DigiBC Startup Island

Launching BC’s Next Generation of Creative Studios

DigiBC Startup Island: Launching BC’s Next Generation of Creative Studios

DigiBC Startup Island is a dedicated showcase of British Columbia’s emerging video game and creative technology studios.

Showcasing the next wave of innovation from British Columbia’s video game and creative technology community.

Program Highlights

Over three days, Startup Island offers a platform for founders to pitch, meet global investors and publishers, network with industry leaders, and gain visibility on one of the world’s biggest tech stages. It's where BC’s next generation of creative leaders take flight.

  • Daily Showcase (May 28–30 | Open Hours)
    Explore open-floor activations featuring BC’s most exciting startup studios. Meet the creators behind innovative games, XR experiences, and new creative technology platforms. Enjoy live demos and casual meet-and-greets with investors, media, and industry insiders.

  • Investor & Publisher Meetings (Ongoing May 28–30)
    Take advantage of curated 1:1 matchmaking organized in advance through DigiBC’s Beta Lounge and the Web Summit app. Private meeting spaces are also available for deeper conversations.

  • Exclusive Access
    Participation is open to Startup Island participants and select Web Summit badge holders.

Companies at DigiBC Startup Island

TIMBRE GAMES

Timbre Games is a Vancouver-based game development studio founded by Joe Nickolls, focused on crafting original interactive experiences with a strong emphasis on creativity and player community.

BUFFALO BUFFALO

Buffalo Buffalo, led by Experience Director Patrick Owens, creates story-rich, visually stunning games that blend generative AI, VR, and innovative gameplay, exemplified by their project Fresh Tracks.

GASKET GAMES CORP.

Founded by Jeff Lydell, Gasket Games specializes in online multiplayer games with unique spectator-driven mechanics, offering fresh cooperative experiences like Overmind.

ORIGINAL FIRE GAMES

Original Fire Games is an indie studio recognized for developing accessible yet competitive racing games, showcasing a commitment to fun and inclusivity in gameplay.

TIDEPOOL GAMES

Founded by Carolina Ellis, Tidepool Games produces heartfelt and innovative gaming experiences, such as Big Country, an exploration RPG set in a beautifully stylized natural world.

FABLEWARE

Arthur Protasio's Fableware is an award-winning storytelling studio crafting original, narrative-driven IPs across games and transmedia, currently working on the musical adventure Heart & Harmony.

81MONKEYS

81monkeys, founded by Stephane Cotichini, focuses on blending entertainment with meaningful design, drawing from a rich background of industry experience.

Showcase. Connect. Launch – on the Global Stage.

Opportunities for Startups

Showcase your studio to the world by joining one of our Startup Island packages:

  • A minimum of three event tickets per startup, granting full access

  • Featured profiles on DigiBC’s website and app

  • Opportunities for startups to apply to activation programs

  • Access to dedicated startup lounges

  • Access to a startup success manager for pre-event support and logistics

Choose from:

  • Eight startup packages (three-day exhibition)

  • 24 startup packages (one-day exhibition)