In the beginning
Our story began back in 2002, when the London High Tech Association, London Venture Group, IT London and the Life Sciences Council formed a non-profit member coalition called TechAlliance, giving it the mandate to foster growth in London’s technology industry in the areas of biotechnology, information technology and advanced manufacturing.
Starting as an informal networking opportunity for local technology entrepreneurs, TechAlliance soon expanded its programming and membership activities, while adding an education outreach component to engage the next generation of tech workers, leaders and innovators. An advisory services team was added to offer one-on-one consulting to tech startups and access to services and funding opportunities through partners.
Leading the way
Through the early years, we were involved in national, provincial and regional initiatives, worked with hundreds of entrepreneurs and new companies, and created innovative programs in response to the needs of the tech sector.
A significant milestone was reached in early 2011, when TechAlliance formally became one of 14 Regional Innovation Centres as part of the Ontario Network of Excellence. This designation also increased our geographic reach beyond London, making us the innovation hub for a wide area of Southwestern Ontario that includes Woodstock, Sarnia and Chatham.
Furthering our leadership role in the sector, TechAlliance was instrumental in the creation of the Southwestern Ontario Angel Network and the Regional Alliance, two bodies streamlining the process of growing successful businesses.
Preparing for the next decade
Today, TechAlliance offers year-round learning and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and employees and advisory services for new and emerging tech companies, while continuing to pursue new opportunities for our sector.
