Digital Nova Scotia, a non-profit that fosters the growth of the province’s ICT sector, announced its new partnership with Ignite Labs, an organization in the south shore that aims to create new tech opportunities and businesses in rural towns. 

This partnership means the two non-profits will collaborate to find and create new opportunities for tech-driven and business-minded Nova Scotians, said the two groups in a statement.

”As Ignite Labs grows and engages with entrepreneurs and the community, it is important to have great relationships with organizations like Digital Nova Scotia,” said Doug Jones, the Founder and Executive Director at Ignite Labs.  

“Collaborating with Digital Nova Scotia and their team allows Ignite to bring valuable programming and speakers to this region of Nova Scotia and really connect with entrepreneurs from around the province.”

Ignite Labs, which opened in June, offers a Network Membership program open free to anyone looking to develop an idea for the tech sector. And on Oct. 17, the tech incubator will host a Young Women’s Ocean Tech Challenge, an innovation challenge for STEM-focused women in high-school or college. Teams will create a solution that solves a problem in the oceans industry, and the winning team will receive $2000 and additional mentorship to commercialize their idea.

“The newly launched Ignite Labs has a deep connection in their community and tremendous enthusiasm behind them, and together we will enhance support provided to companies in the area,” said Ulrike Bahr-Gedalia,  the President and CEO of DNS.

“A collaborative approach to supporting our sector is essential to continued growth, economic development and prosperity for all.”