215 BC startups advance to round 2 of the New Ventures BC Competition

New Ventures BC has announced the 215 companies moving on to the second round of its annual startup competition, now in its 25th year. The competition, presented in partnership with Innovate BC, supports early-stage tech ventures across the province and has become a fixture in the BC startup landscape.

Spanning industries from AI to agtech, cleantech, biotech, and software, this year’s group of advancing companies reflects the growing breadth of innovation happening across the province. Among those moving forward are Amygo Biotechnologies, Auria Robotics, Butterfly Legal, FutureTwin, Metallyze, and Salyx Medical. Many others are working in emerging fields such as vertical farming, energy management, mental health tech, and advanced manufacturing.

The New Ventures BC Competition is widely seen as a launchpad for early-stage startups in the province. Founded in 2000, it has supported more than 3,000 entrepreneurs and helped introduce the public to now-prominent companies such as Jane, AbCellera, Saltworks Technologies, and Aspect Biosystems. Last year’s winner, TimeZyx, took home the top prize for its work building real-time digital twin technology to help cities respond to extreme climate events.

In Round 2, participating companies will be evaluated on expanded business overviews, including information about their market opportunity, technology, and business model. Judges will then select a smaller group of semi-finalists, who will receive mentorship and pitch coaching before progressing to the final round this fall.

The competition awards over $250,000 in cash and services, with additional prizes for ventures focused on social impact, artificial intelligence, and regional economic development.

The full list of companies advancing to Round 2 is available on the New Ventures BC website.