Entrepreneurs Find Rich Resources in Metro Vancouver
Turning a one-of-a-kind idea into a profitable business can be a frightening, confusing and expensive venture. Fortunately for Metro Vancouver’s budding entrepreneurs, there are resources in place for assistance.
For those interested in entering Vancouver’s thriving technology industry, the Vancouver Enterprise Forum serves as just one supportive agency. The VEF was launched in the 1980s to help tech startups and has matured along with the industry.
“Our program has grown with them,” says Catherine Crucil, executive director of the VEF.
Today, the VEF hosts monthly networking and educational events to provide its members the necessary tools to succeed. And it recently launched a new program for the next generation of tech entrepreneurs.
The nonprofit agency also works closely with other programs specifically for entrepreneurs, including more sector-specific trade groups such as New Media BC, which serves the digital media industry, to programs such as Ace-Tech Symposium, a training and mentoring program for CEOs of technology companies. And for those entrepreneurs with a great idea but not a lot of money, there’s the Angel Forum.
The Angel Forum introduces startup companies to venture capital firms. The budding companies produce pitches for pre-screened venture capitalists such as GrowthWorks, one of Canada’s leading firms, for seed money up to $1 million.
Amiee Chan, CEO of Norsat International, which produces a variety of products and services for the satellite industry, says Metro Vancouver is an ideal location for companies in the tech field. Its location on the Pacific Ocean offers it access to the western United States and Pacific Rim countries, it has a wealth of electrical and mechanical engineering talent from nearby universities and the surplus of vendors make it easier to do business.
Moreover, the support from nonprofit and existing enterprises is exceptional, she says.
“Vancouver is a closely knit community. A lot of companies have made it big and want to give back. I find that unique in Vancouver,” Chan says.
