👋 We called it: our article on five trends to watch in Vancouver this year predicted that we’ll see more made-in-the-city IP — and it’s already happening.
Plus, this week, check out how an Indigenous technology company is using blockchain to reclaim their sovereignty, how a local toilet-paper disrupter is making a mark (yes, that’s a poop joke) on the hotel industry, and learn more about the $115 million Series A that kicked off Vancouver’s funding year. Plus, scroll down to our “ideas and insights” section to learn more about catching AI cheats.
And remember: we’re giving away a free ticket to TechExit conference in Vancouver, on February 25 (worth $895)! It’s the go-to event for tech founders and industry players who want to understand the ins and outs of selling companies. Want to win? Everyone who becomes a VTJ member during the month of January will be entered into a draw for the ticket. Want to buy your own ticket? VTJ readers get 20% off with code VTJ20.
-Kate Wilson, managing editor
🗞️ FROM VTJ
Read more at vantechjournal.com
SPONSORED BY BOTANIST
Botanist: celebrating Pacific Northwest flavours
Join Botanist restaurant for lunch or dinner, where Executive Chef Hector Laguna's menus depict the culinary abundance and botany of the Pacific Northwest region - produce rooted from the soil of the northwest, sustainably sourced seafood, and organic agricultural methods from backyard suppliers. At Botanist Bar, guests are treated to a unique experience, with whimsical cocktails crafted by an award-winning team.
Botanist offers the city's best group dining in Downtown Vancouver with two unique spaces including the Botanist Garden and private dining room. Perfect for group gatherings, special occasions or corporate events, Botanist offers a refined yet elevated atmosphere, ensuring every moment feels special. View our Private Dining Menu.
🤝 FUNDING & DEALS
InBC, the $500 million government fund for local companies, has now invested $140 million of its cash.
In its year-end wrap-up, the organization detailed all its portfolio investments. Its funding picks are 12 direct investments into B.C. businesses, as well as seven venture funds which have invested in an additional 15 companies in the province.
That means InBC is directly and indirectly supporting 27 local businesses — which together employ 1,100 people, have contributed over $76 million in research and development in the province, and raised more than $506 million in total investment dollars.
The fund was quietly launched in Q4 of 2020, and critics argued that the organization was slow to deploy any capital, as its first investments weren’t announced until the end of 2022. As we enter 2025, the fund still has $360 million left from its initial budget. In an interview with Vancouver Tech Journal, chief investment officer Leah Nguyen pointed out that, as a well-funded government organization, InBC has the luxury of long-term investing, and has an investment horizon of more than 10 years.
🚨 Want all of the latest funding and deals announcements? VTJ members got it in their newsletter. Not a member? Fix that now.
SPONSORED BY FASKEN
Race to zero with Fasken
As the world races to achieve net-zero carbon emissions, leading Canadian companies are putting their trust in Fasken. As the first Canadian law firm to launch an emerging tech practice over 30 years ago, Fasken is the go-to law firm for those investing in ClimateTech companies or scaling companies in the industry. Learn more.
IN OTHER NEWS
New year, new job. A lot of high-profile job hopping took place this week in the city, with several notable names taking on new appointments.
Broadsight, a workflow management platform for comms teams, announced Steve Lowry — former founding executive director of AInBC — as its new CEO;
Coho Growth, which provides growth debt for companies, celebrated its one-year anniversary and welcomed Victoria entrepreneur Jason Morehouse as a limited partner;
Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia was appointed B.C.’s lieutenant governor. She has also been a governor of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade;
Jacob Grainger joined Pender Ventures, an early-stage VC fund, as an associate.
Procurify, which develops purchasing software, announced Chad Gaydos as CEO;
Borealis Biosciences, a next-generation RNA medicines company, announced the appointment of Christian Hordo as CEO.
🚨 VTJ members got 11 more stories like these in their Morning Report newsletter. If you’re not already a member, fix that now.
SPONSORED BY AME ROUNDUP
AME Roundup 2025: Securing Our Future
From January 20-23, #AMERoundup2025 gathers global mining leaders in Vancouver to explore critical minerals, regulatory efficiency, Indigenous engagement, workforce diversity, and innovation. With rising demand for resources, BC’s world-class geology takes centre stage. Join us in #SecuringOurFuture. Register now.
💡 IDEAS & INSIGHTS
The rise of generative AI has raised questions about whether traditional college education systems need to change. Now, the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is working out just how many students are cheating with the tech.
UFV administrators investigated 407 academic misconduct cases in the 2023/2024 school year. Those cases are up 54 percent from the previous year, and mirror increases in post-secondary institutions across the continent. Even so, writes Tyler Olsen at the Fraser Valley Current, the figures may still obscure just how many are using AI to write their papers — largely because professors might be reticent to punish students for their suspected use of the tech, for fear of becoming unpopular among pupils, which affects their teaching contracts.
The use of artificial intelligence is now posing serious questions about governmental policies, institutional passivity, the economics of teaching, and the future of education at all levels.
SPONSORED BY ICARUS CAPITAL
Invest in the future of Canadian comedy! Icarus Capital (ICRS-TSXV operator of select Yuk Yuk's Clubs & Shows) is offering a limited number of share units. Be part of the laughs - learn more here.
👀 CAN’T MISS
January 27 | 🎟️ #VTJTalks: 2025 Outlook for Vancouver’s Innovation Economy: As we transition into 2025, Vancouver’s tech community faces an exciting yet challenging landscape shaped by global uncertainty and local opportunity. Startups and investors are navigating a rapidly shifting economic environment, marked by cautious capital flows, recalibrated valuations, and a growing need for resilient strategies. This event will dive deep into what lies ahead for the city’s tech sector, offering key insights into how founders, investors, and industry leaders can chart a course for success in the year ahead.
➡️ Get tickets
🚨 Remember: VTJ members get early access and 50% off all our events as well as exclusive gatherings. Don’t miss out — if you’re not already a member, fix that now.
VTJ MERCH AVAILABLE NOW!
