Okanagan Technology Sector to Grow Thanks to Government of Canada Support

KELOWNA, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - July 24, 2015) - Western Economic Diversification Canada

Today, the Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification (WD), announced over $3.4 million in funding to the Kelowna Innovation Society (KIS) for their project that will build out, equip, and operate the publicly-funded space at the Okanagan Centre for Innovation (OCI).

Boasting over 24,000 square feet of space - that includes a business incubator, training and digital media labs, and presentation and meeting space - the OCI will provide innovators, entrepreneurs, and emerging high-growth companies with direct access to resources, facilities, funding and mentorship.

The Centre will bring the Okanagan innovation community together under one roof, providing entrepreneurs and start-ups with the support they need to build their companies and create new job opportunities. Moreover, the Centre will also further establish the Okanagan region as a leading technology centre, helping to increase trade, raise national and international awareness, and attract and retain new talent.

Quick Facts

• Kelowna is home to the third-largest technology industry in British Columbia, with the Okanagan technology industry contributing $1.02 billion to the local economy in 2013.

Quotes

"The Okanagan is a recognized as a hub for innovation and our Government's support for the Okanagan Centre for Innovation is positioning the region for further success. By helping companies bring their innovative ideas to market we are creating jobs and economic growth."

• The Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification

"The Okanagan Centre for Innovation will strengthen our region's position as an economic powerhouse in the West. With the support of our Government, it will create new businesses and jobs that will help generate prosperity for our communities now and in the years to come."

• The Honourable Ron Cannan, Member of Parliament for Kelowna-Lake Country

"The development of the Centre for Innovation will add tremendous value to the entire Okanagan technology community and further establish the region as the best place for entrepreneurs to start and grow innovative, creative and technology-focused companies. We are thrilled to be partnering with the Government of Canada on this exciting project."

• Jeff Keen, Vice-President and Director, Kelowna Innovation Society

Additional Links

The Okanagan Centre for Innovation

Harper Government Supports Innovation Technology in Kelowna

Subscribe to news releases and keep up-to-date on the latest from WD.

Follow us on Twitter at @WD_Canada.

The West Means Business.

IF THERE IS A DISCREPANCY BETWEEN ANY PRINTED VERSION AND THE ELECTRONIC VERSION OF THIS NEWS RELEASE, THE ELECTRONIC VERSION WILL PREVAIL.