Foresight announces cluster project to support B.C.'s cleantech sector

Our partners at Foresight Cleantech Accelerator Centre announced today a new project designed to add momentum and support to the growing cleantech sector in the Province of British Columbia. They are establishing a cleantech cluster strategy to showcase B.C.’s world-class cleantech economy to global industries and markets, through consolidating research, building stakeholder working groups, and developing a collaborative action plan.

“Foresight is delighted to work with Western Economic Diversification Canada and the BC government with the support of Vancity,” said Jeanette Jackson, CEO of Foresight. “One-third of all cleantech startups in Canada started in BC, putting the province in a strong leadership position to grow a profitable and sustainable clean economy. The potential impact of the cleantech sector is enormous. We have some exciting times ahead.”

The project will bring together key stakeholders groups including small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), associations, industry, investors and Federal and Provincial governments to put in motion a sustainable model to help advance British Columbia’s thriving cleantech sector.  Partners on this project include Western Economic Diversification Canada, the Provincial Government and Vancity.

“B.C. is a leader in Canada’s cleantech sector with over 270 companies working to solve real-world challenges while reducing environmental impacts,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Jobs, Trade and Technology. “Our government is pleased to be a part of this initiative that will help enhance B.C.’s competitiveness in the sector, bringing along with it economic advancement and the opportunity for a more sustainable future.”

The cluster project will include the creation of a cross-industry decision making board to drive the mandate, workshops and roundtable discussions to identify regional priorities and funding considerations.