Hi everyone,
Vancouver’s tech scene doesn’t take many quiet weeks—and this one was no exception. From Clio’s billion-dollar green light on its vLex acquisition to the province’s new ban on crypto mining, the landscape is shifting fast across sectors. There’s growth and consolidation at the top, new funding for AI and climate-tech innovators like SenseNet and MarineLabs, and continued momentum as BC Tech crowns its 2025 TIA winners.
But behind every headline about expansion or investment is a founder navigating a tougher fundraising environment than we’ve seen in years. That’s why next week’s #VTJTalks: Fall Fundraising Playbook—happening October 29—couldn’t come at a better time. We’ll dig into what’s actually working right now in early-stage capital raising, with insights from founders, investors, and operators who’ve closed rounds in 2025’s reality. If you haven’t grabbed your spot yet, you can RSVP here →.
Now, on to this week’s stories shaping BC tech.
From The Journal
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Funding, Deals & More
HID to acquire Vancouver-based IDmelon: Identity giant HID signed an agreement to acquire IDmelon, the Vancouver secure sign-in startup known for passwordless/FIDO2 authentication tools that turn badges and phones into security keys. Closing is expected after customary approvals.
Read more →SenseNet raises $14M to spot wildfires before smoke: SenseNet secured $14 million to scale its AI-enabled sensor network designed to detect wildfires before they’re visible, supporting faster response and mitigation across high-risk regions.
Read more →FINTRAC levies record $177M fine on Cryptomus: Canada’s anti-money-laundering regulator issued a record-setting $177 million penalty against crypto exchange Cryptomus for compliance failures tied to suspicious transactions.
Read more →MarineLabs lands $4M to expand maritime weather network: Victoria-based MarineLabs raised $4 million to grow its coastal weather intelligence network, adding more rugged, connected sensors that deliver real-time wind, wave, and marine data.
Read more →
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In Other News
BC Tech announces 2025 TIA winners: BC Tech revealed this year’s Technology Impact Awards winners, celebrating standout companies, innovators, and ecosystem leaders across the province.
Read more →Clio clears regulatory approval for US$1B vLex deal: Burnaby-born legal tech unicorn Clio has secured regulatory approval for its US$1-billion acquisition of legal research platform vLex, according to the company’s CEO.
Read more →Province bans crypto mining over grid concerns: B.C. has moved to ban crypto mining operations that overburden the electricity grid, citing reliability and clean-power priorities as the province manages demand growth.
Read more →
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👀 Can't-Miss
This week: October 29: #VTJTalks: Fall Fundraising Playbook: Insights For Vancouver Founders
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