When one door closes, another opens.
That old saying rings especially true these days.
Across industries, chaos and disruption have become familiar. We’ve watched businesses face setbacks—from personal losses to global supply chain breakdowns. Recently, several international publishers I’ve worked with, and counted as friends, have shut down operations entirely. These closures, driven by strained logistics from China to the U.S., have impacted many of us, including me.
But disruption can also spark opportunity. One of my smaller ventures has taken off in direct response to these shifts. What was once seen as niche is now gaining traction across the city and beyond. With growing support for Canadian-made products, especially those rooted in community, “Made in Canada” has become more than a label—it’s a priority.
Still, growth brings its own challenges.
That’s where the Northern Angel Summit comes in.
This groundbreaking program represents a powerful convergence of innovation and investment, designed to strengthen the region’s economic future. At its core, the Summit addresses a critical need in Northern BC’s business ecosystem—connecting promising startups seeking early-stage capital with angel investors who can help bring their visions to life.
“In our 2023 survey of the Northern Innovation Ecosystem, Northern Ventures identified early access to capital as both crucial to success and scarce throughout the region,” says Mary Mytting, Executive Director. “The Northern Angel Summit is designed to bridge the gap between investors seeking untapped potential and companies looking for investment—unlocking capital within our region.”
The 10-week intensive program, culminating in a live pitch finale on September 25, 2025, in Prince George, offers much more than just funding opportunities. For entrepreneurs, it provides comprehensive training in investor relations, pitch development, and business growth strategies. The process begins with competitive quarter-final and semi-final rounds, ultimately narrowing the field to six finalists who will present their ventures to a public audience and a panel of investors. This year’s program aims to award $100,000 in funding to the most promising startup, a significant investment that could transform a local business.
“Northern BC doesn’t need to ask for a seat at the table—we’re building our own table,” says Josh Nilson, Founder of Maskwa Investments. “Supporting founders here means shaping the next wave of innovation.” Originally from Mud River just outside of Prince George, Nilson is the co-founder of East Side Games, a successful mobile gaming studio known for hit titles like Trailer Park Boys: Greasy Money and RuPaul’s Drag Race Superstar.
What makes the Northern Angel Summit particularly valuable is its dual focus on both founders and investors. Startups gain unprecedented access to investor perspectives, learning directly what captures attention and builds confidence in potential funders.
For investors, the program offers a structured introduction to the world of angel investing. Through training and mentorship from experienced investors, participants learn how to evaluate opportunities, assess risks, and build a diversified investment portfolio. It also presents access to a new network for seasoned investors. The Summit creates a unique environment where investors can discover high-potential local ventures while contributing to Northern BC’s economic development.
“Commercializing new technologies in Northern BC brings unique challenges with financing first-of-a-kind due to lack of awareness with local investors,” says Owen Miller, founder of Deadwood Innovations. “Programs like the Northern Angel Summit are vital in bridging this gap, connecting pre-commercial companies with creative risk-tolerant investors who recognize the region’s potential.”
At the heart of this initiative is Mary Mytting, the Executive Director of the Northern Innovation Network, whose diverse background brings invaluable perspective to the program. A Northern BC native with experience spanning entrepreneurship, nonprofit leadership, and international business development, Mytting has personally launched and sold two successful businesses while establishing a lasting charitable initiative in South Africa. Her two decades of experience in sales, marketing, and community development inform the Summit’s practical, purposeful approach.
“The Northern Angel Summit is positioned to be an annual initiative that supports northern entrepreneurs and invites accredited investors to the world of angel investing through a guided, hands-on process, where a capital fund is raised, deals are screened, and investment in a startup is made,” Says Mary.
Applications for 2025 remain open until May 23, offering both founders and investors the chance to participate in this transformative experience. Beyond the immediate benefits of funding and education, the Summit fosters lasting connections that continue to benefit participants long after the program concludes.
In a business landscape often dominated by major urban centres, this initiative proves that Northern BC has both the talent and the vision to build its own thriving innovation economy.
I plan to apply. Who’s with me?
Those interested in learning more can visit NorthernAngelSummit.ca or contact the organizers directly at [email protected].
