Accelerate Okanagan is inviting technology companies in the Okanagan region, from Osoyoos to Salmon Arm, to participate. The survey takes 20 minutes to complete and can be completed any time until June 30. A final public report is expected to be available in fall 2024.
Sean O'Connor, CEO of 4AG Robotics, said it's more important than ever to come together with the goal of building a world-class tech ecosystem in the Okanagan.
“Research like this has made Accelerate Okanagan the backbone of the Okanagan tech ecosystem – a central hub helping startups in the region stay connected and access resources, and working to prove we can punch above our weight,” O'Connor said.
The last technology sector economic impact study was conducted in 2017. Since then, the Okanagan has experienced the effects of many local and global changes, including an increase in remote teams, an influx of expertise and talent, opportunities and changes brought about by tech company exits and acquisitions, and the impact of the pandemic.
“Benchmarking and understanding the performance of the sector is important to inform policymakers and allocate resources,” said Krista Mallory, manager of the Central Okanagan Economic Development Board. “We look forward to seeing the results and discovering new opportunities for Okanagan businesses.”
Accelerate Okanagan has engaged KPMG to conduct the study, and several partner organizations have joined in supporting the study, including the City of Vernon, Central Okanagan Economic Development Board, Tourism Kelowna, Okanagan College, UBC Okanagan and Kelowna International Airport.
To take the survey, visit the “Accelerate Okanagan's Economic Impact” webpage.
