Collaboration to bring tech accelerators to Calgary means jobs, diversification and investment

The following statement is attributable to Deborah Yedlin, President and CEO of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce:

Calgary, September 24, 2021 – “Yesterday’s announcement of funding for accelerators from several partners, including Alberta Innovates and the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund, is very exciting news for Calgary – and Alberta. The addition of globally recognized and successful accelerators, including Platform Calgary, 500 Global and Plug and Play to the technology and innovation ecosystem is critical to shaping our city’s economic future.

“As a city that has made progressive gains in the start-up space, additional funding for accelerators means we can scale-up those promising companies and attract and grow a future-focused workforce that supports long-term economic diversification.

“We are encouraged by the level of collaboration that was required among all levels of government, industry, and the applicants that made this initiative a reality. A total of 64 proposals were submitted through Alberta Innovates and although only four were selected, the high level of interest is indicative of Calgary’s future as a tech and innovation hub as well as its economic potential.

“At the Calgary Chamber, we will continue to advocate, on behalf of our business community, for initiatives that support the diversification and innovation necessary to propel Calgary’s economy forward in a direction that contributes to growth and long-term prosperity.”

About the Calgary Chamber

The Calgary Chamber is an independent non-profit, non-partisan business organization. For 130 years, the Chamber has worked to build a business community that nourishes, powers, and inspires the world.

For media inquiries, please contact Arianne Brady, Communications Manager, at media@calgarychamber.com or at 403-750-0414.