We’re now accepting applications for the 2nd annual BCIC-New Ventures Competition: Regional (BCIC-NVC: Regional), a boot camp for technology startups located outside Metro Vancouver. The cost to enter is $100 and provides participants with access to the competition’s series of seminars and networking events while competing to take home one of three prizes totaling $60,000.

Last year’s regional competition winners included a closed loop waste-recycling technology, a lightweight, shock-absorbing forearm crutch and an online memorial service program. Here’s an update on where they are now:

1st place: Reef Safe Fish: A closed loop waste-recycling technology that filters fish waste and then combines it with fertilizer to produce fish food onsite. Since the end of the competition in February 2011, the creators have hired an additional two staff and are preparing for growth. They were also a finalist of the 2011 VIATeC ‘Emerging Tech Company’ award.

2nd place: SideStix:  An ergonomic, shock-absorbing forearm crutch that significantly reduces joint compression and the secondary injuries that often arise from using crutches. Since the competition ended, SideStix has improved their technology by incorporating carbon fibre (lightweight and highly durable), secured shelf space in several retail medical equipment stores and hospitals in Greater Vancouver and in May, faced another panel of judges on CBC’s Dragons’ Den. The segment will air this upcoming season.

3rd place: MemoryLeaf: An online memorial service where users can create a lasting legacy for their loved ones through photos, videos and stories posted in an engaging and elegant virtual environment.  Since the competition, the company has moved into the new Kamloops Innovation Centre, a full service accelerator which provides office, meeting and laboratory spaces for new and expanding tech entrepreneurs.

The BCIC-NVC: Regional offers $60,000 in prizes, including a $30,000 First Prize, $20,000 Second Prize and $10,000 Third Prize.  The competition is open to any BC person, resident or business located outside of Metro Vancouver with a technology-focused idea that has not yet secured significant financing from external investors.

Registration is now open. Application deadline: October 19th, 2011, 11:59pm. Visit www.newventuresbc.com/regional-competition for all seminar dates and complete competition information, including rules, timelines and registration form.

2011 Competitor Warranty Life interviewed by Techvibes