Invest Vancouver / Key Industries / Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​AI isn’t just a buzzword here — it’s about solving problems and driving industries forward. From life sciences to clean tech, Metro Vancouver companies are using AI to develop life-saving drugs, safeguard businesses from cyber threats, and even make mining greener.

The region boasts more than 180 companies developing, integrating, and building AI and machine learning-based products and services with applications in diverse fields. Whether it’s agritech (Almanac, Terramera), robotics (A&K Robotics, Sanctuary AI), or life sciences (Variational AI, AbCellera), the region is turning AI potential into business success.

There’s nothing “artificial” about the Metro Vancouver region’s proven track record in AI:

$1.8+ billion USD

invested in AI companies with headquarters in the region from 2018 through 2023.

Top 3

in AI-development markets in Canada (accounting for 60% of all jobs of AI-specialty talent)11

Investments in AI firms, headquartered in Metro Vancouver region (USD, millions)

​​

Areas of specialization​

Metro Vancouver companies don’t just experiment with AI… they deploy it to solve big challenges. From improving drug discovery to stopping cyber threats before they happen, AI here isn’t just hype, it’s high-impact. The region is home to pioneering AI innovators across multiple sectors

Life SciencesAgritechRoboticsMinetech
Software as a Service (SaaS)Cleantech
Clarius AI
Molecular You
Variational AI
Terramera
Semios
Ecoation
Sanctuary AI
Apera AI
A&K Robotics
Weir Motion Metrics
Ideon Technologies
CoPilot AI
Gumloop​
Browse AI
Intuitive AIv
​Clir Renewables

The region’s AI ecosystem has grown over time with major multinational firms making the move to the region.

  • 2019: Fujitsu, a leading Japanese information technology and services company, selects Vancouver for its global AI headquarters.
  • 2020: Mastercard invests $510 million to establish a global tech innovation centre in Vancouver focused on improving digital transaction security through advancements in cybersecurity. AI, and the internet of Things.
  • 2021: Weir Group acquires Vancouver-based Motion Metrics to integrate their AI and machine vision technology in its mining value chain.
  • 2022: Glia, a New York-based unicorn acquires Vancouver-based Finn AI to enhance AI and chatbot capabilities for virtual banking.
  • 2023: Silo AI, Europe's largest private AI lab opens new office in Vancouver to develop AI solutions in healthcare, manufacturing, and smart cities.
  • 2024: Wayve, a leading developer of AI-based driving software for autonomous vehicles, opens an AI hub in Vancouver.


The vibrant technology scene in Vancouver has fostered a diverse talent pool capable of driving new breakthroughs in AI with global impact.

Wayve

announcing the opening of their AI hub in the region

Research ecosystem​

The region’s research universities are at the forefront of AI innovation.​

Programs and incentives

Footnotes

1 CBRE Scoring Tech Talent 2024

Ready to connect?

Contact Nikola Fischerova, Sector Development Lead, High-tech​

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience. By continuing to use this site, you accept our use of cookies. View our privacy statement.