Welcome back to VTJ’s Midweek Memo: the Vancouver tech events and opportunities newsletter you can’t miss. In this week’s edition:
Intercepting small drones
Managing burnout as a startup founder
Get ready for hiring season
UPCOMING EVENTS
SPONSORED BY VRIFY
Listen now: You’ve heard of vibe coding, but have you heard of vibe exploring?
You probably have a solid lineup of podcasts in your rotation already, but with the world evolving fast, there’s no better time to dive into a topic that's quickly gaining traction and shaping our future: Mineral exploration.
In the debut episode of The VRIFY Podcast, CEO Steve de Jong and VP of Marketing Michael Preuss unpack how AI is transforming this often-overlooked industry. Think of it as the modern day treasure hunt, only instead of old maps, it uses under-utilized data, machine learning, and a fresh approach to exploration. From game-changing discoveries to the newly coined “vibe exploring”, their conversation digs into what successful AI adoption really looks like and why it matters for explorers, investors, and the global resource landscape.
🗓 Wednesday, August 27 | Register
Building a startup is thrilling — but it can also be all-consuming.
This edition of #VTJTalks brings together founders who’ve faced the pressures of startup life head-on — and made intentional changes to avoid burnout, find clarity, and build more sustainably.
You’ll hear from:
Lauren Sudeyko, founder & CEO, Sleep or Die
Ada Slivinski, strategic advisor & Exited Founder
Michelle de la O, co-founder, MyHomemaker
Dana Stephenson, co-founder & CEO, Riipen
Brandon Chapman, principal, SaaS Wealth Insurance
🗓 Thursday, August 7 | 🎟 Register
This networking event brings together hiring managers, recruiters, and founders from Vancouver's vibrant tech ecosystem who are currently looking to fill positions on their teams. Unlike traditional job fairs, this event offers a more intimate and conversational atmosphere where meaningful connections can be made.
SPONSORED BY FORESIGHT CANADA
New research explores BC's hydrogen potential
In partnership with the Clean Energy and Major Projects Office (CEMPO), Foresight Canada has released a new series of reports examine the opportunities and challenges of integrating hydrogen into BC’s clean energy mix. By leveraging regional strengths and existing innovation, BC is well-positioned to drive meaningful impact.
🗓 Thursday, August 15 | 🎟 Register
Streamline the patent process, and learn how to save time and money when working with an IP Professional in filing a patent application.
If you’re a startup looking to protect an invention with a high-quality patent asset, this workshop is for you
🤝 NEW OPPORTUNITIES
🗓️ August 7 | Apply
The Department of National Defense is seeking a low-cost consumable uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) which can be used to intercept other low flying aircraft including small UAS.
🗓️ August 15 | Apply
Submit an engineering design challenge for 4th year students in electrical and computer engineering at UBC. This is an excellent opportunity to connect with new talent and explore ways that emerging technology can improve your business.
SPONSORED BY BRAINSTATION
BrainStation + LOI | Founders Activation
Whether you’re building a company, a community or a movement, this event brings together voices who know what it takes to start from scratch. Join us for a summer activation featuring OHME!, Popoff, Reusables, and Sipply, four of Vancouver’s most exciting startups. RSVP Here
🗓️ Ongoing | Apply
Submit an expression of interest for Digital’s co-investment program, designed for projects focused on unlocking the opportunities in the mining and energy sectors.
SPONSORED BY REOTECH CONSTRUCTION
Is it time to upgrade your office? Whether you're setting up your first office or upgrading to something bigger, committing to a new space is a significant step. Reotech Construction can help. Read the full article here.
👋 YOUR COMMUNITY
🗣 VTJ Community Slack | Can’t make it to any in-person events? Network and chat with your friendly neighbourhood tech professionals using our dedicated Slack.
🗓️ Vancouver Tech Events Calendar | All local events in one place.
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