VSW 2025 is making sure Vancouver is ready for it's moment

As Vancouver’s innovation economy prepares for a landmark year, Vancouver Startup Week (VSW) 2025 — happening May 20–23 — is helping set the stage. Co-Chairs Katty Wang and Vivian Lago share how this year’s event is creating deeper connections across the startup ecosystem, building momentum ahead of Web Summit Vancouver, and offering new opportunities for founders, talent, and investors to engage and grow together.

VTJ: Tell us a bit about your background—and what drives your passion for supporting Vancouver’s innovation community.

Katty: I was once a founder myself in 2015 and realized I desperately needed to be a part of the local business community for support. Vancouver Startup Week was in its early years then, and it has provided me connections, support, and knowledge to launch (and ultimately fold) my first business, and great friendships along the way. Even though I folded my company in 2017, I continued to chair Vancouver Startup Week, hoping to provide the same resources and support to other founders like me.

Vivian: Over the past 15 years, I’ve worked across B.C.’s innovation ecosystem — from leading accelerator operations at Wavefront to building partnerships at New Ventures BC. Now, I focus on ecosystem programming at YELL Canada and support entrepreneurs through my own consulting practice. I’m passionate about creating spaces where innovation feels accessible, where founders and leaders can grow through collaboration, not competition.

VTJ: Vancouver Startup Week has been a cornerstone of the local business scene for years. What makes the 2025 edition feel different or more significant?

Vivian: There’s a real opportunity this year to elevate the conversation. We’re bringing more voices to the table, focusing on underrepresented founders, and shining a spotlight on sectors where Vancouver can truly lead. It feels bigger, bolder, and more interconnected than ever.

VTJ: With Web Summit coming to Vancouver, how important is it for the local community to show up and show out during VSW?

Katty: It’s more than important — it’s a moment of responsibility. Web Summit will shine a spotlight on Vancouver, but VSW is where we define what that spotlight reveals. It’s an opportunity for our local ecosystem to step up, own our narrative, and lead with substance. Programs like Innovate BC’s Road to Web Summit are helping prepare standout companies for that moment — but it’s when the broader community shows up together at VSW that we build the credibility to carry those stories into every global conversation afterward.

VTJ: How do you see VSW 2025 strengthening the bridge between early-stage founders, experienced leaders, and the next generation of talent?

Vivian: We want to break down the silos. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your third company, there’s always something you can learn — and someone you can help. VSW 2025 is designed to encourage those cross-stage collaborations that keep the ecosystem strong and evolving.

VTJ: Beyond the events and panels, what do you hope people walk away with after this year’s Vancouver Startup Week?

Katty: A sense of belonging. That feeling of, “I have a place here. I can build something here.” If people leave VSW feeling energized, supported, and connected, then we’ve done our job.

VTJ: What advice would you give someone who wants to get more involved in Vancouver’s business and innovation scene but isn’t sure where to start?

Vivian: Be curious and be consistent. Innovation isn’t just about ideas; it’s about relationships. Keep showing up, keep learning, and trust that over time, you’ll find your place — and your people — in this community.

Passes are still available at vanstartupweek.ca—use code VSWxVTJ20 to save 20%