Rogers Communications has announced that it is committing approximately $4 million to Wavefront, Canada's Centre of Excellence for Commercialization and Research, to accelerate the growth of machine-to-machine (M2M), the Internet of Things (IoT) and wireless businesses in Canada. As part of the program, Rogers will sponsor the development of new programs including the Wavefront National Accelerator Program and Commercialization Support Program, as well as hands-on mentorship to M2M businesses looking to commercialize their business and enter new markets.
The commitment from Rogers to Wavefront will be matched by up to 50 per cent by the Canadian Accelerator and Incubator Program (CAIP), a five-year program established by the Government of Canada to support growth and development of entrepreneurs and startups.These funds will go towards expanding and extending Wavefront programs and initiatives to help emerging start-ups commercialize their business, fueling the growth of the M2M/IoT sector. These will help to spur opening of new jobs in Canada and to boast the economy.
In addition to its commitment to Vancouver-based Wavefront, Rogers is investing over $450 million in British Columbia over the next three years to expand its wireless network in over 70 communities, and enhance existing LTE connections, said Rogers.
Gord Nelson, VP Sales, BC, Alberta & Prairies, Rogers
At Rogers, supporting homegrown technology businesses is in our DNA, and we see a distinct growth opportunity for Canadian businesses in the M2M, Internet of Things and wireless application space. Our commitment to Wavefront will give businesses in Vancouver and across the country access to programs and industry experts to help them drive growth in their business and allow them to better compete on a national and global scale.
James Maynard, Wavefront President and CEO
The success of our award-winning acceleration program would not be possible without the support of industry leaders like Rogers. Beyond the financial investment, the experience Rogers brings to the table will help businesses better compete with global counterparts, drive new job creation and invigorate the technology community across the country.
