Vancouver’s Launch Academy touts economic and cultural impact over three years

Vancouver’s tech incubator Launch Academy has released its 2015 report detailing its impact on the economic and community life of the city.

During its three years of existence, over 350 startups from 15 in-demand industries have passed through Launch Academy’s doors, with over 2,500 hours of mentorship supplied.

Those companies have collectively raised over $57 million in funding, and created more than 635 jobs in British Columbia.

“Launch Academy is a tech hub that has been built by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs. The leaders of this facility are providing our fellow entrepreneurs with resources, peer networks and opportunities that are timely and relevant. The ‘entrepreneurs first’ mentality is what has allowed us to become a leader and significant contributor to the BC economy.” says Launch Academy CEO Ray Walia.

Working with a staff of six, Launch Academy claims to be one of the most cost-efficient technology hubs in the country, generating $61 in GDP for the greater economy for each dollar of public money invested, with a cost-per-job investment of $1,228.

Launch Academy has organized eight conferences, including the Traction Conference in both Vancouver and San Francisco earlier this year.

Launch Academy now inhabits a 12,000 square foot office space in Gastown, a significant step-up from the 12 desks in a shared space it began with.

Their space also hosts HIGHLINE VC, Victory Square Ventures, Stanley Park Ventures, Lighthouse Labs, BDC Capital and Microsoft Bizspark, with plans to bring in a blockchain accelerator by year’s end.

“Every thriving startup ecosystem needs to have a physical place where entrepreneurs can connect with and learn from each other — Launch Academy is this place for Vancouver,” says Version One Ventures Founding Partner Boris Wertz. “Over the past 3 years, Launch Academy has built a stellar reputation as a founder hub that is continuously creating innovative programs and events that help entrepreneurs do a better job.”

Launch Academy has been nominated for a Small Business BC Award in the “Best Impact” category. Voters can add their voice to the process by visiting the Awards website.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Launch Academy is accepting applications for its part-time, four-week Spring 2016 Lean Entrepreneur Program, starting January 19th.