Efforts to grow and attract the tech sector in Nelson have been underway with one project in particular gaining headway. The Nelson Innovation Centre (NIC) will be located in the CP Rail Station with Phase 1 hoped to be up and running this spring, depending on funding. Phase 2 could be open by mid-year.
The Kootenay Association for Science & Technology have taken over as project manager. Executive Director Cam Whitehead explains the purpose behind the so called tech incubator.
“This one will be, you know, we’re a public association running it and so it will be open, certainly. And to assist a broad array, inclusive programming, business supports, employment supports to make sure we’re connection people to jobs and jobs to people.”
The clientele are expected to be those interested in starting their own tech company, who want to work for a tech company, or existing companies that would benefit from technology renovations.
So far $259,000 in grant funding has been secured for the NIC with applications for other grants submitted. Whitehead has also asked Nelson City Council to contribute a $50,000 annual operating fee for staff and administration.
