Vancouver, BC – May 27, 2025 — Web Summit Vancouver 2025 launched with record-breaking momentum, drawing 15,727 attendees from 117 countries to the Vancouver Convention Centre. In its Canadian debut, the globally renowned tech conference has already made history, setting a bold precedent for innovation on the West Coast.
From the outset, the venue buzzed with energy as entrepreneurs, investors, developers, executives, policymakers, and media converged to engage in one of the most dynamic opening days in Web Summit’s history.
A Historic Debut for Startups
A standout figure: 1,108 startups from 64 countries are exhibiting — the highest ever for a first-year Web Summit event. Notably, 44% of these startups are founded or co-founded by women, marking a significant step toward greater gender diversity in tech.
“Seeing such strong representation from women-led startups is not just encouraging — it’s essential,” said Katherine Lai, a Toronto-based founder.
Global Reach, Local Impact
With 50 trade delegations in attendance — including from South Korea, Türkiye, Nigeria, and Ukraine — Vancouver has become a global hub for tech diplomacy and deal-making. The opening night was filled with networking, investor meetings, and startup pitches echoing through the halls.
Industry Powerhouses and Investor Presence
Web Summit Vancouver welcomed 159 partners, including Microsoft, Mastercard, Fujitsu, IBM, Figma, and Talkdesk, all showcasing innovations across AI, fintech, and the future of work. A strong investor presence — 681 representatives from firms like Thiel Capital, Khosla Ventures, 500 Global, and Initialized Capital — added to the event’s high-stakes atmosphere.
“The density of talent and ambition here is world-class,” said Maria Zhang, an angel investor from San Francisco.
More Than a Conference
Set against Vancouver’s iconic mountain and harbor views, the opening ceremony emphasized the event’s broader mission: to foster global collaboration, tackle shared challenges, and shape the future of technology.
“Canada represents openness, diversity, and technical brilliance — it’s the perfect place to host a global conversation about the future,” said Paddy Cosgrave, Web Summit founder and CEO.
What’s Next
With four days of programming ahead, topics will span AI regulation, climate tech, cybersecurity, digital identity, startup funding, and the growing influence of women and underrepresented voices in tech.
Web Summit Vancouver 2025 is more than a debut — it’s a defining moment for global innovation, with Vancouver as its stage.
