$1M investment Accelerates Okanagan
The Accelerate Okanagan Technology Association has received a big boost in the form of $1 million government investment through the B.C. Innovation Council (BCIC).
The funding, over a 30-month period, will provide new and early-stage technology companies throughout the Okanagan with continued access to the venture acceleration program, a key offering by partners of the BCIC Acceleration Network. The network is a province-wide alliance of regional partners collaborating to deliver a structured program to technology entrepreneurs.
“This funding will be used to deliver the VAP to high-growth technology companies across the Okanagan, accelerating the commercialization of technology and spurring the rapid growth of new ventures,” said Jeff Keen, Accelerate Okanagan CEO.
“For tech entrepreneurs, getting to a point of sustained profitability is extremely difficult. Our programs have been developed to support technology entrepreneurs through the early stages of business development, reduce their risk and guide them through the challenges of growing a sustainable business.”
Prospera named top employer
Prospera Credit Union has been recognized as one of B.C.’s Top Employers for 2013.
Now in its eighth year, the provincial competition is organized by the editors of Canada’s Top 100 Employers, and recognizes B.C. companies that have led their industries in attracting and retaining quality employees.
“Offering our 435 employees a great place to come to work every day where they have a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others and their community is a key part of how we do business,” said Bruce Howell, Prospera CEO. “To be recognized as a Top Employer for being true to our core values is a humbling experience for us.”
Employer selection is based on performance in several areas, including physical workplace, work and social atmosphere, vacation and time off, employee communications, training and skills development, and employer benefits.
Armstrong plant stays on budget
Armstrong’s cogeneration plant was among the recipients at Tolko Industries’ annual Awards for Excellence.
The Armstrong plant earned the award for Performance Closest to Budget. Tolko has a growing green energy profile with eight biomass energy facilities that contribute to the onsite production of wood products. Armstrong is one of two cogeneration assets that also sell power.
The plant is EcoLogo certified, the Canadian national standard for green energy. The power is sold to B.C. Hydro under an agreement that supports the province’s commitment to increase clean, green power. All the power sold is generated from renewable wood biomass, primarily bark from sawmill operations.
