A new contest to find the next generation of innovative tech companies in Birmingham and Ontario has been launched.
A partnership between and business incubator DMZ, based at Ryerson University in Toronto, is behind the The Next Big Idea Contest.
The competition enables winning tech entrepreneurs to spend a fortnight abroad in the sister incubation centre where they can meet with expert advisers and discover ways to expand their businesses on a global scale.
READ MORE: {}
The contest, which is being sponsored by NatWest and Birmingham law firm Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co, follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Ryerson University and Innovation Birmingham earlier this year, providing global opportunities to tech start-ups.
President of Ryerson University Sheldon Levy said: "The DMZ offers start-ups tools and an environment for success, including an unparalleled network to grow both in Canada and abroad.
"We are very excited to launch this contest with Innovation Birmingham, giving young innovators an opportunity to make valuable connections worldwide and to expand their business on a global scale."
Applicants from Ontario and the Birmingham area will be assessed on innovative use of technology, market validation and potential for rapid growth and international expansion.
Chief executive of Innovation Birmingham David Hardman said: "When visiting Toronto's DMZ, it was evident just how similar the ethos, community and outputs were to the Innovation Birmingham Campus.
Most Read
"The Next Big Idea Contest will present invaluable opportunities for early stage tech businesses with high growth potential.
"With the help and guidance of the teams of advisers and the peer networks in Toronto and Birmingham, the winning entrepreneurs will be able to expand on a global scale.
"The launch of this contest is the first step in what we believe will be a very productive collaboration, benefiting early stage tech businesses."
Birmingham is said to be home to more than 34,000 companies, including almost 700 international firms that contribute to it being the fastest growing city in the 海角视频 whereas Ontario is considered to be the engine of Canada's IT industry.
It has the second largest IT industry in North America after California, with 19,000 companies and 250,000 IT workers.
The DMZ is a hub of innovation and collaboration that connects start-ups with customers, advisers, influencers and each other, as part of a community which aims to support and foster disruptive technologies.