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Web Summit

Lite-1 Wins Inaugural PITCH at Web Summit

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Vancouver startup Lite-1 has won Web Summit Vancouver’s first-ever PITCH competition, topping hundreds of global entrants. Co-founded by Roya Aghighi, Lite-1 develops bio-based pigments using microorganisms to replace toxic synthetic dyes. The clean-tech innovation offers a scalable, sustainable alternative to chemical-intensive processes.

The final round, judged by investors from FPV Ventures, Race Capital, and The Co-Founders Hub, featured three women-led startups: Lite-1, GlüxKind, and VodaSafe. Aghighi called the win “incredible,” noting investor interest and momentum. The PITCH victory positions Lite-1 for global scale and attention in sustainable manufacturing.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

Neil Patel Urges Marketers to Trust Data

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Marketing expert Neil Patel delivered a compelling presentation at Web Summit Vancouver titled 20 Charts in 20 Minutes That Will Transform Your Marketing. Backed by data from 150,000 blog posts and 3 million social updates, Patel urged marketers to prioritize data over instinct.

He highlighted shifting search behavior—platforms like TikTok now rival Google—and warned that buyers need 11+ touchpoints before purchase. Patel emphasized the enduring value of SEO, email, and paid ads, and encouraged companies to build free tools as lead magnets. AI helps, he noted, but human content still performs best.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

Women-Led BC Startups Shine at Web Summit

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At Web Summit Vancouver’s inaugural PITCH competition, three British Columbia-based startups led by women advanced to the final round. GlüxKind, Lite-1, and VodaSafe emerged from a field of global early-stage companies after two rounds of rigorous judging.

GlüxKind’s Ella stroller leverages AI for safer parenting. Lite-1, co-founded by Sarah Graham and Roya Aghighi, offers sustainable microbial dyes. VodaSafe’s AquaEye, created by Carlyn Loncaric, accelerates water rescues using handheld sonar. All three are BC Tech Association members, a key player in growing B.C.’s tech sector. The final takes place today as Web Summit concludes.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

Spexi Elevates Canada’s Aerial Imaging Game

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Faced with aging infrastructure and climate risk, Canada’s demand for fast, accurate geospatial data is growing. Vancouver-based Spexi, led by imaging veteran Bill Lakeland, is meeting the challenge. The firm operates the world’s largest drone imaging network, capturing real-time aerial data for emergency planning, AI, and smart cities.

With a decentralized pilot network and a platform built for speed, Spexi outpaces satellites and aircraft in delivering timely insights. Municipalities, insurers, and researchers increasingly rely on its data to mitigate risks. Lakeland believes Canada’s regulatory edge and AI expertise position it to lead globally.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

Bell Unveils Canada’s Largest AI Compute Project

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At Web Summit Vancouver, Bell Canada unveiled its most ambitious tech initiative yet: Bell AI Fabric, a national AI computing network powered by 500 MW of hydroelectric energy. The project begins with a Kamloops-based data centre coming online this June, developed in partnership with AI firm Groq.

By 2027, six AI facilities—including one at Thompson Rivers University—will offer sovereign, eco-conscious AI compute. CEO Mirko Bibic called it “transformational” for Canada’s AI future. Bell’s move arrives amid growing AI infrastructure competition, notably following TELUS’s recent $70 billion announcement.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

Web Summit Debuts in Vancouver with Global Crowd

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Web Summit’s debut in Vancouver drew a global crowd of 15,727 from 117 nations, marking a record-setting launch. Over 1,100 startups from 64 countries are exhibiting, with 44% women-founded—a strong signal of inclusive entrepreneurship. Major partners like Microsoft, Mastercard, and IBM joined 681 investors from Thiel Capital and 500 Global.

Fifty trade delegations, including South Korea and Nigeria, arrived to network and explore investment. The event features 345 speakers and 88 curated meetups tailored through Summit Engine software. With 550 journalists from outlets including The Guardian and CTV reporting on-site, Vancouver took centre stage on tech’s global circuit.

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Vancouver’s Tech Sector Gears Up for Web Summit

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Vancouver will soon host Web Summit, one of the world’s premier technology conferences, offering BC’s tech sector a rare global spotlight. Local firms view it as a pivotal opportunity: 44% aim to drive sales or partnerships, 25% seek insights, and others target funding, exposure, or talent. For investors, strong sector alignment and product-market fit matter more than ever.

Web Summit signals BC’s global ambition and opens doors to capital and collaboration. More than a tradeshow, it’s a catalyst for long-term growth—if companies approach it with purpose, preparation, and a post-conference plan.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

B.C. Tech Sector Takes Global Stage at Web Summit

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British Columbia will showcase over 300 tech companies, including 250 startups, at Web Summit Vancouver from May 27–30. Held at the Vancouver Convention Centre, the global event is expected to draw thousands of tech leaders, investors, and media.

With support from a $14.8 million public investment, and an anticipated $93 million economic impact in 2025 alone, the event highlights B.C.’s $55.5 billion tech sector. The new Naturally Innovative Alliance is coordinating efforts to boost global awareness, host delegations, and promote investment. The BC Pavilion and insider investor tours will spotlight cleantech, life sciences, and digital media innovations.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.