A Prince George cleantech startup has secured a six-figure investment after winning top prize at the first Northern Angel Summit, a new showcase designed to link northern entrepreneurs with investors.

Open Waters Solar, founded in Prince George, was awarded $100,000 in equity investment along with the “people’s choice” award at the summit, which took place Sept. 25. The company pitched technology that encapsulates solar panels for use in marine and offshore applications, a concept aimed at combining clean-energy generation with durability in harsh environments.

Organizers said the event marked the first regional angel investment competition of its kind in Northern B.C., drawing entrepreneurs from across the North to pitch to a panel of investors and community leaders.

Other finalists included startups from Fort St. John and Prince George working in agriculture technology, software for industrial tracking, and engineering solutions. While only one company received the top investment, participants gained exposure to potential backers and networks that could support future growth.

The summit reflects an increasing appetite for investment in northern innovation, particularly in areas such as clean technology, natural resource efficiency, and digital solutions. Organizers said the format is meant to build bridges between early-stage businesses and angel investors who traditionally concentrate in larger urban centres.

By spotlighting ventures outside of Vancouver and southern B.C., the competition also aims to address the funding gap often faced by northern entrepreneurs.

Why it matters: The victory for Open Waters Solar highlights growing opportunities for startup financing in Northern B.C., and signals that investors are beginning to look more closely at clean-tech innovation emerging from smaller communities.