With access to training and research at world-renowned post secondary institutions, it’s no wonder the Central Okanagan is the fastest growing region in Canada.

February 15, 2024

Building on the success of last year’s internationally recognized OKGo Campaign, The Regional District of Central Okanagan’s (RDCO) Economic Development Commission (EDC) has launched its 2024 campaign. Created in collaboration with Tourism Kelowna, Accelerate Okanagan, Okanagan College and UBC’s Okanagan campus, this year’s campaign features post secondary education and the clean tech sector as key drivers of opportunity and economic prosperity in the region.

Okanagan College and UBC Okanagan contribute not only to talent and workforce development but also support academic-industry research and community collaboration with centres for innovation like UBCO’s Cleantech Hub and OC’s Sustainable Building Technology.

“At the heart of UBC Okanagan’s identity is globally relevant research and education rooted in our local context,” says UBC Okanagan Principal, Dr. Lesley Cormack. “We’re proud to play a key role in helping industry and communities enhance and diversify the economic drivers of the region, with exciting research projects in areas like carbon recovery, hydrogen tech, renewables and more. Moreover, as partners with Okanagan College, we’re proud to be part of an exceptional local education sector that provides the region with outstanding graduates educated right here in the Okanagan.”

“Together with UBC Okanagan, Okanagan College helps build and sustain local opportunities for learning, training, education, and research,” says Okanagan College President, Dr. Neil Fassina. “Our collaboration fuels innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership locally and beyond, and this is vital to the region’s economic health, our social infrastructure and the ongoing growth and success of the communities we serve. We’re excited about the bright future for our students, and that through them and with the support of OC and UBC Okanagan, this translates into a bright future for the region.”

The clean tech sector is supported by post secondary institutions in the Okanagan as they actively prepare and cultivate future leaders in the sector. Together, researchers and industry are transforming the region with innovative clean tech solutions that are establishing a sustainable and vibrant future. The region contributes to Canada’s growing environmental and clean tech sector which was valued at over $73.1 billion in 2021.

Hexagon Purus, a global company focused on zero emissions mobility, is a local leader in clean tech. Hexagon Purus is expected to produce more than 1,000 battery systems annually for heavy-duty vehicle applications at their 60,000 sq. ft. micro-factory located in the Kelowna International Airport Business Park.

“The Okanagan brings the ability to attract talent, create local opportunity and have an unbeatable lifestyle and a career with purpose,” says Hexagon Purus Executive Vice President – and Kelowna local – Todd Sloan. “BC has always been progressive in the clean and green economy. In Kelowna, we have a great mix of opportunity and the Okanagan lifestyle.”

Additional regional clean tech companies highlighted in the campaign include Rainstick, manufacturers of North America’s first circular shower which saves up to 80% of the water and energy typically used, and Vitalis, manufacturers of an environmentally responsible CO2 R744 heating and cooling solution for industrial applications.

“Through regional partnerships and storytelling, the OKGo campaign tells the story of the Okanagan to fuel sustainable economic growth and to cultivate a vibrant regional workforce,” says Krista Mallory, Manager of the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission.

About the OKGo Campaign:

OKGo is a partnership between the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission, Tourism Kelowna and Accelerate Okanagan that tells the stories of innovators and entrepreneurs in key business sectors and positions the region for future economic prosperity.  To highlight the value proposition of the region to attract business events and meetings, talent, entrepreneurs and business investment, OKGo shares these stories at events, in-person meetings and through digital marketing initiatives.

• OKGo Profile – Clean Tech
• OKGo Profile – UBC Okanagan
• OKGo Profile – Okanagan College