Rural Innovators in Tech Pitch Competitoin

The BIPOC and Rural Tech Founders event series (Nov. 2022- November 2024) aims to help foster more access into the innovation sector by accelerating startup companies by diverse founders to advance problem-solving, social impact, create jobs and fuel the economy.  
Our eighth event in the series will be the Rural Founders Pitch and Social series which will be hosted in Red Deer Alberta. Successful applicants will receive 2 free pitch coaching sessions and pitch to a crowd of supporters on October 17th at Garry W. Harris Canada Games Centre in Red Deer for a chance to win cash prizes with first place receiving $3,000, second place receiving $2,000, third place receiving $1,000 and fourth, fifth and sixth place: $500. The afternoon will also feature a resource fair, networking opportunities and refreshments. 
There will be a total of 5 Founders who would pitch for 3 minutes with 3 mins Q/A 

The Rural Founders Pitch and Social series exemplifies our commitment to enhancing rural economic development and empowering founders from underrepresented communities, aligning perfectly with our vision. While Edmonton and Calgary currently lead the charge in Alberta, it's essential to acknowledge the growing inequality between Canada's largest cities and its midsize and smaller cities, as indicated by "vitality" scores (McQuillan and Laszlo, 2021). Rural communities, historically facing limited access to innovation services, must increasingly turn to innovation, entrepreneurship, and rural resiliency to shape and support their future, as emphasized in the Government of Alberta's "Economic Development in Rural Alberta Plan" (2022). Despite facing challenges such as economic decline, population loss, and limited infrastructure (particularly internet access), rural communities contribute significantly to Canada's economy. They account for over 25% of the national GDP, while also providing essential resources like food, water, and energy to urban areas, and supporting key industries like manufacturing, transportation, and tourism (Rural Economic Development, 2023). The importance of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in these regions cannot be understated.
Our event series aims to bridge the gap between rural communities and the tech industry, leveraging the wealth of talent present in these regions to drive economic growth and cultivate a thriving start-up ecosystem. By offering a platform for rural founders to showcase their ideas, connect with resources, and access mentorship opportunities, we actively contribute to the development of a vibrant and inclusive entrepreneurial landscape in Alberta. The initiative not only strengthens the rural economy but also fosters a more equitable and diverse representation within the tech and innovation sectors.
Furthermore, the article "Rural Futures, Tech Realities" highlights the significance of this endeavor by shedding light on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by rural communities. By addressing the challenges head-on and tapping into the immense potential of these regions, we can work together to create a more prosperous and sustainable future for all.

Want to Apply? https://innovatecalgary.com/rural-founders-in-tech-pitch-competition-2024/

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