The tech sector in British Columbia (B.C.) has grown significantly over the years. In 2022, the sector contributed $16 billion to B.C.’s GDP, while Vancouver led the tech talent growth rate with 69% among major North American cities between 2017 and 2022.
Supporting the innovation that leads B.C. technology to the global stage, the BC Tech Association hosts Technology Impact Awards (TIA) annually, to recognize exceptional B.C. tech companies and individuals who have made notable contributions to the industry.
BC Tech Association (BC Tech), founded in 1993, is the largest non-profit member funded sector association representing technology companies in B.C. The association provides a range of services, including setting up networking opportunities and offering programs to assist startups in scaling up, to attract and develop the tech talent pool and to increase technology adoption.
Over the past 30 years, BC Tech has actively supported the growth of B.C. tech companies. The results are evident – companies have evolved from startups to multinationals, from small offices to major firms with global affiliations, and from scaleups into anchors.
In June 2024, BC Tech Technology Impact Awards announced 38 exceptional finalists across nine categories
Investing in the future of talent, BC Tech established an industry-funded scholarship program. Grants are presented to students who show a strong interest in technology, aim to make an impact in the sector and are enrolled in post-secondary programs related to technology. The scholarship does not only provide financial assistance to recipients but can help students gain recognition within the tech community.
Today, almost 100 students have been awarded scholarships from BC Tech, and there will be six more recipients for this upcoming year.
The winner of each category will be announced at the 2024 Technology Impact Awards gala on October 23. Stay tuned for more highlights about TIA winners later this year.
With the support from partners in B.C.’s tech ecosystem, such as BC Tech Association and Innovate BC, the province is dynamic and full of opportunities. Major global companies and start-ups are drawn to technology clusters in Vancouver, Victoria and Kelowna. Vancouver’s tech startup ecosystem was ranked the second best in Canada and the first for high-tech job growth in North America.
B.C.’s vibrant technology organizations are shaping future developments through collaboration, innovation and growth. B.C.’s technology strengths span various sectors including artificial intelligence, AR/VR/MR, blockchain, cleantech, cloud/software as a service, digital health, digital media, fintech, gaming, healthtech, lifesciences, quantum, security, smart cities, software and emerging tech. The advanced research infrastructure and a supportive government provide an ideal environment for successful investment, partnerships and growth.
For regular updates on B.C. tech news, follow Trade and Invest BC on LinkedIn and X. Connect with Trade and Invest BC to learn more about how we can help serve your investment, business expansion and trade needs.
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