New Ventures BC has officially announced the 15 innovative startups advancing directly to Round 3 of its prestigious 2025 competition, presented by Innovate BC. This annual event, now in its 25th year, celebrates and supports entrepreneurship within British Columbia’s thriving tech sector. The selected ventures span a diverse array of industries, reflecting the province’s dynamic startup ecosystem.
Top 15 Startups Advancing Directly to Round 3
From a competitive pool of 199 companies evaluated by a panel of 145 expert judges, the following 15 ventures have secured their places in the next stage:
- A-Scent Innovations – Vancouver, BC
- Axis Base Systems Inc. – North Vancouver, BC
- BryoSphere Biotechnologies – Vancouver, BC
- CanDry Technologies Inc. – Coquitlam, BC
- Cater Dash – Burnaby, BC
- EyecareX – Vancouver, BC
- Metallyze – Burnaby, BC
- NeuroCog.AI – Squamish, BC
- Non-Euclidean – Vancouver, BC
- PeerSupport.io – Langley, BC
- Precision Aquatics Ltd. – Lions Bay, BC
- Refoundry – New Westminster, BC
- Sigen AI – Vancouver, BC
- Soiltrackers Solutions Inc. – Richmond, BC
- Syrina Therapeutics – Vancouver, BC
These startups have demonstrated exceptional promise, from novel AI applications to breakthroughs in clean tech and biotech, making them stand out in a highly competitive field.
Round 2.5: A Second Chance at Advancement
In addition to the 15 companies that have already advanced, another 27 promising ventures have been invited to participate in Round 2.5. Scheduled for June 18, this supplementary phase allows these startups an additional opportunity to impress the judging panel and earn their place in the Top 25 overall.
The ten highest-performing teams from Round 2.5 will join the 15 already selected, completing the cohort that will compete in the final stages of the competition. This model, now a staple in the New Ventures BC format, ensures that innovative potential is not overlooked and that late bloomers have a path to success.
A Legacy of Innovation and Support
The New Ventures BC Competition has long served as a launchpad for early-stage tech startups in British Columbia. With more than $250,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs, along with access to a rich network of mentors, industry experts, and investors, the competition provides critical support at a formative stage in a startup’s lifecycle.
Over the years, alumni of the competition have gone on to raise millions in venture capital, create hundreds of jobs, and become influential players in their respective industries. From fintech to agri-tech, the competition has helped cultivate a thriving ecosystem where innovation flourishes.
What Comes Next?
The competition now shifts focus to preparation and development for the upcoming pitch presentations in Round 3. Selected startups will receive intensive mentoring, business planning workshops, and pitch coaching to refine their value propositions and business models.
These sessions are designed to help participants not only compete effectively but also strengthen their foundations for long-term growth. Many past winners cite this mentorship phase as the most valuable part of the experience, giving them access to insights and resources that continue to benefit their businesses long after the competition concludes.
Community Excitement Builds
The buzz surrounding this year’s competition is especially high given the quality and breadth of the applicant pool. Community stakeholders, from university innovation hubs to venture capitalists, are paying close attention to how these startups progress.
This surge in interest highlights the growing importance of innovation as a driver of economic growth in British Columbia. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, digital health, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing, this year’s cohort reflects both regional strengths and global tech trends.
Final Showcase and Awards
The competition will culminate in a final showcase event later this year, where the Top 25 startups will present to a panel of judges, industry leaders, and potential investors. Winners will be announced at a celebratory awards gala, recognizing excellence in innovation, scalability, and community impact.
With an expanded prize pool and greater public visibility than ever before, the 2025 New Ventures BC Competition promises to be a landmark year for both participants and the broader startup ecosystem in the province.
Aspiring entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts alike are encouraged to follow the journey as the next generation of BC innovators moves one step closer to realizing their visions.