Like many great ideas, YYC DataCon started as a conversation among friends.
A decade ago, Calgary’s data scientists, AI researchers, and analytics professionals were gathering in small meetups across the city. Soon, the data community started to realize they were competing for audiences rather than collaborating. The conversations kept coming back to the same question: Why don’t we bring everyone together under one banner?
So they did.
That idea has since turned into YYC DataCon, an annual conference that brings together data professionals, industry leaders, and researchers to explore the latest in AI, machine learning, and analytics.
“DataCon is the annual conference, but it was actually started by our nonprofit organization, YYC Data Society,” says Josh Rainbow, executive director of YYC DataCon. “They kind of formed this cabal, if you can call it that … they just wanted to band together.”
Five years later, one of the founders, Theresa Smith, threw out a bold idea: What if we threw a Comic-Con, but for data people? And by late 2019, they were building it.
The first official YYC DataCon was planned to launch in early 2020 — but then the pandemic hit.
Instead of giving up, they pivoted online and the response was overwhelming. Approximately 1,200 people showed up that first year. By the time they hosted the second in-person conference in 2024, demand was so high they had to cap ticket sales.
Now, YYC DataCon 2025 is bigger than ever, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and international experts for three days of conversations, workshops, panels, and fireside chats.
What to expect at YYC DataCon 2025
Happening Feb. 27 to Mar. 1 at the BMO Centre and Platform Calgary, YYC DataCon 2025 is shaping up to be its biggest event yet with more than 60 speakers and 2,500 expected attendees.
The theme, “Business Reimagined: Where Data Fuels Innovation,” captures a shift in how AI and data are shaping industries.
“The biggest thing that I think will set DataCon apart this year is that in the past, DataCon was a very grassroots event, built by the community for the community,” says Rainbow. “But this year, we’re built by the community, industry, and government.”
That means broader discussions, more international speakers, and a push to connect Calgary’s growing tech workforce with global experts and investors.
Some key sessions this year include:
- Alberta’s Digital Backbone: Scaling Data Centres for the Energy Transition and AI Revolution: Thursday, Feb. 27, at Platform Calgary
YYC DataCon kicks off with a high-impact discussion on Alberta’s growing role in AI-driven energy infrastructure, featuring experts in data centers, energy transition, and regulation. - Revolutionizing Healthcare: The Role of AI and Data in Life Sciences Innovation: Thursday, Feb. 27, at Platform Calgary
This panel will explore how AI and data-driven solutions are reshaping healthcare, from drug discovery to personalized medicine. It will feature insights from key figures actively shaping the future of life sciences innovation — many of whom bring deep expertise in investment, venture capital, and economic development. - Sparking Change through Creativity: The Power of Visual Storytelling with Data: Friday, Feb. 28, at the BMO Centre
This session explores the intersection of data, creativity, and motion graphics, showing how visual storytelling can make complex information more engaging and impactful. Leading the discussion is David Kativu, creative director at Hot Neon Productions, one of Canada’s top learning and animation studios.
“There’s so many impactful speakers that are going to be coming,” says Rainbow. “I’m just excited to see everyone take the stage and share their knowledge with our attendees.”
Beyond the panels, the event will feature intimate fireside chats, networking opportunities, and hands-on workshops, including a student showcase highlighting projects from Mount Royal University, the University of Calgary, and other institutions.
Why this event matters for Calgary’s innovation economy
Calgary has always been a city that builds things. First, it was oil and gas infrastructure. Now, it’s data-driven businesses. Events like YYC DataCon are part of a larger shift, one that’s putting Calgary on the map as a rising AI and technology hub.
“Calgary has already shown its ability to be a world leader,” says Rainbow. “I know a lot of people who have come out of the Calgary ecosystem and now work with international power and energy transition companies. So the knowledge is definitely transitive.”
But for that to happen, industry needs to be aligned with talent. Rainbow adds that sharing that knowledge at events like YYC DataCon is especially important now, as more and more people move to Calgary from across the country. “Everybody wants to come to Calgary,” he says.
With that influx, there’s an increased need to build connections and support for local startups, talent, and investment.
“We try to set up the right situations with the right people,” Rainbow explains. “That’s why we’re creating so many curated conversations this year — to facilitate that step, change, and allow those leaders to share their insights with one another.”
How to make the most of YYC DataCon
To support these connections, YYC DataCon is structured across three key days, with different sessions tailored to various levels of access.
Day 1: Industry and government focus (Feb. 27)
This day is for those looking to build strategic relationships, discuss AI adoption at an enterprise level, and shape policy conversations.
- Exclusive executive roundtables with industry leaders.
- B2B networking and premium sessions designed for decision-makers.
- Private curated VIP dinner for high-level networking.
Day 2: The tech ecosystem (Feb. 28)
This is the main event day, open to professionals, students, and enthusiasts who want to learn, network, and engage with Calgary’s tech community.
- Keynotes, panels, and workshops featuring industry leaders, startups, and investors.
- Hands-on sessions to explore AI, data, and real-world applications.
- YYC DataCon After Party
Day 3: Community and social innovation focus (Mar. 1)
This day highlights how AI and data science can drive social impact, with opportunities for hands-on learning and community collaboration.
- Community-driven discussions.
- Hackathon focused on mental health data and AI for social good.
- Workshops and networking opportunities for students and early-career professionals.
Which pass is right for you?
- General Pass: Access to days two and three, including keynotes, panels, workshops, and general networking events. Ideal for professionals, students, and tech enthusiasts.
- Corporate Pass: Access to all three days, including premium networking events, the Mix & Mingle Cocktail Party, and the Executive Breakfast. Designed for professionals looking to grow their networks.
- Executive Pass: Full access to everything, including exclusive fireside chats, the VIP dinner, and invite-only high-level discussions. Best for senior executives shaping strategy and policy.
The countdown is on
With just two weeks until YYC DataCon 2025, anticipation is building. Rainbow says they’re almost sold out of executive tickets, and corporate tickets aren’t far behind.
For those looking to attend, now is the time to secure a spot.
“If anybody’s looking to come, definitely grab their tickets while they can,” says Rainbow. “Especially for those more intimate fireside chat conversations happening on day one.”
Beyond the ticket numbers, though, the event also represents a milestone in Calgary’s growing reputation as a place where AI, data, and innovation thrive, says Rainbow.
“We have one of those once-in-a-generation opportunities,” Rainbow continues. “You’ve seen it happen in Denver, Miami, [and] Silicon Valley. We’re not looking to be any of those segments. We’re looking to be the best version of Calgary possible.”
With YYC DataCon just days away, Calgary’s tech community is preparing for discussions on AI, data, and innovation. The real work (and the real conversations) start when the doors open.
To get tickets to the event, visit YYC DataCon’s website here.
Digital Journal is the official media partner of YYC DataCon 2025.
