Launching April 2026
Building the Data Foundation for Vancouver Island's AI Future
DAVI is a regional ecosystem initiative bringing together 60+ stakeholders across government, academia, Crown corporations, and tech to build a dynamic data services cluster on south Vancouver Island. Co-led by Circle Innovation and Victoria Data Society.
About the Initiative
What is DAVI?
DAVI stands for Data and AI Vancouver Island. It is a coordinated effort to position south Vancouver Island as a nationally competitive data services cluster, one that strengthens British Columbia's and Canada's capacity in the global AI economy.
The region already has the ingredients: a 620+ company startup ecosystem, deep sector expertise in ocean tech and health, world-class research institutions, and a collaborative culture that connects government, academia, and industry. What has been missing is a shared framework to align these strengths around data as a strategic asset.
That is what DAVI provides. Co-led by Circle Innovation and Victoria Data Society, and backed by 60+ stakeholders, DAVI is building the connective tissue between organisations, data, and opportunity.
Our Focus
Five Strategic Pillars
DAVI's strategy is built around five interconnected priorities. Together, they create the conditions for a thriving, self-sustaining data services cluster.
Regional Advantage
Why Vancouver Island?
South Vancouver Island is not starting from scratch. The ecosystem, talent, and collaborative culture are already here. DAVI connects them with purpose.
620+ Company Startup Ecosystem
South Vancouver Island is home to a thriving tech cluster generating over $6 billion in annual revenue, with deep expertise in SaaS, clean tech, and defence.
World-Class Technical Talent
The University of Victoria, Camosun College, and Royal Roads University produce a steady pipeline of skilled graduates in computer science, data science, and engineering.
Unique Sector Expertise
From ocean sciences and marine technology to Indigenous data sovereignty and health informatics, the region holds nationally significant domain knowledge.
Cross-Sector Collaboration
Government, academia, Crown corporations, and startups already work closely together here. DAVI formalises that collaboration with shared purpose.
Quality of Life
Victoria consistently ranks among Canada's most livable cities. That matters for attracting and retaining the talent a data services cluster needs.
Data Sovereignty Leadership
Proximity to First Nations communities and progressive governance creates an opportunity to lead on ethical, sovereign-first data practices.
Ready to Shape the Future?
Whether you represent government, industry, academia, or a startup, there is a place for you in DAVI. Join 60+ stakeholders building something that matters for the region and for Canada.