The first two Web Summit Vancouver editions drew larger published attendance in 2026, but those counts measure the event, not the maturity of Vancouver’s technology sector. The organiser reported 15,727 attendees, 1,108 startups and 681 investors in 2025. For 2026, it reported 20,235 attendees, 1,197 startups and 768 investors from more than 100 countries, describing attendance as nearly 30% higher year over year. Web Summit’s 2025 figures and 2026 figures
The 2025 report says attendees came from 117 countries, while the 2026 report says “over 100.” Those descriptions do not establish whether the geographic mix broadened or narrowed. Attendees, exhibiting startups and investors are separate measures; none is a count of local jobs, completed investments or long-term business growth.
The 2026 opening night was listed for May 11, with the main three-day programme running May 12–14 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. The organiser’s schedule covered subjects including AI, chips, technology policy, film and gaming, supply chains and clean technology. Its 2025 report listed AI and machine learning, SaaS, health and wellness, fintech, and sustainability among the startup sectors represented. These are descriptions of each event’s programme and exhibitors, not a census of companies, revenue or vacancies across Metro Vancouver. Archived 2026 schedule
It is fair to say that the organiser reported more attendees in the second edition. Calling Vancouver “the next Silicon Valley,” or assigning the event a long-term investment or employment impact, would require separate independent evidence. Web Summit’s own releases are direct sources for its attendance and programme figures, but they are organiser reports rather than independent economic-impact studies.
The organiser now lists the next edition for May 25–28, 2027, at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Confirm the dates and venue against the event’s current notice before making plans. The venue lists SkyTrain, buses and the SeaBus among its transit options; check the TransLink Trip Planner for a route and service times close to your visit. For a general introduction to the city, see our Vancouver guide. Web Summit Vancouver’s 2027 information and the venue’s Getting Here page
Photo: Vancouver Convention Centre from Coal Harbour Park, photographed by Joe Mabel in 2023, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Displayed at a site-adapted size. This illustrates the venue; it is not a Web Summit event photo. Image and rights record; CC BY-SA 4.0 licence. Facts checked October 14, 2026.
