The 2021 New Ventures Competition, presented by Innovate BC, is now accepting applications. Innovative tech startups from across British Columbia are encouraged to apply for the province’s largest and longest running technology competition. 

Since its launch in 2000, thousands of local tech companies have participated in the competition to earn non-dilutive cash prizes, connect with mentors, network with fellow founders, and increase their company’s profile. Each year, the competition continues to attract a growing number of startups, with a record 240 applications submitted last year, despite it moving entirely online due to COVID-19.

“Even though the 2020 competition brought a unique set of challenges, it was encouraging to BC’s top startups come together, virtually, to access the education, connections, and funding that this competition is known for,” says Angie Schick, Executive Director at New Ventures BC. “Over the next six months, this year's entrants will have an opportunity to showcase themselves in front of an audience of investors, customers, partners, and media. We're extremely excited to see their innovations."

The competition has produced several notable success stories, including 2017 finalist Certn, who recently raised $43M to hire more talent and support global expansion. This year’s companies will have the chance to compete for over $250,000 in cash and prizes, which includes $180,000 from the competition’s title sponsor, Innovate BC. 

The Crown Agency’s President and CEO, Raghwa Gopal, believes “this competition provides the Canadian tech community with a sneak peak at the future of BC’s tech sector, while providing the province’s top startups with the hands-on support they need to build great companies in the communities they’re from. Innovate BC is extremely proud to once again be the title sponsor of this competition.”

Applications close on April 12th at 10pm PST and can be submitted here. For more information about competition rules, eligibility requirements and application fees, click here.