Tech hub Accelerate Okanagan has received $473,000 from the federal government to scale up its programming and provide its services to new communities.
Specifically, Accelerate Okanagan plans to focus on its Startup Basics and RevUP programs. Startup Basics, targeted to early-stage entrepreneurs and career changers, focuses on providing structured courses, mentorship, and peer-to-peer engagement to teach participants the fundamentals of running a startup. RevUP’s six-month program helps more established companies with a customized plan, and provides workshops focused on customer acquisition and capital management.
“I strongly believe that mentorship programs are key to the successful growth of any company and critical in creating a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Raghwa Gopal, CEO of Accelerate Okanagan. “Through this initiative, our mentorship programs will now have greater reach and impact and this will ensure we continue to build a strong future for Canada’s economy.”
With the funding, Accelerate Okanagan will be able to expand these two programs while adding a focus on clean technology and Indigenous entrepreneurs. The funding will also help Accelerate Okanagan extend its programs into Kamloops, Nanaimo, and Prince George. The tech hub also wants to emphasize clean technology at the Metabridge 2018 retreat, which connects startups with Silicon Valley-based investors.
“Innovation and technology have the potential to drive our economy and create well-paying jobs for all Canadians,” said Stephen Fuhr, MP for Kelowna-Lake Country speaking on behalf of Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development. “By expanding their services across British Columbia, Accelerate Okanagan is helping more people – especially those who live in rural and Indigenous communities – to turn their entrepreneurial ideas into economic success stories.”
Photo via Unsplash