Everything You Need to Know About Collision Conference 2025

Collision Conference, also known as Web Summit Vancouver starting in 2025, is one of North America's most prominent technology conferences. Renowned for gathering innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, and tech media from around the globe, this annual event is entering a new era with its move from Toronto to Vancouver. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this influential event, its impact, and what to expect in 2025.

What is Collision Conference?

Collision Conference is a global technology conference organized by the same team behind the iconic Web Summit Lisbon. It has earned a reputation as North America’s fastest-growing tech event, attracting more than 40,000 attendees from over 130 countries. It’s a place where tech meets business, and connections lead to innovation.

Why the Name Change to Web Summit Vancouver?

With its relocation to Vancouver in May 2025, the conference will be officially rebranded as Web Summit Vancouver. The rebranding aligns with other international events under the Web Summit umbrella, such as Web Summit Lisbon, Web Summit Rio, and Web Summit Doha. Despite the name change, it will retain the essence of Collision Conference: innovation, disruption, and connection.

When and Where is Web Summit Vancouver Happening?

Web Summit Vancouver is scheduled for May 2025, although the exact dates are still to be announced. The event will take place at the Vancouver Convention Centre, a stunning venue that overlooks the Pacific Ocean and the North Shore mountains. Additional venues across Metro Vancouver may also be used, creating a city-wide experience.

Highlights and Scale of the Event

• 40,000+ attendees
• 130+ countries represented
• 800+ speakers
• 2,000+ exhibiting startups
• 1,000+ investors
• 1,400+ members of the media
• 300+ global partners

Web Summit Vancouver will feature keynotes, panel discussions, startup showcases, investor meetings, networking lounges, and interactive exhibitions, all designed to foster meaningful connections.

Who Attends Collision Conference / Web Summit Vancouver?

The event draws an impressive array of professionals including:

• Founders of unicorn startups
• Executives from major tech companies
• Investors and venture capitalists
• Policymakers and thought leaders
• Journalists and tech bloggers

Whether you’re a startup looking for funding or a corporate leader seeking innovation insights, Collision Conference is the place to be.

Why Vancouver?

Vancouver is a global tech hub on the rise. Its strong talent pool, high quality of life, and vibrant startup ecosystem made it a natural next step for Web Summit. According to organizers, the city’s energy, diversity, and technological advancements echo the spirit of innovation that defines the conference.

Mayor Ken Sim summed it up best: "Vancouver is ready to welcome the world. We’re a young, energetic city full of opportunity."

Economic Impact of Web Summit Vancouver

According to Destination Vancouver, the economic impact of Web Summit Vancouver is expected to be massive:

• $57 million in direct local spending
• $93 million in overall economic impact

These figures reflect spending on hotels, transportation, local businesses, restaurants, and venue services. But the long-term benefits go beyond numbers. Web Summit Vancouver positions the city as a global destination for tech, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Government and Industry Support

The relocation was made possible by a coordinated effort involving:

• Destination Vancouver
• Government of British Columbia
• Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan)
• City of Vancouver
• Local tech leaders and Frontier Collective

This support reflects a strong commitment to growing BC’s innovation economy and elevating Vancouver’s international profile.

How Web Summit Vancouver Compares to Other Events

Before Web Summit Vancouver, Vancouver hosted SIGGRAPH — a leading conference in computer graphics — four times, drawing up to 16,600 attendees. With over 40,000 expected attendees, Web Summit Vancouver will far surpass any previous tech conference in the city, becoming the largest event of its kind.

Topics and Tracks to Expect

Attendees can expect in-depth programming across various domains:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• FinTech and Web3
• HealthTech and BioTech
• Sustainability and CleanTech
• Future of Work
• Media and Marketing
• E-commerce and Retail Tech

Each topic is curated with top-tier speakers, hands-on workshops, and opportunities to engage with emerging tech trends.

What This Means for Startups and Investors

For startups, Collision Conference / Web Summit Vancouver offers unparalleled visibility, access to funding, and the chance to pitch in front of thousands. For investors, it provides curated access to promising early-stage ventures in a thriving ecosystem.

The event also includes Impact Startup tracks, specifically aimed at ventures focused on solving pressing global issues, aligning with sustainability and social responsibility.

Global Perspective with a Local Flavor

Web Summit Vancouver will bring the world to BC, but it will also shine a spotlight on the local ecosystem. Expect to see strong participation from Canadian startups, universities, accelerators, and innovation hubs like Innovate BC and BC Tech Association.

This synergy between local and global will drive collaboration, learning, and long-term partnerships.

How to Prepare: Your Web Summit Vancouver Starter Kit

To make the most of your experience, come prepared. Here’s a quick starter kit to set you up for success:

• Digital Business Card: Essential for networking. Instantly share your contact info, links, and portfolio with potential partners, investors, and clients. Make a memorable impression and simplify follow-ups.
• Notebook or Note App: Jot down insights from panels, connections made, and follow-up actions.
• Comfortable Clothing and Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing.
• Portable Charger: Keep your phone powered up throughout the day.
• Business Cards (if needed): While digital is king, some still prefer traditional cards.
• Download the Event App: Get real-time updates, venue maps, and personalized schedules.

A digital business card stands out as the most essential item. In a tech-driven conference, it positions you as innovative and prepared while streamlining your networking process.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Attend Web Summit Vancouver 2025

If you’re in tech, business, or innovation, Collision Conference — now Web Summit Vancouver — is a can’t-miss event. It’s not just a conference; it’s a movement shaping the future of technology and business.

Whether you’re attending to network, invest, learn, or showcase your product, Web Summit Vancouver will deliver value, inspiration, and lasting connections.

Stay tuned for the exact dates and speaker announcements. Until then, mark your calendar for May 2025 and get ready to experience the next chapter of Collision Conference — now in its bold new home: Vancouver.