At Accelerate Okanagan, we build our programs based on the current needs that we are seeing and hearing from the founders in our community.
That’s why we have designed three separate programs specific to capital education for founders and investors; Fundable; ThreeSixty; and the Okanagan Angel Summit. In addition to topics like reaching profitability, investing, and fundraising, these programs provide valuable opportunities for founders, investors, and supporters to come together in person to connect, share ideas, and support one another. These types of interactions can be pivotal for advancing entrepreneurs and our community.
There is an active network of resources, organizations, and individuals in the Okanagan that can be tapped into as you grow your business. We’ve also recently introduced two Investors-in-Residence (IiR) to our team of mentors to further enrich our Capital programs. Their experience, knowledge, and connections, will support founders who are working to develop and execute on their fundraising strategy.
All of our programs are delivered in-person from our downtown Kelowna office in the Kelowna Innovation Centre. There is an option to join virtually via Zoom if you are not able to attend sessions in-person or live outside of the Okanagan Valley. We highly encourage participants to attend at least part of the programs in-person to build meaningful connections and get the most out of their time on the program.
8 Week Capital Program
Fundable is a cohort-style program that guides a group of founders who want to learn about potential funding options, explore pathways to raising outside financing, and become an investable venture. The program culminates in a Demo Day with pitches to partners and investors. Participating founders will leave with a fundraising strategy and data room.
Who It’s For
BC-based startups exploring funding options or preparing to raise pre-seed capital
When It’s Happening
October 5 – November 23 (applications due September 17, 2023)
Customized 1:1 Engagement
ThreeSixty is a customizable wrap around support system where we work with you and your leadership team to grow your business and prepare you to raise capital. The wrap around system is a team-based approach from our Executives-in-Residence, Investors-in-Residence, and subject matter experts.
Who It’s For
BC-based established startups focused on scaling or preparing to raise Seed or Series A capital
When It’s Happening
Rolling intake. We are currently seeking participants to join the pilot program.
8 Week Pitch Program
The Okanagan Angel Summit is an 8-week pitch program that culminates in a one-day event where an investment of up to $250K is made in a startup. Over the 8 weeks, participating companies will pitch multiple times and new angel investors will learn the investment process through active participation.
Who It’s For
- Companies in Western Canada looking to raise pre-seed investment
- High net-worth individuals looking to learn about angel investing (participants must reach BC investor accreditation standards)
When It’s Happening
April – May 2024 (applications due March 23rd, 2024)
AO’s capital programs are made possible by financial support provided by NRC-IRAP. They are also enhanced by our network of partners like MNP, KPMG, and Lawson Lundell, that are committed to elevating entrepreneurs in our community by sharing their time, dollars, and expertise. We are grateful for their contributions and look forward to seeing the outcomes of these programs.
We’re looking for strategic partners, subject matter experts, and sponsors for our capital programs. If you’re interested in getting involved and supporting entrepreneurs, please reach out to our Community Manager, Leslie Louie to learn about potential opportunities.
