Vancouver recently played host to its first-ever Web Summit, a massive tech conference that brought together innovators, investors, and industry leaders from around the globe. Held from May 27-30, the event transformed the city into a bustling hub of technological advancement, fostering connections and showcasing groundbreaking startups.
The conference kicked off on the afternoon of May 27 with an energetic opening ceremony. Paddy Cosgrave, CEO and founder of Web Summit, and Vancouver Mayor Ken Shim welcomed a packed audience, setting an optimistic tone for the days ahead. The excitement was palpable as attendees anticipated three days filled with new technologies, insightful pitches, and unparalleled networking opportunities.
Who Attended and What Was Explored?
Web Summit Vancouver drew a diverse crowd. Entrepreneurs promoting their startups were a significant presence, seeking investors and talent to fuel their ventures. These innovative companies spanned various sectors, including health, fitness, finance, travel, biomedical technologies, and, notably, the rapidly expanding fields of machine learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Beyond startups, the conference attracted a wide range of professionals, including IT specialists, businesses looking to recruit talent, and individuals eager to connect and share ideas. The discussions focused on developing fields crucial for a thriving Canadian economy, from AI and agricultural tech to clean energy, sustainability, and quantum computing.
The event also featured a robust lineup of key speakers across multiple stages, including the prominent Centre Stage. Partners, media, and investors were all on hand, contributing to the vibrant ecosystem. Special programs like Women in Tech, Black Innovation Zone, Developers Program, and Indigenous Attendee Program underscored the summit’s commitment to inclusivity and diverse representation within the tech community.
Beyond the Conference Walls: Networking and Vancouver’s Charm
The Web Summit experience extended beyond the Vancouver Convention Centre. Night Summits offered unique networking opportunities at various downtown Vancouver locations like the Bentall Centre, Yaletown’s Helmcken Plaza, and the Yaletown Brewing Company. Thursday evening saw attendees venturing to The Shipyards in North Vancouver, accessible by ferry, providing a scenic backdrop for further connections.
A vital part of the summit’s success was the dedicated team of volunteers who provided invaluable assistance with directions, information, and a warm welcome to all. Their efforts significantly enhanced the attendee experience.
Adding a unique and invigorating element to the conference were the Group Power Walks. Led by Gherardo from Milan, Italy, these walks took place before the summit on Tuesday afternoon and after on Friday evening. They offered an excellent chance for attendees to network, get some exercise, and enjoy the stunning waterfront views as they approached Stanley Park.
Navigating the Summit and the Venue
The Web Summit App proved to be an indispensable tool for attendees. Its comprehensive features allowed users to plan and personalize their schedules by accessing the full conference agenda. The app also facilitated seamless connections with other attendees, startups, and speakers, maximizing networking potential.
The Vancouver Convention Centre itself was an ideal venue. Situated by the water, it offered breathtaking surroundings. The interior was bright, spacious, and well-signed, making navigation effortless. Its glassed architecture flooded the building with natural light and provided stunning views of the surrounding area. The lower level housed a vast exhibition space, featuring numerous startup booths and larger displays from companies and countries. The media staff also received high praise for their helpfulness and professionalism in supporting interviews, press conferences, and providing a conducive environment for work and networking.
A Global Gathering with Local Flavor
The inaugural Web Summit Vancouver attracted over 15,000 international entrepreneurs, investors, media, and leaders, all gathered to connect the global tech world. The numbers are expected to grow significantly in future editions.
The event featured a stellar lineup of special guest speakers, including renowned American philosopher Dr. Cornel West, NBA champions JaVale McGee and Metta World Peace, and prominent figures like Jay Graber, CEO of Bluesky, and Ivan Zhang, co-founder of AI company Cohere.
Attendees also had the opportunity to explore Vancouver’s local highlights. Recommendations included visiting the VanDusen Botanical Gardens, Stanley Park, and enjoying meals at amazing waterside restaurants like Provence Marinaside, known for its outdoor patio and live jazz. The city’s fantastic cafes and efficient transit system, including buses, trains, and water taxis, were also highlighted, along with the mesmerizing sight of Harbour Air planes taking off from the Convention Centre waterfront.
Vancouver’s unique blend of rainforest, ocean, and mountains provides a stunning backdrop for its identity as a global hub for innovation, sustainability, and tech. It’s a city where creative minds push boundaries amidst breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring new perspectives through its diverse culture, world-class cuisine, and endless outdoor adventures.
The Web Summit Vancouver proved to be a resounding success, fostering solid connections and facilitating meaningful business interactions. We eagerly anticipate its return to Vancouver in May 2026 for its second year.
In the meantime, the Web Summit continues its global journey with the upcoming Web Summit Lisbon in Portugal in November 2025. For more information, visit vancouver.websummit.com and websummit.com. You can also review the Web Summit 2024 via the virtual tour and explore more on the app.
