Morning everyone,
The big news this week came out of Ottawa. Canada released its national AI strategy — a six-pillar plan that sets an ambitious target of increasing business AI adoption from 12% today to 60% by 2034, with nearly $200 billion in projected GDP gains and up to 250,000 new jobs on the horizon. We'll have an in-depth look at what it means for Vancouver's tech ecosystem this week.
And if you want to join B.C.'s AI leaders to break down the strategy in person, we're hosting a VTJ Talks on June 23 at Northeastern University Vancouver. We'll be digging into what the plan means for local startups, the tech workforce, sovereign infrastructure, and how founders can move from watching the announcement to winning the contracts. Grab your tickets.
Now here’s what else has been happening in Vancouver tech this week.
-Emily
Events
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From The Journal
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Food security takes community
Food security takes purpose-driven organizations like yours to feed people in need. 💛
PHS Community Services provides over 3,900 meals daily, and is raising $30,000 to expand its Food Program.
Join/Donate to the PHS run team in the Under Armour Eastside 10K to help feed thousands of people every day.
Funding, Deals, and More
RBC is expanding its Vancouver banking and innovation hub, growing from 350 employees to a target of 1,000 jobs across B.C. by 2029, with a focus on AI, machine learning, cybersecurity and commercial banking. Read more →
Invest Vancouver has received $552,500 in federal funding to grow its cybersecurity talent accelerator, building on a pilot that trained 136 learners and engaged more than 80 employers across the region. Read more →
SPONSORED BY FORTINET
Securing Canada’s Digital Future
Fortinet is leading the cybersecurity evolution in Canada through integrated, high-performance cybersecurity solutions. Powered by its R&D and threat intelligence operations in Burnaby, Fortinet’s Canadian innovation drives technologies deployed worldwide, helping organizations modernize their security posture while maintaining performance, resilience, and compliance.
In Other News
Jessie Adcock has taken over as Chair of Innovate BC's Board of Directors, effective May 31, succeeding Emilie de Rosenroll. Read more →
B.C.'s Innovative Clean Energy Fund has opened its third annual Targeted Call for Clean Energy Innovation, accepting applications until June 15 for technologies that make electrification more affordable or optimize electrical utility energy management. Read more →
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