A Canadian Technology Accelerator (CTA) can give your company a head start in a foreign market. CTAs are located in major tech hubs and support firms in a wide range of technology sectors. Each CTA focuses on helping businesses take advantage of what the local market has to offer. These services vary among CTAs, but generally include:

• Mentorship and advice from industry leaders in the foreign market
• Office space in technology centres shared with other entrepreneurs and innovators
• Access to potential investors
• Connections and networking in the technology business community

Started in 2009, the initiative is currently operating in six cities. It is aimed at small technology companies serving three main sectors:

• Information communication technology (ICT), robotics and devices
• Life sciences
• Cleantech

CTAs have helped Canadian businesses acquire investment, advice, partners and sales.