Accelerate Okanagan — Startup Basics
Last Update: July 22, 2025
BC, Canada
Tools to develop an idea for a BC startup
Accelerate Okanagan — Startup Basics at a glance
Eligible Funding
- No Condition
Timeline
- Continuous Intakes
Financing Type
Other Support
Expert Advice
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Grant Providers
- Accelerate Okanagan
Program status
Open
Overview of the Accelerate Okanagan — Startup Basics program
Get the mentorship, coaching, classroom training and collaboration opportunities you need to take your business idea to the next stage.
Eligible projects & activities
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 35,000
Launching a portable solar-powered charger for electronic devices
$ 40,000
Developing a mobile app for mental health resource accessibility
$ 25,000
Introducing a new line of gluten-free bakery products
$ 30,000
Establishing a cooperative organic urban farm
$ 40,000
Creating an innovative online learning platform for high school students
$ 30,000
Developing a new line of eco-friendly household cleaning products
Eligibility criteria of the Accelerate Okanagan — Startup Basics program
Who is eligible?
There are specific criteria for companies to be eligible for this grant. Eligible types of companies include:
- Tech startups focusing on innovation
- Manufacturing companies with a sustainability angle
- Green energy enterprises
Who is not eligible
There are specific types of companies that are not eligible for this grant.
- Non-profit organizations
- Government agencies
- Individuals
Eligible expenses
This context outlines a series of entrepreneurial activities focused on providing startup education and market validation for new businesses. These initiatives are designed to equip entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and insights to navigate and succeed in the business landscape.
- Conducting startup basics sessions in various locations including Kelowna, Penticton, Vernon, and Salmon Arm.
- Offering market validation training to help entrepreneurs test and refine their business ideas.
- Organizing behind-the-scenes tours and educational sessions in the Route 97 region to enhance business understanding and engagement.
Eligible geographic areas
This grant is focused on supporting startups in specific regions along the Route 97 corridor in British Columbia, Canada. The eligible geographical areas are aligned with the sessions and events that have been organized in these locations.
- Kelowna, British Columbia
- Penticton, British Columbia
- Vernon, British Columbia
- Salmon Arm, British Columbia
Eligibility criteria of the Accelerate Okanagan — Startup Basics program
The evaluation and selection criteria for this grant include:
- Alignment with the grant objectives
- Demonstration of innovation and creativity
- Feasibility and impact of the proposed project
- Credibility and capacity of the applicant
- Clear and realistic budget and timeline
How to apply to the Accelerate Okanagan — Startup Basics program
1
Identify possible grants (research)
- Search for relevant available grants in your business sector or project
- Examine the eligibility criteria for each grant
- Note deadlines and specific requirements
2
Prepare the necessary documents (preparation)
- Gather recent financial documents
- Draft a summary or description of the project or business
- Prepare references or letters of recommendation if required
3
Write a compelling proposal (writing)
- Follow the specific grant guidelines in your writing
- Highlight the objectives and benefits of the project
- Have the proposal validated by a third party if possible
4
Submit the application (submission)
- Fill out the application form online or on paper
- Attach all required documents and appendices
- Verify that all information is accurate and complete
- Send the application to the funding organization before the deadline
5
Follow up and respond to communications (follow-up)
- Confirm receipt of the application with the organization
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
- Be prepared to provide presentations or demos if necessary
6
Receive and review the response (result)
- Carefully read the organization’s response
- If the grant is awarded, follow the next steps indicated
- If declined, ask for explanations or feedback
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