When you think about tech, what’s the first place you think of? Maybe it’s Silicon Valley, Beijing, or Amsterdam. But does Vancouver, British Columbia ever pop into your head?

Just a short, 2-hour drive north of Seattle, Vancouver has quickly turned into one of the fastest growing tech hubs in Canada – with companies like Microsoft, SAP, Hootsuite and Slack all calling the city home. In fact, these examples are only a couple of the 10,200 companies that are thriving in BC, pushing our tech and innovation sector to grow by leaps and bounds every year.

You already know about our maple syrup, the Tim Horton’s addiction, and religious devotion to hockey. But what about our tech? We’re making all kinds of amazing breakthroughs north of the border – come and see them for yourself!

The #BCTECH Summit is the largest technology conference in Western Canada, showcasing British Columbia’s vibrant tech and innovation sectors. We’re expecting 6,000 attendees from over 15 countries at the 2018 conference – that’s thousands of tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, investors and curious minds, coming together to celebrate how far the tech sector has come and look forward to the future.

Together, we’ll explore some of today’s biggest tech topics, from blockchain to automation to the possibility of a robot revolution. You’ll get the chance to learn from global thought leaders, exchange knowledge and network with experts and peers alike. Technology is drastically transforming the world we live in; there’s no question about that. This is a unique chance to explore the opportunities it brings and discover how it can improve lives here and around the world.

This year, you can look forward to hearing from keynote speakers Jared Cohen (founder of Google Ideas and now CEO of Jigsaw) and Brent Bushnell (CEO and co-founder of Two Bit Circus), as well as leaders from companies like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Blue Origin and Lyft.

BC is home to dynamic tech companies, innovative researchers and passionate entrepreneurs with big ideas. We want the world to know about the opportunities that exist here—and that includes you!

The #BCTECH Summit isn’t all that Vancouver has to offer. I might be biased, but I think it’s one of the most beautiful places on earth – and I’m not alone! Vancouver has been voted one of the most livable cities in the world, with its mixture of outdoor activities and world-class attractions. If you’re looking for someplace to swim, hike or ski, we’ve got you covered, and our collection of top-notch restaurants, shopping and cultural entertainment ensures that there’s something for everyone to do. While you’re here for the Summit, take the time to visit some of BC’s top destinations, including Whistler, Vancouver Island and the Okanagan Valley. I promise you won’t regret it.

As a WTIA member, I’m offering you and your closest partners a special conference rate to encourage you to join us this spring. Use discount code WTIA to save $400 off a full ticket price.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur with a groundbreaking new product, a non-tech business using technology or an investor looking to support the newest B.C. tech stars, you’ll be inspired, informed and you’ll make new connections at the #BCTECH Summit. I hope to see you there!