Ignite Fredericton, the community economic development agency, is inviting Fredericton-based companies aiming to enter new markets to apply to the Export Igniter acceleration program.

Since the successful pilot program concluded in March 2017, graduate Export Igniter companies created in nine new jobs related to their export growth. Participants in the first cohort included SimpTek Technologies, Red Rover Breweries, Marr’s Sweet Syrup, Mayday Printing, Unforgotten Metal Art and Ginger Design. In a survey following the program, all participating companies gave top marks to the program and said they left with a fully developed export plan that was ready to be executed in-market.

Export Igniter is the first export accelerator of its kind in Atlantic Canada. It’s designed to help export ready companies develop a strategy to ensure they succeed in seizing opportunities and navigating the complex landscape of international business. Over 12 weeks, participants go through workshops led by subject matter experts such as Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, Opportunities NB, Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service, Export Development Corp., customs and logistics consultants, and others. Each company is paired with a mentor, a successful local exporter who provides their insights and advice.

“To create a global impact you need to get out of your backyard,” said Keelen Gagnon, Chief Operating Officer of SimpTek Technologies and member of the first cohort. “The Export Igniter program and mentorship that came with it was invaluable in helping us grow outside our region.”

Companies are also paired with a team of highly motivated business students from the University of New Brunswick who help with research and lead development.

Hillary Baird was a student in the first cohort and was paired with Ginger Design who hired her after graduating, “It’s a very different way of learning,” she remarked on the Export Igniter program, “you can put yourself in the shoes of an actual consultant; you have that real-life work experience for a semester, which is something not all students get.”

Ignite Fredericton is now accepting applications for its second cohort, which will begin January. The intent is to build on the success of the first cohort incorporating time for companies and mentors to interact informally with each other.

Interested companies can learn more, and apply to participate by visiting Ignite Fredericton’s website. Additionally, information sessions will be held at Planet Hatch throughout the fall for interested entrepreneurs.

Disclosure: Ignite Fredericton is a client of Entrevestor.