It’s going to be a busy fall for entrepreneurs in the Okanagan.
Last month, we reported on Accelerate Okanagan performing an overdue analysis of the region’s technology sector.
Understanding the tech sector’s contribution to the Okanagan’s economy will help amplify the expertise and growth opportunities, according to AO, which the organization says is critical in attracting talent and investment.
In 2017, the year of the last official economic impact study, the Okanagan region boasted nearly 700 tech businesses and a tech workforce north of 12,000 persons creating $1.7B in economic impact.
The 2024 report will be released this autumn—around the time when AO’s “Acceleration Stack” kicks into full gear.
The Acceleration Stack is comprised of a “series of programs that support startups going through key stages of venture development with mentorship and resources,” granting entrepreneurs access to growth opportunities, experts, and networking.
AO’s Stack, partially supported by Innovate BC and National Research Council Canada, is based around five core programs; Venture Validation, Market Ready, Fundable, Okanagan Angel Summit, and ThreeSixty.
Venture Validation is a three-month group mentorship program designed to teach rapid validation, iteration, and development to early stage entrepreneurs. The program is delivered in-person from Kelowna with the option to join weekly sessions virtually.
Market Ready, also three months, is designed to provide early-stage founders with the strategies, mentorship, and support needed while working toward effectively positioning product, connecting with early customers, and gaining commercial traction.
The 10-week Fundable program, meanwhile, targets entrepreneurs who want to learn potential funding options, explore pathways to raising outside financing, and become an investable venture.
The Okanagan Angel Summit presents an annual eight-week competition-style program for entrepreneurs and accredited investors that culminates in a grand prize of $200,000 for the winning startup. (Check out our coverage of this year’s affair.)
Last but not least, ThreeSixty provides a bespoke support system as entrepreneurs prepare to raise growth capital. Founders are paired with members of AO’s Executive-in-Residence and Investor-in-Residence teams, each with their own tailored supporting role.
Not sure which program is the optimal fit for you? A free information session in August promises a showcase of the full Acceleration Stack, outlining minimum requirements, ideal profiles, and key benefits for each program.
The session takes place on August 8, just ahead of applications, which open August 12.
Leave a Reply