Officials with Technology Hub and Pioneers 21, in partnership with Microsoft, announced the launch the second edition of The Bridge Accelerator – Binational Supplier Development Program.
“We are proud to announce the second edition of Bridge Accelerator,” said Ricardo Mora of The Bridge Organizing Committee. “We appreciate the support of Microsoft, Transtelco, Tecma Group, Chihuahua’s Economic Development Agency through its Regional Innovation and Economic Development Center, City of El Paso, Desarrollo Económico de Ciudad Juárez A.C. and the business community. In May 2019, this program attracted $250,000 in venture capital opportunities and created 33 new jobs in the borderplex region. We encourage business to get involved to allow for more growth.”
Organizers added that the pilot of the Bridge Accelerator resulted in 52 purchase orders totaling approximately $1,500,000 and 32 new purchase orders.
Local businesses who have incorporated work on both sides of the United States and Mexico border for at least two years, have a relationship with large manufacturing companies and maquiladoras and are able to attend program sessions on either side of the border are eligible to apply.
According to organizers, Bridge Accelerator 2020 is a 12-week training program designed for existing companies from El Paso and Ciudad Juárez looking to grow and innovate their business practices. The 12-week training program includes a business model canvas applied to manufacturing suppliers, workshops, working groups, panels and networking events.
“After completion of program, businesses will leave with the understanding of unique requirements of the manufacturing industry and binational business culture, identify the relationship between innovation and the supply chain, identify models and intellectual property connection, market strategies and funding,” officials shared via an emailed news release.
Businesses in the Paso del Norte region which service the manufacturing industry on the Mexico-U.S. border are encouraged to apply no later than Wednesday, January 22, 2020.