W Venture, a program committed to advancing entrepreneurial women launches in BC. Accelerate Okanagan, University of Victoria and VIATEC have joined forces alongside the Digital Technology Supercluster to advance innovative entrepreneurial women in British Columbia.
W Venture is a three-month pilot program for women in Victoria and the Okanagan who are ready to accelerate their business. Participants will gain the necessary skills to confidently address their unique business challenges, giving these women-led companies the greatest chance of success. This is done through personalized, hands-on support from curated mentors and subject-matter experts while connecting with a community of peers from across the province.
“We set out to co-create something that was truly collaborative and supported the unique needs of female entrepreneurs,” says Program Manager Shelley Voyer. “Women from across the province told us they wanted a program that is actionable and accountable while focusing on her unique journey. W Venture delivers on this promise. I hope any woman who is bold enough to build her own tech-enabled company applies.”
Leveraging the seasoned expertise of Accelerate Okanagan, University of Victoria, VIATEC, and their partners, training is set to create a meaningful impact on the community of entrepreneurial women. In addition, Waterloo’s Communitech and Kelowna’s PurposeFive have also lent their expertise in the designing of the program’s curriculum. Through this diverse collaboration, W Venture aims to provide a focused and engaging experience for women in the entrepreneurial community.
“The Digital Technology Supercluster is committed to inspiring community-wide growth and innovation, and it is paramount that the systematic challenges that women face are met with practical strategies and exceptional support,” says Sue Paish, CEO, Digital Technology Supercluster. “W Venture is one of several projects in our Capacity Building Program that seeks to close the gap and help women entrepreneurs succeed and our communities to thrive. Women-led businesses are a vital force for a vibrant economy.”
Only 10% of Victoria’s tech companies have a female founder, and less than 39% of the tech workforce in the Okanagan is female. While the rapidly expanding technology sector is creating new opportunities in an ever-changing landscape of industries, women continue to remain underrepresented.
The program will be delivered remotely due to COVID-19. This allows women entrepreneurs from across British Columbia to access the program.
Applications are open now until July 31st, with the program kicking off in early September.
For more information about W Venture and to apply, visit our website.
For more information, connect with Accelerate Okanagan’s Programs Manager, Jenna Stasuk.
