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New program boosts technology and agriculture in Mission

BC Agri-food Venture Acceleration Program launches in Mission
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Left to right: Ray Szabada

Technology and agri-food entrepreneurs in the Fraser Valley are getting a $844,000 boost in provincial funding for a new agriculture- and technology-focused program, delivered by the Sumas Regional Consortium for High Tech (SRCTec).

The new BC Agri-food Venture Acceleration Program based in Mission will provide entrepreneurs and startups in the Fraser Valley with training, coaching and the network to help them accelerate growth. This new program expands on BC Innovation Council's BC Venture Acceleration Program, which now delivers a successful technology accelerator program in 13 communities around the province.

The $844,000 in funding also allows SRCTec to bring in dedicated executives-in-residence who will provide coaching and mentorship to companies in the program. These are experienced entrepreneurs who have grown technology businesses from the ground up and who provide one-on-one business advice for clients.

"There are huge opportunities for business development and technological innovation by having the technology and agriculture sectors work together. Supporting a diverse range of entrepreneurs and startups through the BC Agri-food Venture Acceleration Program will create more opportunities and economic prosperity within both sectors," said Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens' Services Amrik Virk.

"British Columbia's food producers are business people and innovators, well known for their ingenuity in developing new products and processes. The support and connections provided through the BC Agri-food Venture Acceleration Program will help develop the next generation of agri-entrepreneurs in the Fraser Valley," said Minister of Agriculture Norm Letnick.

SRCTec is a non-profit society founded in 2006 with the intent to attract technology companies here and promote skilled technology training and education in the Fraser Valley. It is located on Welton Street in downtown Mission.