insights on who’s quietly raising—and what that says about the city’s momentum.

Here’s what’s made waves so far in 2025:

Blossom breaks records with Canada’s biggest-ever equity crowdfunding round

What started with just 25 users has become one of Canada’s fastest-growing fintechs—and now, it’s made history.

The SF pull: How Silicon Valley shapes Vancouver's tech ecosystem

Local founders are emigrating to the U.S. - but the merit of that move "depends on what and how you want to build,” say entrepreneurs.

New websites help identify made-in-Canada products

As trade tensions escalate, two Vancouver entrepreneurs have each set up tools to help consumers support Canadian businesses.

25 startups advance in New Ventures BC competition

Vancouver dominates milestone 25th competition as local innovators secure nearly half the finalist spots in B.C.’s premier startup showdown.

UniUni acquires Toronto-based Shippie to expand North American last-mile delivery

The move strengthens the Richmond-based company's position in e-commerce logistics.

Local tech companies stand out as B.C.’s top employers

Boomi, Acuitas, and others offer progressive vacation, health, wellness, and education policies.

Exit North Ventures plans to be “aggressive” with investments in fintech

The firm has already invested in two Vancouver startups, and its general partner team includes former Beanworks CEO Catherine Dahl.

The issues keeping local founders up at night

From new tariffs to immigration laws, seven Vancouver leaders discuss their biggest business challenges in the current political turmoil.

Pocketed acquired by Deloitte to expand its grant and SR&ED services

The Vancouver-based company will rebrand as “Pocketed, a Deloitte business,” and will be integrated into global firm’s Gi3 division.

Stemcell Technologies receives $50M investment from federal government

The funding will help support the $222 million build of two new biomanufacturing facilities, to keep jobs in Metro Vancouver.

Almost made it: Remembering Azure Dynamics' electric vehicles

The financial failure of the Vancouver-designed electric van highlights the trend of Canada’s history of inventing products that other countries commercialize.

17 ventures set to take the stage at UBC’s 2025 Investor Showcase

Meet Vancouver’s next wave of innovators.

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