BlackBerry QNX and L-Spark have teamed up to create a startup accelerator targeting early stage companies in emerging technology fields such as Internet of Things, autonomous transport and medical devices.
With the support of the National Research Council, the six-month program will pair six companies with mentors.
BlackBerry QNX’s software is used in many of the tech fields the accelerator is targeting, and the program will give companies access to that expertise and product. Unlike many accelerators, the startups do not give up any equity in their company, according to Leo Lax, executive managing director at L-Spark.
“This will actually create a mechanism by which the global capabilities and reach of BlackBerry and the innovation and enthusiasm and passion of early-stage companies can come together,” Lax said.
Communications services firm Martello Technologies, cybersecurity company Bluink and automotive software developer Evolved Vehicles Environments will join four other companies from across Canada in the first cohort.