Technology PEI has announced the launch of four new programs designed to assist Island businesses and entrepreneurs adopt information technologies and address many of the key challenges in today's rapidly changing economy.
The "IT Planning Program" allows non-IT companies to acquire technical assessment of information technologies that may benefit their company.
The "IT Implementation Program" builds on the IT Planning Program and assists non-IT companies to implement e-commerce/e-business solutions new to the enterprise.
The "IT Professional Development Program" assists IT businesses to provide professional development for employees through advanced training courses.
The "IT Ideas Assessment Program" assists IT companies and entrepreneurs with early stage expert appraisal to move their innovative IT related ideas from concept to market.
"The idea behind these programs is to encourage more companies to adopt the appropriate information technologies and develop their e-business capabilities," said the Honourable Mike Currie, Minister of Development and Technology. "This, in turn, will help these enterprises increase their productivity, profitability and competitiveness in non-domestic markets."
The new programs were developed by Technology PEI after consultation with the local IT industry. According to the President of PEI's Information Technologies Association (ITAP), Mike Ives, the introduction of these programs is a positive step for PEI's ever advancing IT sector.
"In addition to creating an environment that supports innovation and development for members of PEI's IT community, these programs will also allow local businesses in the traditional sectors of the economy to make effective use of information technology in their businesses, and ITAP is pleased to see the announcement of programs relevant to both the buyers and sellers of information technology," said Ives.
Under the new program, eligible export-oriented, small and medium-sized companies will receive varying levels of assistance, based on a percentage of costs incurred.
Application forms are available at Technology PEI and PEI Business Development Inc. offices at 94 Euston Street, Charlottetown and at regional Access PEI sites across the province.
In keeping with the Provinces e-government initiative, application forms may also be completed and submitted on-line at www.techpei.com.
Technology PEI Inc. is a Provincial Crown Corporation established to advance the growth and development in Prince Edward Island's technology sector. Technology PEI plays a leadership role in the development, use and adoption of information technology for business and community in Prince Edward Island.