Woodrise 2025: B.C.’s Mass Timber Global Impact

Summary:

How is British Columbia shaping the future of sustainable building through mass timber innovation? Woodrise 2025 in Vancouver highlighted British Columbia’s leadership in mass timber construction and innovation.

• Vancouver hosted 1,100 participants from 33 countries at Woodrise 2025, focused on timber construction.
• British Columbia holds 12.7% of North America’s mass timber market share and can produce 15% of supply.
• As part of the Mass Timber Demonstration Program the Government of B.C. is providing $2 million to support design, permitting, research and construction activities that showcase new or emerging mass timber technologies.

In late September 2025, Vancouver, British Columbia (B.C.) hosted Woodrise, a four-day international congress focused on mid- and high-rise timber construction and sustainable wood building practices. This was the first time the event was held in Vancouver, and it attracted over 1,100 participants from 33 countries.

B.C. Expands Leadership in Mass Timber Manufacturing

Vancouver is recognized for its concentration of globally respected firms. In addition to exporting goods, the city’s professional services are in high demand around the world. British Columbia holds 12.7 percent of the North American market share in mass timber manufacturing and 29.2 percent of the Pacific Northwest’s share. The province has the capacity to produce 15 percent of the continent’s mass timber, supported by its skilled workforce, advanced infrastructure and over 130 architectural firms, 40 engineering firms and 115 builders.

The trade show was a major highlight of the event. It remained active throughout the day, offering participants opportunities to connect and network. British Columbia hosted a booth that was a joint initiative by the Ministry of Jobs and Economic Growth’s Office of Mass Timber Implementation Office (now called Construction Innovation), the Industrial Lands Branch and the First Nations Forestry Council. There was also a session focused on British Columbia’s design history that drew strong attendance, demonstrating international interest in the region’s architectural contributions.

British Columbia’s Government Support for Sustainable Wood Construction

During the welcome reception on September 22, Minister Kahlon outlined the government’s efforts to grow the industry. He highlighted the BCIT Mass Timber Training Hub, which was launched in 2023 with a $3.3 million investment over three years. The hub now offers four training programs and has enrolled over 800 students. Minister Kahlon also emphasized the importance of the Mass Timber Demonstration Program, which provides real-world experience for designers, builders and other stakeholders. The program aims to expand the use of mass timber, reduce construction barriers and reinforce British Columbia’s position as a leader in timber technologies and services. It currently supports 20 demonstration buildings and eight research projects.

At the same reception, Minister Kahlon announced the addition of four new projects to the Mass Timber Demonstration Program.  These projects are part of the province’s broader Mass Timber Action Plan. The government is providing $2 million to support design, permitting, research and construction activities that showcase new or emerging mass timber technologies. Each project will generate case studies and technical insights that help reduce barriers for future developments and demonstrate feasibility in both cost and construction.

Connect with B.C.’s Mass Timber Leaders at the Next Woodrise Conference

Feedback from participants confirmed the event’s success and highlighted the importance of international collaboration in advancing sustainable timber construction. Previous Woodrise congresses were held in Bordeaux, Quebec City and Kyoto. The next edition will take place in fall 2027 in Nara, Japan, a country that represents British Columbia’s third-largest export market and a partner in a timber trade relationship that has lasted more than a century.

To learn more about the natural strength of B.C.’s mass timber sector, follow Trade and Invest BC on LinkedIn and X, or contact our trade and investment experts.