Morning everyone (and Happy Mother’s Day),
Web Summit Vancouver week is officially here.
Over the next few days, thousands of founders, investors, media, and tech leaders will descend on Vancouver for one of the biggest events the city hosts all year. But the conference itself is only half the story. Across the city, nearly 100 side events, dinners, after parties, and meetups are taking over the week—and honestly, that’s often where the real magic happens.
To help, our team picked out 15 side events we think are actually worth your time. And for VTJ Insiders, we’ll also be sending a daily email throughout the week with one after party we think you should go to, plus practical tips and recommendations from around the city. Today is the last day to become an Insider for 40% off, so if you’ve been considering it, now’s the time. This offer expires tonight at 11:59pm.
Also worth checking out: I spoke with Innovate BC CEO Peter Cowan last week about how the province is thinking about Web Summit in year two, what success looks like, and where things go from here.
And finally—if I don’t see you in the halls of the convention centre, I’ll probably see you at one of the after parties. I’m once again co-hosting Web Summit Vancouver this year and will be emceeing Centre Stage on Tuesday and Thursday.
See you soon.
From The Journal
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In Other News
Vancouver startup Skyward is field-testing wildfire detection technology in B.C., using cameras, sensors, and AI to help spot fires earlier and improve emergency response.
Read more →A Canadian company that began in agtech is now pursuing plans to build a data centre near Calgary, as the race for compute infrastructure continues to reshape the country’s tech landscape.
Read more →Fortinet has opened a new Burnaby cybersecurity campus, expanding the company’s local footprint and reinforcing B.C.’s role in global security technology.
Read more →Food delivery robots are set to roll onto Vancouver sidewalks, bringing autonomous delivery closer to daily life in the city—and raising fresh questions about how people, machines, and public spaces will share the curb.
Read more →
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