An Okotoks fintech company is receiving a welcomed boost to make a greater impact on the Alberta technology landscape.
BNKD, which supports small-medium businesses, has received an invitation to join Alberta Innovates Accelerator by 500 Global, a renowned multi-stage venture capital firm with $2.4 billion in assets under management.
The firm is dedicated to investing in founders building fast-growing technology companies.
The Town of Okotoks Economic Development has been instrumental in BNKD's journey to joining 500 Global, providing crucial tech introductions that have led to valuable connections.
At one of these introductions, BNKD co-founder Chelsea Besuijen met an individual who invited the company to Inventures, a tech conference in downtown Calgary. During Inventures, Besuijen and fellow co-founder Dr. Damon Umscheid met Shaheel Hooda, a 500 Global mentor.
Hooda was so impressed by BNKD that he extended an invitation to join Accelerator 500, even after the application deadline had passed and hundreds of others had applied.
Joining 500 Global is a significant step for BNKD, opening doors to new opportunities and accelerating the company’s growth.
“We are excited to tap into the expertise of the program's over 200 professionals in more than 30 countries who bring extensive experience as entrepreneurs, investors and operators from leading technology companies,” said Besuijen, who is also the president of the Okotoks & District Chamber of Commerce.
"We are honoured to join 500 Global's network and represent our community in the tech industry. Innovation can come from everywhere, and we want to see this grow in Okotoks," Besuijen added. "This aligns perfectly with our vision to support businesses with our solutions. We look forward to leveraging 500 Global's resources to drive our growth and innovation further."
This partnership marks a significant milestone for BNKD, positioning the company for accelerated growth.
The Alberta Innovates Accelerator by 500 program is a $35-million investment the province has made into startup tech companies that are ready to scale. The goal is to provide support at the start-up phase to advance tech businesses in the province and diversify the economy.
