We at BCBusiness regularly pause to take stock of what new ventures are up to in our province, and we’ve continued to be impressed. Like in this instance, or these ones, there’s always something or someone to applaud—probably because the world of tech is buzzing, even in this economy. 

On that note, the annual New Ventures BC competition, presented by Crown agency Innovate BC, is back for its 24th consecutive year to cheer on tech talent in B.C. Startups are invited to battle it out for $250,000 in cash and prizes—around 212 companies entered last year, with North Vancouver-based RetreatsandVenues winning the grand prize of $110,000 for building an online platform of more than 4,200 retreat venues. 

“As we kick off this year’s competition, we’re thrilled to provide a platform for startups to gain visibility, forge partnerships, and secure the resources they need to thrive,” said New Ventures BC executive director Angie Schick in a release. “The next six months promise to be an exciting journey as we discover a new crop of talented startups.” 

Reforestation company Flash Forest (with 30 Under 30 winner Marc Apduhan on board) secured $11.4 million in Series A last year. The company has made major headway since participating in New Venture BC’s 2020 competition, the same year that Nanaimo startup aDolus Technology snagged the top prize. Meanwhile, another New Venture BC alumni and biotech leader AbCellera just started building a 380,000-square-foot HQ in Mount Pleasant. 

“These are the types of companies keeping our province at the forefront of the tech world while helping to solve some of today’s most pressing challenges,” said minister of jobs, economic development and innovation Brenda Bailey.

Over 3,500 startups have participated in the New Ventures BC contest since 2000. To participate in this year’s competition, apply here by April 11.