Innovators urged to enter Dragons’ Den-like contest for pitch training and chance for up to $100K investment

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Local entrepreneurs have the opportunity to have their ideas seen, heard and funded by investors at a Dragens’ Den-like’ event. 

Shannon Stange, a northeast regional innovation liaison, spoke to Energeticcity.ca to discuss the Northern Angel Summit and its opportunities for local investors and new business start-ups. 

“This is a historic moment where we’re introducing it to our area and I believe that over the next couple of years, we’re going to see incredible ideas come to market and build great companies in the area,” said Stange.

The summit, brought by Northern Innovation Network, is a 10-week program that trains new innovators to pitch their ideas effectively, secure funding and grow their businesses. 

“The whole point is that our angels are local, meaning they’re people who are from our community who believe in our community and want to see our community flourish through innovation and the establishment of new ideas,” said Stange.

Although Stange describes the event as similar to other investment shows like Dragons’ Den, he said the goal is to foster innovative talent in the population and create a better economy for businesses and people to prosper in. 

“We’re trying to create the economy around investing in the northern ideas, with northern people and with northern money,” said Stange.

“Our goal is long-term; the goal is to create something that builds resilience and capacity in the area, keeps these ideas in the north and helps them come to maturity and then become multi-million dollar companies that solve global problems.” 

New recruits will have the chance to learn from experienced local investors about pitching their investment ideas and building partnerships.

Approximately 20 angel investors will contribute $5,500 each and work together to determine the most promising businesses, culminating in a six-finalist finale. 

The six finalists will do a final pitch in September to compete for the chance to get up to $100,000 in investment. 

Stange said it is harder for the northern regions to get capital funding due to its isolation and different industries. 

“[The south region is] dealing with importing and dealing with digital media but up here, we’re in heavy industry,” said Stange. 

“To get something off the ground is capital-intensive, it takes years of development and there’s permitting that we have to overcome in order to see something come to market.”

Entrepreneurs can apply to take part until May 14th. To register for the summit or find more information, click here.