B.C. Fuels Innovation at Hannover Messe 2025

The largest number of British Columbia (B.C.) companies and universities ever participated in Hannover Messe, the world’s largest trade show for industrial and energy technologies, held in Germany March 31 – April 4, 2025. With Canada as this year’s host partner country, B.C. had a strong presence, highlighting trade and investment opportunities while positioning the province as a leader in clean technology and innovation.

British Columbia’s Innovative Technology

Hannover Messe 2025’s theme of “Industrial Transformation” attracted approximately 5,000 exhibiting companies from the mechanical engineering, electrical and digital technology, and energy sectors. By promoting B.C. businesses on a global stage, the province continues to expand trade and investment opportunities on a global stage.

This year’s delegation included 22 B.C. companies and universities, showcasing expertise in clean tech, artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing. Of these, seven hydrogen companies showcased B.C.’s leadership in clean energy solutions. B.C. is home to the largest hydrogen and fuel cell technology sector in Canada, with 51% of the country’s companies located in the province.

Other B.C.-based cutting-edge technology was on display, including standout exhibits like Sanctuary’s upper-body humanoid robot, Stella the Robot Dog from Ahead.IO Labs and Aequilibrium’s virtual reality (VR) experience at the B.C. Pavilion. Stella the Robot Dog was a crowd favourite with her robotic soccer ball demonstration, highlighting Vancouver, B.C. as a host city for FIFA World Cup 26™ Vancouver. The VR experience featured tourism highlights from across the province, B.C.’s flora and fauna, and a soccer goalie challenge where participants could compete against each other.

Representatives from the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University and the British Columbia Institute of Technology showcased B.C.’s leadership in research, innovation and technology.

Deputy Minister Fazil Mihlar of the B.C. Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation participated in the B.C. panel on energy transition, highlighting investment potential in sustainable energy and critical minerals. The province is focused on attracting and supporting investors and businesses that can contribute to B.C.’s clean and inclusive economic growth.

Trade and Invest BC supported the success of B.C.’s delegation by providing in-market advice, event coordination and introductions to key industry contacts such as government agencies, industry associations and private companies to strengthen trade relationships and attract global investment.

Fueling Trade Diversification within Europe

In today’s global environment, trade diversification is more important than ever before. B.C.’s Trade Diversification Strategy is designed to help businesses expand into new markets, strengthen existing trade partnerships and attract investment. B.C. and Germany share strong economic ties, as Germany is Canada’s largest EU trading partner.

Beyond Hannover Messe, Trade and Invest BC helps B.C. businesses grow by matching buyers and sellers in local and foreign markets, and by providing entry assistance in international markets. Our experienced and educated team of trade and investment professionals have access to a global network of representatives in China, Japan, Korea, South East Asia, Taiwan, India, Europe, Mexico and the United States.

Find out more about our global network or how we connect B.C. companies with international opportunities on LinkedIn and X.