Tech Resiliency Program

Are you B.C. tech company looking for support to navigate through the impacts of COVID-19?

Are you a tech company looking for some guidance to adjust operations and navigate the economic impacts of COVID-19? Our Tech Resiliency Program expands existing advisory services, such as the Venture Acceleration Program, and resources available to small and medium sized tech businesses.

It connects you to advisors, mentors, best practices, and tools dedicated to help you maintain and grow operations, build resiliency, and prepare for a successful recovery.

Supported by the Federal Government (Western Economic Diversification Canada) and Innovate BC, the Tech Resiliency Program is delivered across the Province by the BC Acceleration Network.

PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY

Be a B.C.-based tech business
Have less than 500 employees on payroll

Steps to Apply:

If you are a current (or past) program participant with KAST’s Venture Acceleration program, please reach out to us at info@kast.com

If you have not engaged with us in the past, please fill out this application and we will connect with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of technology companies qualify for this program?

We recognize that use of the term technology is wide and varied. For the Tech Resiliency Program, technology is defined as products and productized services, with engineering attributes in advanced communications technologies, digital media and web, electronics design and manufacturing, software development, mechanical and industrial technologies and other advanced engineering disciplines. We’re especially interested in supporting companies that are developing technologies aimed at target markets and target customers that are aligned with the Province of British Columbia’s key industry sectors. If you’re not sure whether your technology qualifies, please reach out to a partner in your region or contact us.

How can this program help my business?

The Tech Resiliency Program will provide tech sector companies with information, direction and resources to navigate and survive the COVID-19 crisis. If required, applicants may receive customized one-on-one advisory service to maintain and grow their business.

What can I expect after I apply?

Once you submit the intake form on our website, your application will be reviewed by one of our delivery partners. You can expect to hear from them within 3-5 business days.

How long will this program last?

The program is currently scheduled to run until February 15, 2021.

Who is delivering the program?

The program is delivered by a team of Executives in Residence (EIRs) and/or program advisors supported by a province-wide network of partners and entrepreneurs. Together they make up the BC Acceleration Network (BCAN), an alliance of regional partners and executive-level mentors.

What’s the role of EIRs?

EIRs provide structured management oversight and guidance to help companies navigate and survive the COVID-19 crisis. This is based on the specific domain knowledge or management expertise needed to optimize the entrepreneur’s success.

What kind of training do your EIRs have?

Our EIRs all have extensive experience in entrepreneurship and in the tech industry. In addition, they receive training through the program itself in the use of the Venture Growth Cycle to grow a technology company.

Is there a cost to participating in this program?

The program is a no cost/no obligation program. The primary services of the program are free, and anyone can sign up. However, if needed, engagements with digital service providers or consultants (as independent businesses) will have various costs depending on the scope of your requirements. If/when you need to hire someone, we can also offer advice to ensure you’re considering the right things in the right order. We can review your needs more specifically when you apply to the program.