The BetaKit Guide
Web Summit
Vancouver 2025
Presented by
Video courtesy of Everett Bumstead
Web Summit is touching down on Canada’s best coast for the very first time.
The global tech conference replaces Collision as North America’s flagship tech conference. Over 15,000 people are expected to show up, including founders, VCs, policymakers, and even a few celebrities.
For British Columbia’s growing tech scene, it’s a moment. More than 300 companies from BC’s thriving tech ecosystem will showcase their products and services at the event. The timing feels right, but four days of panels, parties, and side quests can be a lot.
The BetaKit Guide: Web Summit Vancouver features picks and perspectives from our readers: who to see, where to go, what to skip, and how to navigate the week without missing out (or burning out).
01 /
The big picture
Audience insights
Most anticipated speaker
Jay Graber
CEO of BlueSky
More than half of BetaKit’s readers named Graber, whose Mandarin name, Lantian, translates to Blue Sky, as the Web Summit speaker they’re most excited to see.
Audience insights
What should BC tech be known for?
“CleanTech & Life Sciences”
“Best implementors. Hustle.”
“Stealth scaling.”
“Excellent tech talent ecosystem and maturing VC landscape”
“I’m thrilled that Web Summit is coming to Vancouver and bringing the global tech community to our city. One of the most iconic things about Vancouver is how seamlessly nature and city life come together. You can live, work, and play in a world-class downtown area, just minutes from waterfront views, local art, and amazing food. I always encourage visitors to check out Granville Island. It’s just across False Creek and offers a uniquely Vancouver experience, with public markets, artisan studios and unbeatable views of the city.”
Ken Sim
Mayor of Vancouver
02 /
The events
Get on the bus
Innovation & Investment Insider Tours
Monday, May 26 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Kick off the week with a guided tour of one of Vancouver’s fastest-growing sectors and visit companies including PH7 Technologies, Hydron Energy, Arca Climate, AbCellera, Kardium and Gandeeva Therapeutics. The Innovation & Investment Insider Tours hosted by Invest Vancouver and a range of local partners will feature a “Bites and Backers” lunch and bus tours focused on cleantech, life sciences, and creative tech industries.
On the conference floor
B.C. Pavilion
The largest exhibit zone at Web Summit Vancouver, the B.C. Pavilion will spotlight the province’s tech ecosystem with keynotes, panels, a pitch competition, industry announcements, and B2B meetings. It will also feature more than 70 local startups across life sciences, deep tech, and digital media.
Delegations
Key officials, investors, and tech leaders from the Ukraine, Italy, the Netherlands and more than a dozen countries will attend Web Summit Vancouver. The City of Toronto is leading a 120-startup-strong delegation, while the City of Montréal and Québec Tech are sending more than 30 Québec startups.
Climate Innovation Zone
A 600 square-foot showcase of Canada’s top cleantech talent. Running May 28 to 30 in partnership with NorthX Climate Tech, Foresight Canada, Innovation UBC, Alacrity Canada, and Clean Resource Innovation Network, with sessions on electrification and wildfire tech, plus pitches from women in climate.
The side events
Vancouver Demo Day + Web Summit Social
Tuesday, May 27 | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Hosted by TechTO, Panache Ventures, and N49P, Demo Day features Canadian tech companies recognized for strong growth, smart solutions, or early traction, as selected by leading VCs and the local startup community.
Vancity Innovation House
Wednesday, May 28 | 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Presented by Frontier Collective in the heart of Vancouver’s iconic Gastown neighbourhood, offering a full day of panels, fireside chats, and interactive activations showcasing climate tech, AI, FinTech, robotics, life sciences, and more.
Vancouver AI Meet Up
Wednesday, May 28 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Vancouver AI is throwing a gathering for the curious, the creative, and the computationally inclined: researchers, artists, founders, and anyone building or questioning AI. This is where BC’s AI brain trust meets to mix and mingle.
Brought to you by BetaKit
BetaKit will be at Web Summit Vancouver, co-hosting events focused on candid insights and IRL storytelling.
Web Summit After Hours: Scaling Realities
Tuesday, May 27 | 4:30 PM –7:00 PM
Join Float and BetaKit for a candid, closed-door conversation with a select group of finance executives, VCs, and scale-up leaders on what growth really looks like in 2025. Expect war stories, candid insights, and tough talk about today’s fundraising landscape, the future of AI-driven operating models, and strategic scaling in a market that’s no longer booming. Seats are limited.
Web Summit Story Night: Inflection Points
Thursday, May 29 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Co-hosted with The Cansbridge Fellowship and supported by La base entrepreneuriale and McCarthy Tétrault, this storytelling event will feature six leaders including Jack Newton from Clio and Ivan Zhang from Cohere sharing five-minute stories about inflection points in their lives, companies and careers.
👍 Recommendation
How to connect with a VC at the event
“Always best to try to set up meetings beforehand than trying to do it spontaneously at the event – warm intros are best but a thoughtful cold email can go a long way!”
Boris Wertz, Founder and General Partner
Version One Ventures
🔥 Hot tip
What’s one location attendees should check out while in Vancouver?
“Timbertrain coffee, Revolver, and Nemesis are the killer coffee places only blocks away, all have amazing meeting spaces. Go to all of them. Also walking downtown is the fastest, Van is made for walking.”
Joshua Nilson, Lead
Maskwa Games and Ambassador, Web Summit Vancouver
02 /
The Fun Stuff
It’s not all business. The majority of BetaKit readers said they’re most interested in attending side parties at Web Summit Vancouver.
The Afterparty List
Drawing inspiration from Michael Liu’s 2024 Collision Afterparty List, Vancouver Tech Journal’s Nicole Hsueh is actively compiling a list of side conferences, networking events, panels, and of course, parties happening around Web Summit Vancouver. Check out more events on VTJ’s Web Summit Vancouver Master Afterparty List.
Private parties
Here are a few exclusive events taking place around Web Summit Vancouver.
Goodlawyer Yacht Party
Wednesday, May 28 | 5:30PM – 10:00 PM
Goodlawyer’s invite-only yacht parties have become a coveted invite at big Canadian tech events, and will launch from Vancouver with a lucky group of lawyers, leaders, and founders.
Code, Compliance & Cocktails
Wednesday, May 28 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Scrut Automation and Forward Security are hosting an evening of relaxed conversation and music exclusively for SaaS founders and C-suites.
Summit After Dark
Thursday, May 29 | 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Internet Masterminds and Netsmartz are hosting a high-impact private party for Vancouver’s tech founders at the Vesper Lounge, featuring live music and a chance to connect with Web Summit speakers and VIP guests.
The local hangouts
Some lower key events for those who want to Web Summit and chill.
BeeerRitual
Monday, May 26 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Bring your drink of choice and join a crew of thoughtful, interesting people for an unofficial Web Summit kickoff. Come for the connections, stay for the conversations.
Founders Matchawalk
Tuesday, May 27 | 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Start your day with a coffee and a waterfront walk hosted by Web Summit Vancouver co-host Casey Lau and special guests.
Young Founders Run & Coffee
Wednesday, May 28 | 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM
In partnership with Osler, RBC, and Adidas, League of Innovators is hosting a free-to-join community five-kilometre run on Vancouver’s seawall and coffee hangout for young founders.
Wake Up Morning Coffee Meet
Wednesday, May 28 | 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Kick off Day 2 with coffee and conversation alongside founders, investors, and startup supporters. Hosted by Invoke, Shred Capital, Easly, Segev LLP, and Davidson & Co.
Startup Social 10KM Run
Thursday, May 29 | 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Join Niki Kearl of Open Waters Solar and Artemis Canada’s Carly Livingstone for a casual 10-kilometre run around Stanley Park on day three of Web Summit Vancouver.
Tacos and Margs Happy Hour @ Web Summit
Thursday, May 29 | 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Invoke, Shred Capital, Easly, Segev LLP, and Davidson & Co. are hosting a taco and margarita happy hour just five minutes from the Vancouver Convention Centre at one of the city’s go-to taco spots.
03 /
The speakers
Stay up to date on the complete speaker lineup and schedule on Web Summit Vancouver’s website.
The headliners
Jay Graber
Bluesky
WIRED’s Katie Drummond will chat with Jay Graber, CEO of the Jack Dorsey-founded company reimagining social media through open, decentralized networks. Graber built the social events platform Happening and contributed to the privacy-focused cryptocurrency Zcash, before bringing her mix of technical depth and civic vision to the X challenger.
Dr. Cornel West
Harvard University
One of the world’s most preeminent public intellectuals, Dr. Cornel West is professor of the practice of public philosophy at Harvard University, and holds the title of professor emeritus at Princeton. Dr. West will be delivering a session to Web Summit Vancouver attendees examining how we can “recode” our approach to truth and dialogue in digital spaces and society.
The investors
Michael Yang
OMERS Ventures
The Senior Managing Partner of OMERS Ventures will unpack how VCs are adapting to a changing financial landscape.
Jack Selby
Thiel Capital
The Managing Director of Peter Thiel’s family office will talk about the pressure on traditional venture models as IPOs slow to a trickle.
Edith Yeung
Race Capital
Yeung will dive into how VCs are embracing AI and what it means for raising capital in a transformed ecosystem.
Sven Strohband
Khosla Ventures
The Managing Director at Khosla Ventures will discuss prioritizing the sustainable development of AI.
Celebrity Speaker
Metta World Peace
The famous former hooper has partnered with former Boost Mobile CEO Stephen Stokols to launch a $100-million USD venture fund targeting sports tech, digital media platforms and health and wellness innovation. He will join fellow NBA stars JaVale McGee and Baron Davis to discuss how they’re building ventures off the court and across music, media, tech, private equity, and more.
Hometown Heroes
Jack Newton
Clio
The CEO and Founder of Vancouver legaltech scale-up Clio, which raised a record-breaking funding round last year, will deliver a keynote speech at Web Summit Vancouver
Irina Novoselsky
Hootsuite
Novoselsky will talk about how social media is evolving from a megaphone to a growth engine.
Tanis Jorge
The Cofounder’s Hub
Jorge will explore the hard-earned lessons and pivotal moments that shaped her path to success as an entrepreneur.
Andrew McLeod
Certn
The co-founder and CEO of Certn will talk about the future of hiring.
👍 Recommendation
Frontline insights
“While we pursue positive momentum, celebrate innovation and the who’s who in tech, the meaningful insights of warzone correspondent Muhammad Lila are something I look forward to—an uncomfortable insight I’d like to make space for living in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.”
Felix Böck, Founder and CEO
ChopValue
🔥 Hot tip
How can attendees capture value from the event?
“Go in with a topic you’re deeply curious about, and chase every session, speaker, and connection tied to it. Depth > breadth in a conference this size.”
Jack Newton, Founder and CEO
Clio
Audience insights
Who else would you love to see on stage?
Mark Carney
Prime Minister of Canada
Katherine Homuth
Oomira
Jim Balsillie
Canadian Council of Innovators
Elissa Strome
CIFAR
Mike Greenley
MDA Space
05 /
The city
Neighbourhood spotlight
Mount Pleasant is Vancouver’s creative engine. Anchored by Main Street, it’s a walkable, mural-covered neighbourhood packed with shops, craft breweries, and some of the city’s most buzzed-about restaurants.
One BetaKit reader described the area as Vancouver’s unofficial “innovation district” in our survey. Tech companies like Hootsuite and AbCellera have planted roots here, while the Main Alley campus has become a hub for the local tech sector.
Whether you’re sipping a cortado at Matchstick or grabbing a pint at Brassneck Brewery, Mount Pleasant offers a slice of Vancouver that’s equal parts laid-back and forward-thinking.
Spending power
Destination Vancouver projects Web Summit Vancouver will generate $57 million in direct tourism spending in Vancouver and $93 million in total impact this year alone. Over three years, the conference is expected to bring in $172 million in direct spending and $279 million in overall economic activity across BC.
“In today’s fast-changing economic landscape, the need for Canadians to rely on trusted, homegrown brands has never been more critical. Interac is proudly made in Canada for Canadians, and we’re committed to supporting events like Web Summit Vancouver that celebrate and elevate Canadian innovation. This year’s Summit is a key moment for Vancouver’s tech community to highlight its leadership and creativity – and for us to help that innovation thrive at home and on the global stage.”
Debbie Gamble, Group Head and Chief Marketing Officer
Interac Corp.
👍 Recommendation
Buy Canadian
The desire to support Canadian businesses has surged following US tariffs, with 79 percent of Canadians feeling it’s now more important to shop local. With 1.3 million small businesses in Canada, your spending directly impacts your community and powers our economy.
Tap to pay with Interac Debit during Web Summit, and support Canadian innovation right here in Vancouver.
🔥 Hot tip
Fraud-proof your Summit experience
Here are Interac’s top tips to help avoid fraud during business travel:
- Only scan QR codes from trusted sources. If you see a QR code in a public place, don’t scan it unless it’s clearly part of a business’s official signage or service.
- Never help someone pay for an Uber. If a stranger asks for help with a ride payment, it’s likely a scam. And whenever you’re handing over a payment card, make sure it’s your own card being used.
- Protect your payment cards and phone in crowded areas. Use a radio-frequency identification (RFID)-blocking wallet to shield your cards, and turn off mobile payment features on your phone when you’re in busy public spaces.
Trail intermission
Vancouver’s a green city, and its parks and trails could fill a guide of their own. But Stanley Park, Canada’s largest urban park, was the clear favourite among BetaKit readers. It’s walkable from the Vancouver Convention Centre, packed with stunning sea-level views, and home to the country’s biggest aquarium. Rent a bike on Denman Street or get your 10,000 steps in on the park’s seawall.
Escape to the mountains
A quick trip over the Lion’s Gate Bridge takes you to one of the city’s literal and figurative top attractions: Grouse Mountain. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can skip the gondola and attempt the Grouse Grind, also known as “nature’s stairmaster.” At the top you’ll find unforgettable views of Vancouver, and great dining opportunities to choose from.
Where to stay
Flying in for Web Summit? Vancouver’s got you covered with plenty of hotels just steps from the conference floor.
Rosewood Hotel Georgia
An elegant downtown retreat, just a short walk from the Vancouver Convention Centre.
Van-Chew-Ver
BetaKit readers served up their top picks for food in Vancouver.
Rain City Libations
BetaKit readers pointed to their favourite watering holes in and around the downtown core.
The Keefer Bar
Chinatown bar with apothecary vibes and inventive drinks.
👍 Recommendation
The local favourite
“Hidden secret and newcomer Saunter has some of the best croissants in the city and a quiet oasis tucked in the back.”
Boris Mann, Director
Z-Space
🔥 Hot tip
What’s one location attendees from outside the city should check out while in Vancouver?
“Start or end your day walking the beaches from Spanish Banks to Kits Beach —Vancouver at its best. Bring coffee, leave shoes. Or try a scenic seaplane tour of Vancouver’s coastline.”
Maria Pacella, Managing Partner
Pender Ventures
Audience insights
What’s the best way to get around Vancouver?
60%
said walking
20%
said SkyTrain
10%
said TransLink or SeaBus
Interac Corp. proudly returns as an event partner at Web Summit Vancouver. As one of Canada’s leading and most trusted financial brands, Interac empowers Canadians to transact digitally with confidence by providing payment and value exchange services.
Made in Canada for Canadians, Interac helps Canadians stay in charge of their money and offers low-fee payment solutions that enable businesses accepting Interac e-Transfer and Interac Debit to keep more of what they earn. With nearly 300 financial institutions in our network, Canadians rely on Interac products over 20 million times daily.