The Natural Advantages of British Columbia’s Tech Sectors

Spanning from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean, British Columbia (B.C.) is a natural fit for innovators and change-makers. Home to one of North America’s fastest-growing tech ecosystems, B.C. hosts thousands of tech companies, including global brands.

As Canada’s westernmost province, British Columbia simplifies international business. The province’s time zone aligns with California, Oregon and Washington State, and its business hours overlap with New York, London and Hong Kong. This strategic time zone advantage supports same-day global operations and communications.

B.C.’s top universities and technical institutions train the next generation of high-quality talent. With 25 post-secondary institutions, including the highly ranked University of British Columbia , Simon Fraser University and British Columbia Institute of Technology, the province offers a range of highly sought-after credentials for the next generation of top talent.

B.C. offers opportunities across many technology sectors, including:

• Agri-tech
• Artificial Intelligence
• Clean tech
• Digital Media and Entertainment
• Hydrogen
• Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
• Life Sciences
• Virtual Reality / Augmented Reality

Watch the video and keep reading below to discover why B.C. is a flourishing technology ecosystem, naturally.

A West Coast Technology Hub

British Columbia brings ideas and opportunities to life with a strong focus on technology and innovation, creating a natural environment for forward-thinking vision.

B.C.’s dynamic ecosystem attracts and supports startups and established companies. It has strengths in following technology sectors, making it the west coast capital of opportunity in Canada.

Where Agriculture and Innovation Meet

B.C. companies are pioneering technology in the agri-tech sector to tackle global challenges in food safety, production and sustainability. With Canada’s most diverse agriculture, seafood and food processing industry, British Columbia is at the forefront of driving technological advancements in food supply chains.

At the Forefront of Artificial Intelligence

B.C. is a leader in applied and commercialized artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, home to Canada’s Digital Technology Supercluster and the Quantum Algorithms Institute. The province attracts major global tech players who are leveraging AI to revolutionize industries such as natural resources and healthcare.
 

Trailblazers in Clean Tech

British Columbia’s clean tech sector ranks among the top 10 globally. Committed to clean growth and a net-zero future, the province generates 98% of its electricity from clean or renewable resources, making it the cleanest jurisdiction in western North America. This dedication to sustainability is driving advancements and attracting investment in the clean tech sector.

Canada’s Creative Coast

B.C. is Canada’s creative powerhouse and a key player in the global creative economy. The thriving digital media and entertainment sector includes a vibrant mix of digital media, film, television, visual effects, gaming, animation and post-production companies. With an attractive mix of artistic and technical talent, B.C. creators produce award-winning content enjoyed by global audiences.

Leading the World in Hydrogen Technologies

B.C. is a global leader in hydrogen and fuel cell technology, with over half of Canada’s hydrogen companies located here in British Columbia. The sector is set for growth, with an ambitious goal to become a world-leading hydrogen economy by 2050 by incentivizing the production of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen.

Dynamic ICT Industry

B.C. is home to a progressive ICT industry that is making significant strides in software development, cloud computing, information technology, telecommunications and electronics manufacturing. The province is home to global companies such as Microsoft, Intel, Samsung and Salesforce. Recently, more unicorn companies (with valuations over $1 billion) have come out of B.C. than anywhere else in Canada. This dynamic sector is a cornerstone of B.C.’s technological advancement.

Leading the Life Sciences Sector

British Columbia boasts the fastest-growing life sciences sector in Canada. The province is renowned for its groundbreaking work in areas such as HIV-AIDS, oncology, genomics and COVID-19 vaccines. With the development of new lab spaces and the expansion of clinical trial and research capacity, BC is solidifying its position as a global life sciences hub.

A Top Global Player in Virtual and Augmented Reality (AR/VR)

Vancouver, B.C., has the world’s second-largest virtual and augmented reality sector, training only the Bay Area and Silicon Valley. Home to Electronic Arts’ Canadian headquarters, B.C. is also Canada’s second-largest video game production hub. Companies benefit from B.C.’s entrepreneurial support and opportunities in life sciences, digital media and entertainment, aerospace, natural resources and more.

A flourishing Innovation Ecosystem

British Columbia fosters a creative tech culture that attracts both startups and established companies. With strong research infrastructure, competitive business costs, government support and global connections, B.C. is a prime location for tech investment and growth. The province’s dynamic ecosystem makes it Canada’s west coast capital of opportunity and natural fit for companies aiming to grow their business.

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