Inaugural BC Tech Summit bringing the biggest names in local tech to Vancouver

Dec 20 2017, 3:32 am

The BC Tech Summit, an initiative of the BC Government and the BC Innovation Council, will be presenting some of the biggest and boldest ideas in technological innovation to a Vancouver audience this month.

With big-name speakers like Premier Christy Clark, the CEO of Electronic Arts Andrew Wilson, President of GE Canada Elyse Allan, and the Honourable Amrik Virk, the B.C. Minister of Technology, the Tech Summit is the industry leading conference on the province’s vibrant technology sector, happening this year from January 18 to 19.

It’s the first time an event like this has happened in Vancouver, and with a prestigious and extensive roster of speakers and a sold-out audience, more than 2,000 people will hear both inspirational and informative insights into the tech economy – including specific topics like fintech (financial technology), cleantech, big data, and cyber security.

The event will also feature a highly anticipated showcase featuring the latest B.C.-developed technology like electric cars, robots, and 3D printing.

Technology as a career pays about 60% more than the B.C. average

Hundreds of students from B.C. high schools and universities will also get the chance to learn about the benefits of pursuing a career in the technology sector, with a career showcase featuring speakers and exhibitors on the industry’s various job opportunities.

Many of the young students will take part in a coding bootcamp, but not just those at the summit will have the opportunity; high schools across the province are able to stream the camp live and participate remotely.

BC Tech Strategy

Announced just this past December, the BC Tech Fund is a $100 million venture-capital fund aimed at strengthening the province’s tech sector. The comprehensive BC Tech Strategy will be announced during the summit.

“Strengthening our technology sector is part of our commitment to support our diverse economy. The summit provides an unprecedented opportunity for like-minded individuals to get together and discuss ways of growing this sector and capitalizing from that growth,” said B.C.’s Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services, Amrik Virk.

There are currently more than 9,000 tech companies operating in B.C. and combined, they generate a 2013 revenue of $23.3 billion. More than 86,000 people in the province are employed in the field.

Vancity Buzz is a proud media partner of BC Tech Summit

DH Vancouver StaffDH Vancouver Staff

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