For a province that has long punched above its weight in sectors like cleantech, life sciences, and artificial intelligence, hosting one of the world's largest tech gatherings signals BC is securing its position as a serious contender on the international stage.

Standing in the Vancouver Convention Centre, surrounded by thousands of international entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders, one couldn't help but feel immense pride in how far we've come, and excitement for where we're headed.

The BC Pavilion became command central, showcasing our diverse innovation ecosystem to an audience that included some of the world's most influential investors and tech leaders. Expert panels tackled everything from AI ethics to sustainable development, positioning BC as a leader in responsible innovation.

Vancouver's tech scene has faced a visibility problem. While Silicon Valley startups grab headlines with basic prototypes, BC's most innovative companies like VoxCell BioInnovation, whose cancer tissue models could revolutionize drug development, struggle to get the same profile. Web Summit Vancouver flips this script.

Having world-class investors and partners come to us eliminates the traditional barriers that have kept our companies from top-tier networks. Our startups now leverage home-field advantage, turning local knowledge into lasting impressions on decision-makers who might never have discovered them otherwise. That is precisely why we brought Web Summit to Vancouver.

Vancouver offers what few locations can match: accessibility, natural beauty, collaboration among partners, industry and academia, and robust tech infrastructure. Most importantly, our greatest asset is our highly skilled talent and world-class universities, who together drive our thriving tech ecosystem.

Our strategic location provides unparalleled access to Asia-Pacific markets, while proximity to Seattle and Silicon Valley creates natural partnership synergies.

In an era of trade uncertainty, British Columbia's stability allows companies to build reliable international relationships rather than relying on one-off networking. For local startups, having a major conference in their backyard removes travel barriers and generates authentic engagement opportunities with global investors.

As companies prioritize sustainable growth, ethical AI, quantum computing capabilities, and responsible innovation, areas where BC excels, our province becomes increasingly attractive for investment and talent. Web Summit Vancouver represents a fundamental shift in how the global tech community views Canadian innovation.

The summit's focus on emerging technologies, AI, machine learning, biotech, and clean energy, aligns perfectly with BC's innovation strengths, initiating genuine partnerships rather than forced networking.

As the dust settles on this inaugural event, local leaders are calling the first Web Summit in Vancouver a success, with more than 15,500 attendees and over 1,100 companies participating, a record for a first-year event. With over 50 trade delegations coming to Vancouver (also a record), people are already offering ideas for growth in subsequent years. Vancouver is positioning itself as a permanent fixture on the global innovation calendar. We're transforming from a beautiful Pacific destination into a must-visit hub for serious technologists.

For the thousands who experienced the first Web Summit Vancouver, one thing became clear: British Columbia is emerging as the economic engine of the new Canada, and innovation is at the heart of this transformation, positioning us as a global destination for tech talent and investment.

In these uncertain times, as Trump once again threatens Canadian jobs, we are pulling together to protect what matters most. We have everything it takes to meet the moment: the resources the world needs, the talented, hardworking people to power progress, and the opportunity to lead.

This is BC’s time to shine.

Diana Gibson is BC’s minister of jobs, economic development and innovation (JEDI) and the MLA for Oak Bay-Gordon Head.