Accelerate Okanagan has launched a new access to capital training program, called Fast Track. The program has received a $60,000 commitment from investors, subject to a successful due diligence review. The Fast Track program is available to local Okanagan tech companies. Businesses from outside the region are eligible to participate remotely.
“One of the toughest parts of raising investment is finding a lead investor to complete the due diligence review,” says Andrew Greer, Program Manager at Accelerate Okanagan. “Fast Track overcomes that barrier. Not only will the program provide training to increase the chance of raising investment, it also creates an opportunity to partner with lead investors who can attract other follow-on investment. This is a great opportunity for companies looking for investment capital.”
In a national survey of 150 of Canada’s emerging tech companies, CEOs identified funding and capital raising as their top challenge. Accelerate Okanagan is working with the community to tackle this problem locally.
Targeting technology-based companies who are past the idea stage and have demonstrated traction, Fast Track focuses on pitch practice and due diligence preparation for companies who are ready or nearly ready for investment. This program is open to all types of technology companies – including, but not limited to, information and communications tech, clean and green tech, agricultural tech, life science tech, and advanced manufacturing.
Participants will each receive pitch training, due diligence training, and a professional review of legal, financial, and valuation components for their due diligence. Participating companies will have access to an Executive in Residence (EIR), who will coach each participant for the duration of the program.
There is a $150.00 fee for applicants who are selected into the program. There is a maximum of 10 spots available. Deadline for applications is January 16th, 2015. For more information on program dates and entry evaluation criteria, or to access a detailed application form, click here.
For further information on the Fast Track program, contact Accelerate Okanagan Program Manager Andrew Greer.
