We are now accepting applications for the kick-off of this Fall’s Venture Acceleration Program (VAP). This six-month program was designed to support committed entrepreneurs who are ready to take their business to market through mentorship and training.

Due to ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, this cohort will be facilitated virtually. However, we are structuring the program to continue to bring the mentorship, training and networking that has proven to be so valuable to VAP’s education process.

VAP is an initiative of Innovate BC and stands apart from other programs offered by Accelerate Okanagan because of its unique cohort model. Along with one-on-one mentorship, participating entrepreneurs will build life-long relationships with their peers as they work together through the startup process.

Program members will have access to one-on-one business coaching sessions with mentors, entrepreneurial resources and training, as well as discounted access for exclusive services and resources, like legal and accounting.

“The Venture Acceleration Program offers all of the elements that are needed for rapid acceleration,” says Alanna Haggard, Startup Program Lead. “To augment the skills training, we chose a cohort model so that participants experience collaboration, teamwork, and networking in a real-world setting, all while gaining a strong support system.”

“We’re looking for tech startups who are willing to learn, commit the time to their venture, have a clear vision of the problem they want to address, and need support finding product or market fit,” explains Haggard.

In order to be eligible for this program, companies must be tech-enabled, located in the Okanagan Valley, and dedicating at least 25 hours per week to working on their business. Applicants also need to have a clearly-defined problem and are past the idea phase.

Does the VAP program sound like a good fit for you? Apply before September 4th!