October 14, 2025
In British Columbia, the story of genomics is not just about scientific discovery; it’s about the leap forward that happens when collaboration meets innovation and when science is applied to strengthen our health systems, environment and economy. For 25 years, Genome British Columbia (Genome BC) has brought together researchers, entrepreneurs, health leaders and policymakers to transform genomics from a promising science into a driving force for real world impact.
Because we built trust early, we now accelerate progress.
From our earliest days, Genome BC has played a central role in establishing the province as a leader in genomic research. We co-invested in foundational projects that mapped the human genome and identified critical markers for disease, agriculture and biodiversity. These efforts built the knowledge base and institutional trust that now allow us to move with agility, connecting ideas to investment and discovery to application.
Because we partnered across sectors, we now build resilience.
Our strength lies in the diversity of our collaborations. By working with provincial and federal governments, academic institutions, industry and Indigenous communities, we help weave genomics into the fabric of BC’s health, environmental and economic systems. Today, these connections are the reason genomic innovations can be rapidly mobilized to address complex challenges — from cancer care to climate change, from food security to pathogen surveillance.
Because we built agility into our model, we now respond in real time.
Emerging crises, whether global pandemics, climate-driven health threats or urgent gaps in biodiversity data require strategic, responsive action. Genome BC’s unique role in BC’s research and innovation ecosystem allows us to convene cross sector partners, pivot resources and absorb early risk, enabling rapid responses to critical issues while highlighting where sustained investment is needed most.
Because we invested early, bc companies now lead on the global stage.
Genome BC has long supported not just research, but the conditions that allow research to have real world impact. That includes early stage funding for startups, capacity building in bioinformatics and infrastructure that supports responsible innovation. Companies such as AbCellera, Aspect Biosystems and Precision NanoSystems benefited from Genome BC’s early support — two are now global leaders in biotech and one has been acquired by Danaher Corporation and integrated into Cytiva. Their trajectories show what’s possible when bold ideas meet early investment and sustained partnership.
Because we catalyze innovation, we’ve helped build a thriving ecosystem.
Genome BC’s work spans the entire innovation pipeline, from early discovery in labs to clinical implementation and from pilot projects in agriculture to environmental monitoring in remote communities. We don’t just fund projects; we create the conditions for them to scale, succeed and grow. Our role as a neutral convener ensures the right people and ideas converge at the right time — accelerating adoption, amplifying impact and optimizing genomic benefits, people and end-users alike. Today, BC’s life sciences sector is stronger because of this foundation, with genomics serving as a cornerstone of its continued growth.
Because we prioritize inclusion, we now shape a more equitable future.
Innovation without inclusion is incomplete. That’s why Genome BC has integrated equity, diversity and Indigenous engagement into our programs — from co-developing projects with Indigenous partners to supporting initiatives that address health disparities and ensure broader access to genomic tools. These principles aren’t just add-ons — they are essential for building a life sciences ecosystem that reflects and serves the people of BC.
Because we always plan for tomorrow, we’re ready for what comes next.
Genomics is no longer the future — it’s here. But its full potential will only be realized through sustained collaboration. As the demands on our healthcare, environment and food systems grow, so too must our collective readiness to respond. Genome BC will continue to be the connective tissue in BC’s life sciences ecosystem — identifying opportunities, reducing silos and enabling innovation that benefits all British Columbians. We’ve shown what’s possible when partnerships take root. The next chapter will deepen those connections, scale impact and prepare our province for the future.
This article appears in Genome BC’s 2024/25 Annual Report. View the whole report here.
