 Programs & Initiatives
BCIC partners with other organizations to create and deliver programs and support key industry initiatives that meet its mission of accelerating the commercialization of BC technologies. Through specific programs and initiatives that support startups and develop entrepreneurs, BCIC is facilitating job creation and the development of highly skilled talent, making it easier for entrepreneurs and startup companies to succeed in BC. To meet the needs of BC’s growing technology sector, BCIC works closely with partners located in all regions of the province to deliver programs and resources that address the needs of technology entrepreneurs in their local communities. As such, BCIC works closely with partner organizations to support the focus and strengths of their region, benefiting the sectors where our province has a competitive advantage. Programs & InitiativesBCIC Mentor ProgramThe BCIC Mentor Program is a province-wide initiative that improves the success of technology entrepreneurs by delivering expert guidance and timely support in developing their ventures. The focus is on the entrepreneurs rather than their ventures. Mentors work with entrepreneurs enrolled in BCIC's Venture Acceleration Program (VAP). The Mentor Program also serves as the training and accreditation service for Mentors in the Mentor Program and Executives in Residence (EiRs) in the Venture Acceleration Program. Modeled after the very successful MIT Venture Mentoring Service, the BCIC Mentor Program adopts best practices from ACETECH's Growth Strategy Program. The core principles of the program are:
The BCIC Mentor Program was launched in January 2011. As of 2012, more than 170 ventures have received mentoring from the program’s 115 active mentors. As of 2012, mentors have volunteered more than 5,500 mentor hours to early-stage ventures in Kelowna, Vancouver and Victoria. Through the BCIC Acceleration Network, plans are underway to roll out the VAP and the BCIC Mentor Program in mid-Vancouver Island, the Kootenays and Northern BC in early 2013. To see if these programs are located in your region, visit www.bcicacceleration.ca How to Apply? Apply to be a mentor: The Mentor Program is the primary source of volunteer mentors who are matched with early stage tech CEOs and also serves as the training and accreditationservice for Mentors and Executives in Residence (EiRs) delivering the Venture Acceleration Program. If you are interested in being a mentor, apply by clicking here. To be eligible to recieve mentoring, applicants must be enrolled in a Venture Acceleration Program. To find a VAP in your region, visit www.bcicacceleration.ca. Tagged as: BCIC Mentor Program Related Links |
