In my native country of Israel the Hi-Tech industry occupies a central place in society. Technology startups are so commonplace that some nicknamed Israel “Startup Nation”. It’s true, the Jewish mother would still love to tell her friends that her son (or daughter) is a doctor, but being in the Hi-Tech industry is also pretty high on her list.
As a Canadian and a Vancouverite, it’s great to see that the technology startup culture is alive and kicking here, too. Examples are not hard to find. Vancouver based HootSuite is an innovator in the social media space since 2008. Vancouver based Recon Instruments is making breakthroughs in the heads-up display technology for sports goggles and glasses. Vancouver based Medeo is revolutionizing the patient care experience in British Columbia. Vancouver based BuildDirect is becoming a leader in North American online sales of renovation and construction materials.
At the same time, the road to entrepreneurial ventures in Canada does include some challenges. According to a Canadian Business article titled “A tech Titan made in Canada” (Winter2012/2013, Vol. 85, Issue 21/22), some of these challenges include companies selling early to U.S. giants, the shortage of experienced executives and challenges in securing growth capital. Some of these challenges are being mitigated by the coming of age of “remote business” technologies that make location and proximity less important than before. Another challenge facing the industry is the general shortage of skilled employees. According the a Backbone Magazine article titled “Help (really) wanted.” (Jun/Jul2013, p16-19), the technology and telecommunications industry as a whole is currently facing very low unemployment rates, such that companies are struggling to find the talent they need.
What I find exciting about the Hi-Tech industry is the speed in which things evolve. Things we once thought impossible are becoming reality every day. The possibilities seem endless and the opportunities to learn are ever present. What else can I say, but: “Go, Canada!”