Earlier this summer we noted how Accelerate Okanagan was performing an analysis of the region’s technology sector alongside KPMG, following up on an Economic Impact Study for the Okanagan Tech Sector from 2017. Several regional organizations, including the City of Vernon, the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission, Tourism Kelowna, Okanagan College, UBC Okanagan, and the […]
Accelerate Okanagan
‘Acceleration Stack’ Prepares to Supercharge Entrepreneurship and Innovation in the Okanagan
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 […]
Vancouver Startup Signalytic Wins Top Prize at This Year’s Okanagan Angel Summit Finale
After eight weeks of pitches, due diligence, and training, a winner of the Okanagan Angel Summit competition has been crowned. More than 200 community members recently gathered at the Kelowna Innovation Centre for the Summit Finale, which is about celebrating and strengthening connections across Western Canada’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Nico Christofi, chief executive officer of Vancouver-based […]
BC’s Technology Ecosystems Network Builders Establish Alliance
BC’s leading technology ecosystems builders announced today that they are establishing an alliance of not-for-profit innovation hubs, known as BC’s Technology Ecosystems Network (BCTEN). The goal of this alliance is to leverage their diverse and dynamic regional ecosystems into one powerful network that supports transformative company building across British Columbia. Following years of collaboration on […]
Kelowna Showcases Tech Prowess as Innovation, Capital Flow Through Okanagan
The Okanagan region of BC is more than just grape, sun, and vineyard. It’s also silicon. Home to 700 technology companies employing 12,000 people, the Okanagan’s tech prowess is long understated. Recognizing this, let’s take a look at some of the region’s tech achievements over the past few months. INCA Renewtech Kelowna’s INCA Renewable Technologies, […]
Silicon Vineyard Wants to Solve BC Housing Problem with AI
The housing crisis in BC calls for modern, innovative solutions, according to Neil Moody, chief executive of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association of British Columbia. “There is tremendous opportunity in using technology to automate code compliance and process permits so homes can be constructed faster, and this is a step we can take quickly,” he […]
SMRT1 Technologies Wins $225,000 Investment at the 2023 OKGN Angel Summit Finale
Over 200 community members gathered at the Kelowna Innovation Centre for the fifth Annual OKGN Angel Summit Finale last night. After 10 fast-paced weeks of capital training, multiple pitches, investor meetings, and due diligence, Brad Pommen, President & CEO of SMRT1 Technologies, was awarded the $225,000 investment fund. Located in Nelson, B.C., SMRT1 specializes in […]
Accelerate Okanagan Names Six Finalists For OKGN Angel Summit Finale
Accelerate Okanagan’s OKGN Angel Summit has chosen its 2023 finalists. This year, 40 Okanagan angel investors are participating, creating a $225,000 investment fund. These angel investors have been busy meeting week-over-week since the beginning of January to listen to pitches, meet with the founders, perform due diligence and select the top 6 that will pitch live […]
OKGN Angel Summit Returns In 2023 with $250K Investment Prize
Accelerate Okanagan has opened applications for the fifth-annual OKGN Angel Summit. This uniquely elevated pitch program guides Okanagan-based investors and startups from across Western Canada through the capital-raising process as part of a Dragon’s Den-style selection process culminating in a public Grand Finale. On March 16th, 2023, the last company standing will be awarded an […]
Accelerate Okanagan Names Finalists For OKGN Angel Summit Finale
Accelerate Okanagan’s OKGN Angel Summit has chosen its 2022 finalists. This year, 32 investors are participating, creating a $150,000 investment fund. These angel investors have been busy meeting week-over-week since the beginning of January to listen to pitches, meet with the founders, perform due diligence and select the top 6 that will pitch live at […]