The provincial government announced its updated #BCTECH Strategy on Tuesday, which includes a significant expansion in tech-related grad seats and co-op placements throughout the province.
The strategy supports growth in regional technology training and expertise, including Prince George.
The number of tech grads will increase by about 1,000 per year in rural and urban areas by 2022.
Post-secondary tech degree program tech degree program co-op placements will be doubled to more than 1,400 students annually.
"This is very exciting," said UNBC president, Daniel Weeks.
"For UNBC, it acknowledges technology being the driving force between innovation and the economy today and UNBC will always look for these opportunities for our students."
The Mitacs Student Research Program will also be expanded by two-thirds to 800 internships annually.
The B.C. Job Grant will continue to help tech-sector employers to train staff across all industries.
The government will also continue to work with the First Nations Technology Council with their skills-development programs including upcoming pilot projects which will increase participation of groups that are under-represented in technological sectors.
Tax related initiatives will help in creating further growth and job creation throughout B.C. by expanding eligibility for the Interactive Digital Media Tax Credit to include augmented reality and virtual reality products and the Small Business Venture Capital Budget has been increased by $3.5 million per year.
An Innovative Ideas Fund will be launched to encourage the government purchase of innovative technology products.
