Kelowna, British Columbia — More entrepreneurs in emerging technology-focused businesses will be able to grow and develop their enterprises, thanks to a Government of Canada investment designed to strengthen B.C.’s technology sector through leading-edge business programs in the Okanagan Valley.

Federal funding of $62,500 was announced today by Ron Cannan, Member of Parliament for Kelowna- Lake Country on behalf of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada,

Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of Western Economic Diversification Canada.

“The Government of Canada is strengthening Canada’s science and technology sector by promoting entrepreneurship, skills development and support networks,” said MP Ron Cannan. “Investments such as this enhance our workforce and productivity, and help to create a competitive advantage for Canadian businesses.”

Today’s investment supports the Kelowna Region component of a program; known as Linx, that has been specifically created to address the needs of technology entrepreneurs and researchers in B.C. Delivered by the Okanagan Science and Technology Council (OSTEC), the program’s four modules are focused on mentoring, networking, human resourcing, and financing.

Canadian technology networks and associated councils are a key reason behind BC’s ability to take a leadership role in the technology industry. Today’s funding is supporting the Okanagan Science and Technology Council. The Council is a member of The British Columbia Regional Science and Technology Network, which aims to promote the application of science and technology to help develop innovative businesses in regional B.C

Western Economic Diversification Canada is a department of the Government of Canada that works in partnership with the provinces, industry associations and communities to develop and diversify the western economy, as well as to represent the interests of the West in national decision-making.