Victoria, BC – January 28, 2026 — Nominations are now open and early bird ticket sales have officially begun for the 2026 VIATEC Awards, Greater Victoria’s flagship celebration of technology, innovation, and the people behind one of the region’s most important economic sectors.

Taking place on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at the Victoria Conference Centre, the VIATEC Awards will once again bring the tech community together to recognize standout companies, leaders, and changemakers across Greater Victoria’s $5.9 billion tech sector.

“This night is about celebrating the impact and creativity of our tech community in a way that reflects who we really are,” said Dan Gunn, CEO of VIATEC. “The VIATEC Awards are intentionally not a traditional gala. They’re energetic, inclusive, and genuinely fun — because that’s who this community is.”

“We introduced a design theme back in 2012 when we created a late-night show set with a Star Wars element, complete with the world’s largest indoor lightsaber battle,” reflected Tessa Davies, Director of Communications and Events of VIATEC. “That was all kept from the guests as a surprise, and since then, the tech community has wanted to be a part of it from the get-go in order to showcase their creative and fun side.”

This year’s theme is: Western Neon

“Western Neon captures the energy of the West as a place of ideas, creativity, and reinvention,” said Gunn. “It blends the glow of modern innovation with the spirit of building at the edge—where technology, imagination, and community shape what comes next.”

Nominations and ticket Sales are now open

• Nominations are open now through February 17, 2026 
• Early bird tickets are available until February 16, 2026
• Full details, the nomination form, and tickets are available at www.viatecawards.com

Any tech company or individual operating in Greater Victoria is welcome to nominate, regardless of membership status. This event isn’t possible without the involvement of the community, and VIATEC encourages the community to step forward in order to highlight the incredible achievements being made behind the scenes.

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM, followed by an after party
Location: Carson Hall, Victoria Conference Centre
Address: 720 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC

Agenda Highlights

• 5:00–6:00 PM: Networking, seating, welcome
• 6:00–7:00 PM: Creative challenge and dinner
• 7:00 PM: VIATEC Awards show begins
• 9:00–11:00 PM: After party at Carson Hall

Key Dates at a Glance

• Jan 21 – Feb 17: Nominations open
• Feb 16: Early bird ticket pricing ends
• Feb 17: General ticket pricing begins
• Mar 16: Seating request cutoff
• Mar 20: Guest information deadline
• Mar 23 (12:00 PM): Ticket sales close
• Apr 1: Show time!

Sponsorship Opportunities

The VIATEC Awards are made possible by the support of community sponsors. Organizations interested in sponsorship opportunities can view the sponsorship package at www.viatecawards.com or contact Tessa Davies at tessa@viatec.ca.

About VIATEC
VIATEC is Victoria’s technology industry association, representing and supporting the region’s technology companies, entrepreneurs, and talent. For more than two decades, VIATEC has worked to build a connected, inclusive, and globally competitive tech ecosystem in Greater Victoria.

Media Contact:
Tessa Davies
VIATEC
tessa@viatec.ca

Media Library:
• 2025 Photo Gallery
• 2025 Video Recap
• 2026 Event Poster
• VIATEC logo