The BC Innovation Council (BCIC) is a province-wide acceleration program that gives entrepreneurs the opportunity to expand their business, learn the tools needed to succeed, and seek mentorship from seasoned professionals. Today, the Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services Andrew Wilkinson and Allan Stroet, Economic Development Officer at BVEDA, announced a partnership that will see the program expand into Northern BC with the inclusion of the Bulkley Valley Economic Development Association (BVEDA)
BCIC launched in 2011 and has seen 428 entrepreneurs in 275 companies pass through its program, and generated 758 new jobs and raised more than $62.9 million in investment. The cost of the Venture Acceleration Program is $200 per month.
“We are excited to bring the Venture Acceleration Program to the northwest and to get technology innovators working with EiR Carl Anderson, who truly understands the challenges in operating a small business in rural areas,” said Allan Stroet, Economic Development Officer, BVEDA. “There are huge opportunities for tech-related businesses to scale up their operations or introduce new ideas to the market with all of the industrial activity taking place around us.”