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Inside BC’s tech gamble
Plus, everything else you need to know this week.
William Johnson
May 19, 2025
🗞️ Hey everyone —
This week, it’s all about scale — from the government’s ambitions for Vancouver’s tech scene to startups making global moves.
We’ve got the inside scoop on the Web Summit Vancouver venue, funding wins for Verdi and Veritree, and a major acquisition in the AI space. Plus: MEC is back in Canadian hands, WELL Health is posting record revenue, and Canada has a new cabinet minister with AI in the title.
And one quick ask before we dive in — if there’s one thing you wish Vancouver Tech Journal did that would make a big difference for your business or career, hit reply and let me know. I’d love to hear it.
— William
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🗞️ From VTJ
How BC is using a global tech conference to scale its startup ecosystem.
The platform helps farms automate irrigation without replacing existing infrastructure.
Nature tech startup backed by Pender Ventures, Garage Capital, Northside Ventures, and Diagram.
Startup to shut down it's stand-alone Ottogrid product.
And early details about Night Summit, the official afterparty lineup.
In case you missed it…
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💸 Funding, Deals & More
WELL Health sees record revenue: Vancouver-headquartered WELL Health Technologies posted $294.1 million in Q1 revenue — a 32% increase year-over-year. The company says its performance is proof that Canadian healthtech firms can scale sustainably.
MEC returns to Canadian ownership: Vancouver-based outdoor retailer MEC has been sold to a group of Canadian investors, including members of its executive team. The new owners say they’re committed to rebuilding trust and growing the brand.
ICYMI…
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📰 In Other News
Canada appoints first AI minister: Evan Solomon was appointed minister of artificial intelligence and digital innovation — Canada’s first dedicated AI cabinet role. Vancouver-based founders, including those at Variational AI and AInBC, say it’s a major step toward national AI leadership.
Quandri expands Vancouver HQ: Quandri, an AI automation company founded and headquartered in Vancouver, is moving into a new 15,000-sq-ft office in Olympic Village. The company plans to add 40+ local jobs this year to support demand for its “digital worker” products for insurance brokers.
Clio names new chief product officer: Burnaby-founded Clio has hired John Foreman — former CPO at Mailchimp — as its new Chief Product Officer. The legaltech company, now with a global footprint, continues to scale operations from its base in the Vancouver area.
Plus…
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👀 Can’t Miss
May 20 at VSW: Toast Presents: Men in Tech 2.0
What happens when men in tech get asked the questions usually reserved for women? Join us for our infamous Men in Tech panel, a sharp and satirical twist on the typical tech conversation. After debuting at Vancouver Startup Week 2024, this fan-favourite panel is back for round two.
Remember: VTJ Insiders get early access and 50% off our VTJ talks events as well as exclusive gatherings. Don’t miss out — if you’re not already a member, fix that now.
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