What follows are a serious of links to business forums, funding, and networking. Browse these sites for your benefit:

Forums and Networking
New Ventures Competition
The BCIC-New Ventures competition was founded in 2000 under the direction of Wal van Lierop as a means of recognizing and encouraging entrepreneurship in B.C.’s technology sector. The first board included representation from both public and private organizations, and many of the founding organizations and key individuals from the original group have provided continuous support to the competition. [ http://www.newventuresbc.com/ ]

Turn your idea into a profitable company by entering the BCIC-New Ventures BC competition.

Vancouver Angel Technology Network (VANTEC)

Objective: To introduce early stage investors and mentors to promising technology (i.e. all advanced technology fields) ventures in British Columbia.
Angels: Vantec Angels are accomplished Vancouver area technology entrepreneurs who wish to make early stage investments in, and sometimes provide mentoring or advice to, new companies. [ http://vantec.ca/ ]

Vancouver Angel Forum
The BC Angel Forum has, since 1997, been introducing emerging companies to private equity investors. Tech and non-tech pre-screened companies seeking equity financing of $100,000 to $1 million, deliver “live” presentations to pre-screened private & corporate investors. Companies showcase their products & services during networking breaks and closing wine reception. [ http://www.angelforum.org/ ]

The Vancouver Enterprise Forum is a non-profit organization dedicated to the development of British Columbia’s technology enterprises through its regular monthly presentations and networking opportunities. [ http://www.vef.org/ ]

Special Loans, Grants, and Government Funding
Depending upon what kind of business you are in, there are various sources, funds, and programs available to you. Check the links below to see if you qualify:

• Business Development Bank of Canada (or for financing)
• Ministry of Competition, Science and Enterprise
• Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) Sponsored Loan Programs
• Overview of Government Financing(PDF File, 31 pages, 128kb)
• VanCity Credit Unionhas a “Self Reliance Loan Program” based on character and business plan. Up to $35,000 can be obtained with growth money up to $50,000. Visit a local branch for details.
• Canada Trustalso has a small business start-up program. Visit your local branch.
• There are other creative financing groups and companies that may be able to help which you can usually find through a refined Google search. The money is out there, so don’t give up.
• In the United States seeS. Small Business Administration