The Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA) announced Wednesday that it is launching a Canadian XR Startup Market Accelerator program to help prepare 10 Canadian virtual reality, augmented reality and voice-related startups for expansion into the U.S. market.
WTIA, a non-profit dedicated to building a strong, sustainable technology sector, is partnering with Global Affairs Canada, Trade and Invest British Columbia. The eight-week virtual program will include a mix of curriculum, introductions and mentorship to help participants grow their entrepreneurial skills and begin market validation in the U.S.
The participating startups are:
- AlignVR
- Avalon Holographics
- Cela Inc.
- Engage Creative Technologies
- Eyexpo
- Humanitas Solutions Inc.
- Luxsonic Technologies Inc.
- Virtro Technology
- weshowup
- WeavAir
“Extended reality is on the cusp of reimagining legacy industries like healthcare, construction and hospitality, and these ten companies represent some of our industry’s best and brightest ” Michael Schutzler, CEO of WTIA said in a news release.
The accelerator includes workshops on sales, fundraising and other stage appropriate topics, customized to the individual organizations, according to WTIA. The program also provides mentorship and coaching designed to help with localization efforts and U.S. go-to-market strategies.
“The greater Cascadia region has grown into a hub of XR market leaders with the likes of Microsoft, Facebook and Google in Seattle; plus, Electronic Arts (EA) and Finger Food Studios in Vancouver,” Brandon Lee, Consul General of Canada in Seattle, said in a statement. “This XR Startup Market Accelerator program provides a great opportunity to further develop the region as an industry leader, coupling cultural and economic links between Canada and the Pacific Northwest.”
WTIA has hosted multiple virtual accelerator programs over the past year during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Canadian XR Startup Market Accelerator runs through February.
