Cleantech and Agtech Startups from BC Shine in the 2024 New Ventures BC Competition

This week marked a significant milestone for the tech startup community in British Columbia, as nine innovative companies were awarded a collective $250,000 in prize money during the 24th annual New Ventures BC Competition. This prestigious event, presented by Innovate BC, is designed to showcase and support tech startups based in BC, providing them with invaluable resources and opportunities for growth.

The New Ventures BC Competition offers participating startups access to a comprehensive six-month program that includes in-person events, mentorship from industry experts, workshops aimed at enhancing entrepreneurial skills, and a supportive community of like-minded peers. These resources are instrumental in helping startups refine their business models, develop their pitches, and ultimately vie for the title of BC’s top tech startup.

In the competition's final round, ten finalist companies presented their groundbreaking ideas to a distinguished panel of entrepreneurs and investors, highlighting the innovative spirit thriving within the province. This year's competition showcased a strong emphasis on cleantech and AgTech sectors, with three cleantech startups and two AgTech companies standing out among the winners.

Vancouver-based cleantech startup Timezyx was the standout winner, securing first place and a cash prize of $110,000. Founded by CEO Kamyab Zandi and CFO/COO Adele Khavari, Timezyx utilizes cutting-edge digital twin technology to aid cities and infrastructure managers in adapting to the impacts of climate change, including natural disasters like floods and earthquakes. The company's approach allows for better planning and resilience in urban environments, making it a crucial player in the fight against climate-related challenges. Zandi expressed enthusiasm about the prize winnings, stating they would be dedicated to further enhancing the startup’s digital twin technology, which is essential for effective urban planning and disaster response.

Second place in the competition was awarded to SkyAcres, an AgTech startup based in Surrey, BC. SkyAcres has developed an innovative indoor farming software and marketplace aimed at connecting fruit and vegetable growers with commercial buyers. The platform is designed to empower users with underutilized residential and commercial spaces, allowing them to grow and sell fresh produce efficiently. Under the leadership of strategy officer Zaffia Laplante, who has been recognized as one of Canada’s Top 30 Under 30 Sustainable Leaders, SkyAcres has established itself as a frontrunner in sustainable agriculture. Earlier this year, the startup was selected as one of three Canadian companies for Google’s Women Founders accelerator program, underscoring its commitment to empowering women in technology and innovation. SkyAcres walked away from the New Ventures BC competition with a $60,000 prize, which will undoubtedly aid in expanding their operations and technology.

The third-place winner, skiKrumb, is a promising startup located in BC’s Okanagan region. skiKrumb is developing a cutting-edge radio GPS tracker specifically designed for ski resorts, enabling skiers to receive real-time location data on their connected mobile devices. This innovative technology aims to enhance safety and navigation for winter sports enthusiasts, addressing the growing need for reliable tracking solutions in challenging outdoor environments. In addition to securing third place and a $35,000 prize, skiKrumb also won the $10,000 Innovate BC Regional Startup Prize, bringing its total winnings to $45,000. This financial boost will support skiKrumb in further developing its technology and expanding its market reach.

The New Ventures BC Competition has a rich history of supporting entrepreneurial ventures, having assisted over 4,000 companies in the province since its inception. By providing a platform for emerging startups to showcase their innovations and receive mentorship, the competition plays a vital role in fostering a vibrant tech ecosystem in British Columbia. The success of this year’s competition not only highlights the remarkable achievements of these startups but also underscores the importance of innovation in addressing pressing challenges in cleantech and agriculture.

As BC continues to nurture its tech landscape, the collaboration between startups, investors, and support organizations like Innovate BC will be crucial in driving sustainable growth and economic development in the province. The 24th annual New Ventures BC Competition serves as a testament to the creativity and resilience of the tech community in British Columbia, paving the way for future innovations that will contribute to a sustainable and prosperous future.