Inaugural event of the Fraser Valley chapter of the BC + AI Ecosystem Association scheduled for September 9, 2026 in Langley, bringing the region together around responsible AI
“AI is no longer something the Fraser Valley can afford to treat as a distant possibility. It is a present-day reality.”— Darren Coleman, Founder of FV+AI
Darren Coleman, Founder and CEO of Coleman Technologies, has established FV+AI (Fraser Valley AI), a fresh regional group under the BC + AI Ecosystem Association. FV+AI aims to unite entrepreneurs, tech leaders, developers, and interested locals throughout the Fraser Valley for discussions on practical, secure, and ethical AI implementation. The initial meetup is set for September 9, 2026 in Langley.
The BC + AI Ecosystem Association is a grassroots, province-wide initiative led by Executive Director Kris Krüg, grounded in the idea of “ecosystem, not empire.” Since its 2025 launch, it has expanded into a multidisciplinary network encompassing entrepreneurs, researchers, artists, students, and Indigenous knowledge keepers who are shaping responsible AI across British Columbia. FV+AI broadens that network into one of the province’s most rapidly expanding areas, building on the foundation and enthusiasm of the Surrey AI meetup community, with Matthew Schwartzman and Surrey AI contributing to the circumstances that enabled this launch.
“AI is no longer a future conversation for the Fraser Valley. It is a today conversation,” stated Darren Coleman, Founder of FV+AI and CEO of Coleman Technologies. “Leaders in Langley, Surrey, Abbotsford, and beyond need a local space where they can understand how to adopt AI securely, govern it responsibly, and link it to tangible outcomes. Kris and the BC + AI community have created something impressive across the province. FV+AI delivers that same energy closer to home.”
Krüg has frequently remarked that “AI is best when it brings people together,” a concept that guides the ecosystem’s community-centered strategy. FV+AI is constructed on that identical principle. Gatherings will be open, hands-on, and focused on the Fraser Valley, welcoming both seasoned business figures and any local resident curious about AI’s trajectory.
Most of BC’s AI discussion remains centered in downtown Vancouver, whereas Fraser Valley enterprises in construction, manufacturing, professional services, agriculture, and logistics encounter the same challenges as their urban equivalents: growing cybersecurity threats, uncertainties regarding AI governance, and the difficulty of converting new technology into measurable gains. FV+AI addresses that divide by offering a local venue for education, networking, and frank dialogue about what truly works.
Coleman contributes over 25 years of technology expertise to this effort. A cyber security authority recognized nationwide and co-author of the best-selling book Easy Prey, he has been highlighted by Forbes and ABC and has addressed business audiences throughout North America, including at Harvard. His company, Coleman Technologies, delivers managed IT services, cybersecurity, cloud strategy, and secure AI adoption advice to organizations across Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.
Initial FV+AI sessions will concentrate on subjects like AI governance, the cybersecurity implications of AI tools, real-world local examples, and methods for growing organizations to leverage AI for enhanced operational resilience without introducing additional risk.
The debut FV+AI gathering occurs on September 9, 2026 at the Coleman Technologies office in Langley. This launch event is intentionally kept small, and registration is available with approval via luma.com/langley-ai. Membership details can be found through the BC + AI Ecosystem at bc-ai.ca.
About Darren Coleman
Darren Coleman is a cyber security expert recognized nationwide, best-selling co-author of Easy Prey, and Founder and CEO of Coleman Technologies, a Langley-based firm specializing in managed IT, cybersecurity, and secure AI strategy. He has been featured by Forbes and ABC, and has addressed business audiences across North America, including at Harvard. Through FV+AI, he is dedicated to cultivating practical, community-grounded AI capabilities in the Fraser Valley. Learn more at bc-ai.ca/members/darren-coleman.
About the BC + AI Ecosystem Association
The BC + AI Ecosystem Association is a grassroots British Columbia community fostering practical, responsible AI skills throughout the province. Founded by Executive Director Kris Krüg, the association links members via meetups, working groups, certifications, and events. Learn more at bc-ai.ca.
Darren Coleman
Coleman Technologies
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