Here are 8 best tech networking events in Vancouver

Vancouver’s tech scene is one exciting place to be. Spanning across different industries and disciplines, there are so many opportunities — and jobs — available. Even better, networking in the tech industry is relaxed and welcoming, so grab a beer and get started.

Whether you’re looking for a job or keeping up with the latest trends, here are eight of the best tech events in Vancouver, to get you started.

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Startup Drinks Vancouver

Startup Drinks is an end-of-the-month casual event, over drinks (duh). It’s hosted by the Vancouver chapter of Startup Canada. Plus, there are also other options if you’re not into after hours, including a monthly #VanStartupStories panel celebrating new entrepreneurs.

When: Monthly
Where: D/6 Bar and Lounge at Parq Vancouver
Style: Large group, informal networking, bar setting

Tech Ladies Vancouver

This local chapter of the Tech Ladies focuses on bringing more women into tech and startups. A free-for-all job board is prominent at all events, allowing recruiters to make connections through word of mouth and referrals. Always oversubscribed and hosted at a new space every time (Clio and Red Academy were recent hosts), Tech Ladies is an inclusive event in the space.

When: Monthly
Where: Across Vancouver (various venues)
Style: Large group, informal networking

TechVancouver

TechVancouver is a monthly series featuring quick presentations with local tech leaders and innovators. Each event sees a different theme, from unicorn growth strategies to exit success stories. Networking is casual and friendly, with beer and pizza included in your ticket.

When: Monthly
Where: Downtown (various venues)
Style: Large group, informal networking, fireside chat presentations

Full Indie

The largest generalist meetup for individuals who make games and/or play them. Accessible regardless of your level cap, Full Indie’s popular monthly events show the force that video games have become in Vancouver.

When: Monthly
Where: Downtown (various venues)
Style: Large group, informal networking, bar setting

HackerNestVan

With a disclaimer of “unpretentious, agenda-free (no sales pitch)” events, HackNestVan is chill and unstructured. Featuring different spaces and offices, this is a no-pressure way of networking and making new friends.

When: Monthly
Where: Downtown (various venues)
Style: Large group, informal networking

VanVR

Virtual reality and augmented reality are hot topics everywhere these days, so hop on the bandwagon and learn more about this fascinating aspect of tech. From technical sessions to casual socials, VanVR is a good way to dip your toes into the pixelated waters of the future.

When: Monthly
Where: Downtown (various venues)
Style: Small group, informal networking, technical sessions

Vancouver Enterprise Forum (VEF)

The Vancouver Enterprise Forum is one of the oldest tech-industry groups in the city. A bit more serious in tone than some of the others on this list, the events usually feature a presentation with networking before and after.

When: Monthly
Where: Downtown (various, often Spaces Gastown)
Style: Large group, networking, professional

BC Tech Hub Events

The industry’s association (BC Tech) puts on some great sessions with relevant and topical presentations. Unfortunately, they can be a bit hard to find on the website. Look for the listings with “@ BC Tech Hub” in the headline, and you should uncover some interesting topics coming up.

The entire events calendar is also worth a look, as they aggregate upcoming events from across the industry.

When: Monthly
Where: Mount Pleasant (BC Tech Hub)
Style: Presentation-style, professional