Innovation Ecosystem
British Columbia (B.C.) is a dynamic innovation hub within Canada, driven by a thriving technology sector, a strong commitment to clean technologies, world-class research institutions and strategic government support.
A Robust Technology Ecosystem
B.C. is home to more than 12,000 technology companies employing more than 180,000 highly skilled workers. Vancouver has the fastest-growing life sciences sector in Canada and the world’s second-largest virtual and augmented reality cluster. This success is fuelled by a highly educated workforce, globally recognized colleges and universities and a collaborative innovation culture supported by over 80 incubators, accelerators and mentorship programs.
Innovation Across Industries
Innovation in B.C. spans sectors. Companies are decarbonizing energy (Ekona Power), advancing sustainable manufacturing (Plascon Plastics Corporation), and applying AI to agriculture (4AG Robotics) and automation (Novarc Technologies). Global players like STEMCELL Technologies fuel breakthroughs in life sciences, while startups pioneer digital health (MindfulGarden Digital Health). Transportation innovators are advancing greener travel solutions (KF Aerospace and Hallor Group) and shipyards (3GA Marine).
Strategic Government Support
B.C.’s innovation economy is backed by strong public investment. Innovate BC funds pilots, mentorship and hiring grants, while PacifiCan invests in scaling tech and supporting regional growth, and together, they accelerate tech adoption through the Integrated Marketplace. The InBC Investment Fund deploys $500M to support high-growth firms and research infrastructure is strengthened through the BC Knowledge Development Fund (BCKDF).
The Future of Innovation in B.C.
B.C. is emerging as a leader in AI and digital transformation, investing in technologies that improve efficiency across industries while modernizing public services to improve efficiency and accountability. The Province is also advancing intellectual property strategies to retain homegrown innovation and scale globally. Programs like the B.C. Workplace Innovation Fund supports innovative training and employment solutions.
Innovation & Emerging Sectors in BC
B.C. is rich with opportunities to buy, invest in, or expand operations within emerging and government-supported industries:
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