The Vancouver Economic Commission this week announced the return of Angels for Climate Solutions.
The local program, launched last year, aims to increase the flow of capital investment into B.C.-based, early-stage climate technology startups.
“Vancouver’s long-established environmental ethos and talent-packed tech and startup ecosystem makes our city a hub for world-leading climate tech innovation,” explains Eleena Marley, chief executive officer of Vancouver Economic Commission.
The cohort-based program was funded by TD Friends of the Environment Foundation and is delivered in partnership with Spring Activator, Volition, and Foresight Canada.
“This program harnesses the power of technology to create the climate solutions of tomorrow,” stated Mandip Kharod, Pacific Regional Manager for TD Friends of the Environment Foundation.
The curriculum is oriented round two intersecting streams. The first is geared towards angel investors looking to make early-stage investments into climate technologies, and the second designed for climate-focused startups looking to fundraise.
“Angels for Climate Solutions provides the innovation ecosystem’s support of technology-based climate action and services that safeguard, restore and otherwise future-proof the environment for future generations,” Marley added.
The education and training culminates in the angel cohort awarding one startup “an investment of at least $100,000.”
“Programs like this boost engagement within the angel investment community while encouraging impact investing in critical climate solutions,” affirms Jeanette Jackson, CEO at Foresight Cleantech Accelerator Centre.
Facilitating early-stage investment in climate solutions is “essential to progress the innovation required to meet necessary climate goals,” according to a statement from VEC.
“It is critical to support both new founders and angel investors to work together to bring forward new innovations to combat climate change,” believes Graham Day, Investment Director at Spring Activator.
Climate solutions include applications in transitioning the energy supply to renewable sources; moving toward zero-emissions transportation; reducing the impact of buildings and other infrastructure; and cultivating sustainable food and agriculture, forestry, and land use.
As the economic development agency of the City of Vancouver, VEC strengthens Vancouver’s economic future by building a prosperous and resilient local economy through supporting local companies, attracting targeted high-impact investment, and conducting industry research.
Applications for startups close on November 28. Investors may apply until December 16.
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