🏙️ 'Maybe even a unicorn?'

A look over our shoulder at burgeoning tech ecosystems in Calgary and Victoria.

As we kick off 2023, we’re not just revisiting some of the top tech news in Vancouver; we’re also tipping our cap to the growing communities that border both sides of our city. There’s a $5 billion innovation economy in Victoria, as well as a booming tech industry east of the Rockies in Calgary. Speaking of which, you’re invited to connect in person with some of the people driving that growth. Join us on January 18 in downtown Vancouver at The Home Key for drinks, bites and business insights as part of Calgary's tech scene: Competition or complementary. Are you investing, job hunting, hiring, expanding, or just curious and want to grab a beer and catchup? This event is for you.

Now, onto today’s briefing. It’s 795 words: a three-minute read.

-William, @notionport

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Helping innovators and changemakers tell their stories

Switchboard Public Relations works with some of the most progressive and innovative teams in the tech sector.

Tech leaders know their products and services are brilliant, but sometimes need help explaining why they matter and how they will create positive change. Switchboard communicates game-changing ideas to target audiences in a way that’s accessible and exciting.

Is your team on a mission to disrupt the status quo? See how the country’s top tech PR firm can help you.

🤝 Funding and deals

  • Pender Ventures announced an investment in Traction Rec, a leading recreation management software solution. Learn more »

  • Local Web3 outfit cocoNFT was acquired by Metaverse Group. Learn more »

  • TELUS International completed its USD $1.225 billion acquisition of WillowTree, a U.S. full-service digital product provider. Learn more »

  • China’s NetEase buys B.C. gaming studio SkyBox Labs. CNBC »

🗞️ In other news

  • Variational AI, a drug discovery startup, announced the filing of two patents for potential COVID-19 drugs, created by the company’s generative AI technology. Variational.AI »

  • Dr. Allen Eaves, president and CEO of Stemcell Technologies, was appointed to the Order of Canada. Stemcell »

  • Impro.AI, a coaching and consulting platform, was selected among The Elite 200 of semifinalists for the 2023 GSV Cup, the world’s largest edtech pitch competition for early-stage ventures. Impro.AI »

  • Sustained Therapeutics, a biotech venture developing pain management solutions, received regulatory approval to begin the second Phase II trial of its non-opioid pain medication. Sustained Therapeutics »

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💡 Ideas and insights

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