Numbers

Number 12 / Volume 35 / December 15, 2021

Editorial:
Sebastian Leck

The debate around an RCMP innovation challenge shows why researchers need to understand the political implications of their work, writes Sebastian Leck, managing editor at Research Money.

How marine tech company Kraken Robotics became an East Coast success story

The growth of Kraken Robotics, based in St. John’s, has been possible only with the financial investment and support of many federal and provincial government agencies, says Bill Donovan, senior program manager at Kraken.

The Short Report - Dec. 15, 2021: UBC launches diabetes centre of excellence, Standing Committees struck for 44th Parliament, exploring pandemic impacts, and more

Canada’s first JDRF Centre of Excellence in Type 1 diabetes research, science and technology standing committee members announced, Ottawa invests in pandemic research and vaccine confidence projects, and more.

Vancouver airline plans to be the world's first commercial electric plane operator

Vancouver-based Harbour Air is developing a second battery-powered aircraft as part of its quest to offer the world’s first commercial electric passenger-plane service.

Opinion Leader: Much stronger public sector support needed for industry’s commercialization of intellectual property

More public sector support is needed to help Canadian companies generate and protect valuable intellectual property, because businesses are failing to exploit their IP and reap the economic benefits for Canadians, Daniel Katz, lead research analyst at Global Advantage Consulting Group, and Natalie Raffoul, managing partner of Brion Raffoul LLP, say in an op-ed.

Q&A: Former environment and climate change minister Catherine McKenna on COP26 and Canada’s climate plans

Catherine McKenna, former minister of environment and climate change and former minister of infrastructure and communities, spoke to Research Money about the outcomes of the COP26 climate summit, the federal emissions cap on the oil and gas industry, federal investment needed to ensure the country meets its emissions-reduction targets and her two “passions”: climate action and supporting women and girls.

Opinion Leader: Continued government support is critical to maintain Ontario’s global competitiveness in regenerative medicine

Ongoing provincial government support for the Ontario Institute for Regenerative Medicine (OIRM) is critical to maintain Ontario’s global competitiveness in the fast-growing field of regenerative medicine which is developing cutting-edge products and therapies resulting from stem cell research, Dr. Duncan Stewart, president and scientific director of OIRM, and Dr. Tim Smith, chair of the board of directors at OIRM, say in an op-ed.

Innovation players hoping for signs in Throne Speech need to look elsewhere for indication of government’s STI plans

The first Speech from the Throne delivered by Governor General Mary Simon included just a single mention of innovation and made zero references to science or research and development, leaving STI tea-readers bereft.

Startup aims to make it easier to deploy trustworthy and responsible AI

A new Canadian startup is using AI to help businesses use AI-based systems responsibly.

The Short Report - November 24, 2021: BioVectra funding spurs expansion for mRNA vaccine development, UNESCO adopts the Open Science Recommendation, NSERC awards annual research prizes, and more

BioVectra’s funding boost creates room for mRNA vaccine production; UNESCO’s Science Commission unanimously adopts the Recommendation on Open Science; the Government of Canada celebrates Canada’s top natural sciences and engineering research talent, and more.

What will it take for Canada to modernize its financial ecosystem?

Canada is taking several steps to modernize the country’s financial ecosystem, including payment systems. But such initiatives will need continued industry pressure to get them implemented quickly, Nick Catino, Global Head of Policy and Campaigns at Wise, a U.K.-headquartered financial technology services company, says in an op-ed.

Canada's Semiconductor Council releases 30-year action plan to boost semiconductor manufacturing

Canada’s lack of a semiconductor manufacturing base poses a national security risk amid a global shortage, says Canada’s Semiconductor Council in a new report.

Supercluster investments in ocean robotics are starting to reap benefits

A significant investment by Canada’s Ocean Supercluster in companies commercializing robotics and sensor technologies is starting to reap benefits, including creating jobs, building stronger domestic companies and attracting international firms to establish in Canada, says Susan Hunt, the supercluster’s chief technology officer.

Health Canada publishes guiding principles for AI and machine learning in medical devices

Health Canada has published a new set of guiding principles to promote the safe and effective use of medical devices enabled by artificial intelligence and machine learning.

The Short Report - Dec. 8, 2021: Ontario launches flagship EV program, Alberta boosts vaccine development capacity, applied research on the rise, and more

The launch of Ontario’s vehicle innovation network signals readiness for next-generation auto solutions, Alberta invests tens of millions of dollars to fund vaccine research and manufacturing capacity, research activity continues to grow at colleges and institutes across Canada, and more.

Canada lacks the data to make sound policy decisions on digital economy: Conference Board of Canada report

Canada lacks the data on cross-border trade in digital products and services needed to make sound government policy and business investment for the nation’s digital economy, according to a new Conference Board of Canada (CBoC) report by by Swapna Nair, senior economist who leads the Global Commerce Centre at the CBoC.

The Short Report - Dec. 1, 2021: Canadian Nuclear Labs announces project team for Chalk River research centre, CFI's Innovation Fund competition, Mitacs & SSHRC awards, and more

CNL announces project agreement for construction of its new Advanced Nuclear Materials Research Centre, the Canada Foundation for Innovation launches its flagship competition fund for 2023, SSHRC and Mitacs celebrate Canada’s researchers and innovators, and more.

All-time high animal use in research shows need for change, say alternative-method advocates

Some experts argue that new study procedures need to be expanded following record animal use in Canadian research projects during 2020.

Opinion Leader: Effective communication is a key tool for wise ICT procurement and increased productivity

Investment by governments and businesses in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) requires effective verbal communication about project needs, goals and accountability, which will minimize waste, save money and enhance the reputation of both Canada’s ICT industry and the nation’s productivity, says Henry Huang, a systems engineer and author, in an op-ed.

Number 11 / Volume 35 / November 17, 2021

Editorial:
Sebastian Leck

COP26 indicates an accelerating timeline for the transition away from fossil fuels. Moving faster in Canada while avoiding short-term harm will become increasingly complex, writes Research Money’s managing editor Sebastian Leck.

Declining enrolment driving changes in oil and gas university programs

Students’ concerns about climate change and sustainability — along with dropping enrolment in some oil and gas academic programs — are driving a shift in engineering and energy programming by universities in oil-producing Alberta and Newfoundland to encompass all forms of energy, sustainability and the global energy transition.

Ocean Supercluster partners with New York-based real-estate developer on ocean climate solutions

The Ocean Supercluster announced a collaboration with an unlikely partner, a real-estate development company that is re-purposing old industrial plants in New York State.

Most Canadian businesses are poorly informed about AI and its benefits: NGen supercluster report

Most Canadian businesses are not well informed about artificial intelligence and its benefits and have been slow to invest in AI, according to a new report by the Next Generation Manufacturing Canada supercluster, which did an online survey and one-on-one interviews with 30 organizations deeply involved in Canada’s AI ecosystem.

New partnership will connect tech companies with healthcare system to accelerate innovation

A new strategic partnership between Communitech and CAN Health Network is aiming to connect domestic tech firms to procurement opportunities in healthcare.

The Short Report - Nov. 10, 2021: Ottawa funds methane emissions monitoring, U of Sask. receives award to fund vaccine development, a swine research facility, and more

New funding for GHGSat’s expansion of satellites to detect methane emissions, USask’s VIDO receives a $6-million award for vaccine development from an international epidemic coalition, Ontario and Ottawa make investments in livestock research, and more.

Canadian philanthropists sign onto pledge to fund climate change action

As world leaders meet to hammer out a new green deal at COP26, philanthropies across the country are committing to taking action on climate change. They are signing onto the Canadian Philanthropic Commitment to Climate Change — a first-of-its kind funder pledge — that calls on all funders to act on climate change, regardless of their missions.

The Short Report - Nov. 3, 2021: NREN bolsters internet security with MANRS, a new green tech hub, an open science partnership, and more

Five Ontario post-secondary institutions establish a hub to advance climate action solutions, a global initiative bolsters internet routing, the Tanenbaum Open Science Institute (TOSI) at The Neuro announces a new partnership, and more.

Six-week program launches to educate corporate directors on digital economy

A new program launched by the Council of Canadian Innovators will train corporate directors on governance issues faced by fast-growing technology companies.

Opinion Leader: Obesity affects more than nine million Canadians. Why does Canada invest so little in research and treatment?

More than nine million Canadians who may be living with obesity are being left “on their own” due to pervasive stigma in society and lack of investment in research, treatment and policy innovation, Ximena Ramos Salas, PhD, and Brad Hussey, consultants who’ve worked with Obesity Canada, say in an op-ed.

Opinion Leader: Canada’s early focus on artificial intelligence is starting to reap commercial benefits

Canada’s early contributions and long-standing academic expertise in artificial intelligence are now generating growing funding for and revenue in AI in drug development, but the country’s AI-enabled drug development industry faces significant challenges in coming years, Dr. Ulrik Kristensen, PhD, founder and principal analyst at UK-based Emersion Insights, says in an op-ed.

Q&A: Innovation Asset Collective co-founder Jim Hinton on winning the race to the patent office

Jim Hinton is a patent lawyer based in Kitchener-Waterloo and the co-founder of the Innovation Asset Collective (IAC), which launched this year with $30 million in federal funding. Research Money spoke to Hinton about the challenges facing tech developers, researchers and policymakers surrounding IP.

The Short Report - Nov. 17, 2021: Ontario invests in research facilities, UOttawa launches centre for Black health, a win for BrainBox AI at COP26, and more

Ontario invests to attract and retain research talent, UOttawa launches the first Canadian research centre dedicated to studying Black health in Canada, Montreal’s BrainBox AI goes home a winner from COP26, and more.

Protein Industries Canada and partner companies invest $7.6M in pork and beef alternatives

The Protein Industries Canada supercluster has partnered with four companies and researchers at the University of British Columbia on a $7.6-million project to develop and market globally high-quality meat-alternative products, including a plant-based beef to rival Wagyu beef – considered the best in the world.

Opinion Leader: A plant-based future offers myriad health, environmental and economic benefits

Consumer demand for plant-based foods and beverages, including alternative dairy products, is increasing due to health, environmental, economic and other benefits, Sunny Gurnani, CEO of Plant Veda, says in an op-ed.

Alberta R&D facility helping carbon tech startups navigate “valley of death” to commercialization

An Alberta R&D facility for testing technologies that combat climate change is helping startup companies bridge the “valley of death” to commercialization.

Opinion Leader: Successful climate policy requires coherent multi-government alignment of policy, budgets and effective execution

Successful climate policy requires a systematic, multi-stakeholder, multi-sectoral, transparent and coherent approach by all levels of government — municipal, provincial and federal — that aligns policy, budgets and effective execution, Dr. Noel Keough, PhD, co-founder of and senior researcher at Sustainable Calgary, says in an op-ed.

Senate group calls for new era of 'cooperative federalism' to guide post-pandemic recovery

Establishing a multi-stakeholder Prosperity Council and setting ambitious performance targets are key to overcoming Canada’s decades long productivity and competitiveness problems, says new report.

University of Toronto's Black Research Network launches with ambitious agenda

A first-of-its-kind network for Black researchers launched this month at the University of Toronto (U of T). It aims to promote Black excellence and enhance the research capacity of Black scholars.

The Short Report - Oct. 27: Dr. John Polyani awarded 2022 Andrei Sakharov Prize, rapid growth in Ontario's AI ecosystem, U of A's promising antiviral research, and more

The American Physical Society rewards Dr. John Polanyi’s history of nuclear anti-proliferation activism, Ontario’s AI ecosystem is faring well despite pandemic effects, a University of Alberta team uncovers promising antiviral agents for potentially safer, more effective COVID treatment, and more.

Number 10 / Volume 35 / October 20, 2021

Editorial:
Sebastian Leck

After a tight federal election in September, much of our reporting this last month has touched on the quest to build networks of partners and programs that work together in a virtuous cycle, writes Sebastian Leck, Research Money’s managing editor.

Q&A: The CFI's Heidi Bandulet on being Canada's voice for international research infrastructure

Dr. Heidi Bandulet, the Senior Programs Officer at Canada Foundation for Innovation, is the co-chair of the OECD’s new Global Science Forum Expert Group on Very Large Research Infrastructure. Research Money spoke to Bandulet about large research infrastructure projects, her role as Canada’s representative and how to better collaborate in the case of a global crisis like COVID-19.

U15 pre-budget submission: Canada must invest in talent, research and security to stay competitive

As it emerges from the pandemic, Canada faces an increasingly competitive R&D environment and a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape. The federal government should invest in people, invest strategically in Canada’s research ecosystem and invest in rebuilding campuses for tomorrow, according to a pre-Budget submission by the U15 Group of Canadian Research Universities.

B.C. research program funding 12 projects to protect Pacific salmon populations

B.C. researchers, Indigenous groups, companies and other groups are undertaking 12 new research and restoration projects designed to protect the province’s salmon population.

The Short Report - October 13, 2021: CIHR launches Indigenous opportunity fund to tackle COVID-19 challenges; a new president for PHAC, Communitech focuses on company scaleups, and more.

A new CIHR-led opportunity fund will provide up to $6 million in support for Indigenous health and well being; PM Trudeau makes changes to the senior ranks of the public service; Communitech announces True North Strategy to bolster revenue of Canadian startups, and more.

Q&A with Nizar Ladak, CEO of the Digital Research Alliance of Canada, on integrating digital research infrastructure

Research Money spoke with Nizar Ladak, CEO of the Digital Research Alliance (formerly the New Digital Research Infrastructure Organization), created in 2019 to integrate and improve digital tools for Canadian researchers. We discussed the new organization’s journey and how it can ensure that Canadian researchers have the digital tools they need to tackle society’s problems today and in the future.

Opinion Leader: Federal government must provide predictable funding for health research

The federal government needs to make it an urgent priority to provide increased and predictable funding for health and biosciences research, or risk losing the nation’s health research workforce to competing countries like the U.S., the U.K. and Australia, says Paul-Émile Cloutier, president and CEO of HealthCareCAN, in an op-ed.

New business accelerators in Alberta aimed at helping fast-growing tech startup sector

In a $35-million, multiple government-supported initiative, four new business accelerators — including three rooted in Silicon Valley — will set up shop in Alberta to help entrepreneurs and innovators in the province’s fast-growing tech startup sector.

$5-million donation boosts psychedelic science in Canada

Psychedelics research in Canada got a major boost this week with a $5-million donation to Toronto’s University Health Network to establish the Nikean Psychedelic Psychotherapy Research Centre.

The Short Report - Sept. 29, 2021: Alan Bernstein forgoes third term as CIFAR's CEO & President, UHN receives funding gift for psychedelic psychotherapy, and more

Dr. Alan Bernstein to forgo third term leading CIFAR, Nikean Foundation gift marks largest contribution towards psychedelic science and research in Canada, Bruce Power takes the next step towards new isotope production, and more.

B.C. plan to move away from fossil fuels will be difficult to implement, economist says

The B.C. government’s new $260-million electrification program could have challenges meeting its emission-reduction deadline, according Werner Antweiler, an energy economist at the University of British Columbia.

The Short Report - Oct. 20, 2021: A global research hub for vision care, a UWaterloo centre for sustainable aeronautics, the Writer's Trust inaugural Balsillie prize, and more

A joint international research hub for vision health gets off the ground, UWaterloo launches its sustainable aeronautics research institute, Dan Breznitz and André Picard are shortlisted for the Balsillie Prize for Public Policy from the Writer’s Trust of Canada, and more.

Court ruling on aerospace R&D tax credit case affects entire tech sector

A Tax Court of Canada ruling that reduced a Montreal aerospace company’s federal Scientific Research and Experimental Development tax credits impacts the entire tech sector and further complicates a government incentive program already rife with problems and in need of reform, say innovation advocates.

Opinion Leader: A Canadian DARPA will need an enabling ecosystem to succeed

As Canada and other countries look to the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) as a model to drive innovation, it is vital to recognize that DARPA isn’t simply a “plug and play” model but requires a supportive, integrated ecosystem and an enabling culture, says Dr. Camille Boulet, PhD, senior partner at Global Advantage Consulting, in an op-ed.

Canadian startup ecosystems score highly in global report with two areas for improvement

Canada’s tech startup ecosystems performed well overall in Startup Genome’s annual global startup report, but more work is required on global marketing and early-stage investment, says JF Gauthier, CEO of the Startup Genome innovation policy advisory and research firm based in San Francisco.

Canada needs an industrial strategy for AI that prioritizes IP ownership, ICTC report says

Canada’s existing AI strategies have provided the groundwork to create a full industrial strategy to commercialize AI across the country, according to a new report from the Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC).

The Short Report - Oct. 6, 2021: McGill's new innovation fund, an insect research facility for USask, U15 calls for investment in university security measures, and more

McGill makes history with the launch of its innovation fund, an insect research facility at USask will be one of a handful to conduct research on arthropod plant pests and beneficial insects in Canada, the U15 Group of Canadian Research Universities calls for investment in university security systems, and more.

AI in trucking project aims to build national R&D data vault

Researchers at the University of Manitoba and the NRC are using AI to model trucking routes across Manitoba, which they say can reduce the risks of disruption from warming winters, extreme weather events and flooding.

Opinion Leader: Micro credentials require specific components to be credible and effective

The design and delivery of micro credentials require specific components to make them a truly effective solution both for people who need to increase their competencies and the employers who need to hire them, Janet Lane, Director of the Human Capital Centre at the Canada West Foundation, and Stephen Murgatroyd, Chief Information Officer at Contact North, say in an op-ed.

Number 9 / Volume 35 / September 23, 2021

Editorial:
Sebastian Leck

On the face of it, little has changed after the votes were counted for the federal election on Monday. Yet the election introduced new innovation ideas and promises, and will constitute somewhat of a restart for the Liberal government.

Re-elected Liberal government must prioritize Canadian IP ownership, innovation advocates say

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s campaigned on a new $2-billion Canadian advanced research agency modelled after the U.S. Defense Advance Research Program Agency (DARPA). But innovation advocates told Research Money the Liberals should hold off on creating the new agency in favour of focusing on IP ownership.

The Short Report - Sept. 22, 2021: Mintz report calls for tax reform, CSA starts procurement for LUNAR program, a new member of BIOTECanada, and more

Economist Jack Mintz calls for a broad approach to corporate tax reform to stimulate investment in Canada, the Canadian Space Agency moves onto procurement in the lunar exploration program, and GlycoNet becomes a member of the BIOTECanada ecosystem.

By the Numbers: R&D in Canada's aerospace industry

Canada has the fifth largest aerospace industry in the world and 93 percent of Canadian aerospace firms export products to other countries. But aerospace employment and share of GDP have been decreasing since 2012, according to research on the sector.

Opinion Leader: Greater investment, policy reforms needed to support youth-led solutions to climate crisis

Canada needs increased public and private sector investment and policy reforms to support youth-led solutions to the climate crisis, which will save Canadians hundreds of millions of dollars in climate-related costs, Kat Cadungog, executive director of the Foundation for Environmental Stewardship, says in an op-ed.

New Canadian advanced research agency appears likely, says CCI

A Canadian advanced research agency is closer to becoming a reality now that both the Liberals and Conservatives are promising to create one, says the executive-director of the Canadian Council of Innovators (CCI).

How are Canada’s political parties promising to support research and innovation?

Research Money is tracking the parties’ pledges on research and innovation for the upcoming federal election. The Green Party was the latest party to release its platform, which includes promises to increase funding for the granting councils, create a $1-billion Green Venture Capital Fund and establish a new innovation agency.

The Short Report – Sept. 9, 2021: Greens release their campaign platform, $2 million for early-career brain researchers, supporting women-led businesses in Agri-Tech, and more

The Green Part of Canada releases its campaign platform, early-career neuroscience researchers get a boost, The51 Ventures launches a Food & AgTech Fund to support women-led & diverse businesses, and more.

Manufacturing group puts forward 'electoral platform’ advocating for new industrial policies

The Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters have released an “electoral platform” outlining an industrial strategy that they hope the next Canadian government will adopt.

Canadians need safe and legal access to psychedelic drug therapy, including psilocybin

Canadians need safe and legally controlled access to psychedelic drug therapy including psilocybin-assisted therapy which, along with providing treatment for palliative patients, would provide opportunities for research and investment, says Michael Kydd, founder and principal of Kydder Group Inc., in an op-ed.

Q&A: Quebec's Chief Scientist shares lessons on science advice during a pandemic

Global leaders in science advice and science diplomacy will come together next week in Montreal to discuss how to “Build Back Wiser” after the COVID-19 pandemic. Research Money spoke with Rémi Quirion, Chief Scientist of Quebec, about how the pandemic has shaped science advisory systems globally, and how INGSA2021 could contribute to creating stronger and more dynamic ties between scientists and policymakers.

The Short Report – Aug. 25, 2021: $100M to study safer railways, planning Canada’s first Mental Health Innovation Incubator, SSHRC Anti-Black Racism committee, and more…

Policy change and more innovation needed to reap the benefits of industrial cannabis

Policy change and more innovation are needed for Canada to realize the many benefits of industrial cannabis, including its nutritious food value, its ability to reduce carbon emissions and its potential for energy storage, says Carl Martel, an independent scientist and founder of the Ottawa-based Advanced Botanical and Biomass Research Institute, in an op-ed.

Quantum Valley Ideas Lab gets DARPA funding to develop quantum sensing technologies

DARPA, the U.S. defence-related R&D agency, is on everyone’s lips as a Canadian version of the agency became a promise in more than one party platform. Quantum Valley Ideas Lab, an independent research institute in Waterloo, Ont., is participating in new DARPA programs to move quantum technologies out of the laboratory and into the real world.

Aerospace industry calls for more government support, despite significant public subsidies

Canada’s aerospace industry is calling for a national strategy for the sector and more government support for innovation. But critics argue that aerospace is already one of the most subsidized industrial sectors in Canada and, if can’t survive in the global marketplace without continuous public funding, should be allowed to die.

New science advice network established for French-speaking nations

The International Network for Government Science Advice (INGSA) has launched a forum for sharing science advice across the francophone world. Rémi Quirion, Chief Scientist of Quebec, and Mona Nemer, Canada’s Chief Science Advisor, will represent Canada on the steering committee.

The Short Report - Sept. 15, 2021: COVID-19’s financial impact on universities, boosting biotherapeutics manufacturing, and more

A new biomanufacturing partnership will boost Canada’s manufacturing capacity, projecting pandemic-induced revenue loss for Canada’s universities, IPIC makes pre-budget recommendations, and more.

The pandemic pushed open science forward in Canada, but the gains have been modest

The COVID-19 pandemic has been called a “stress test” for open science — one that, by most accounts, it passed. The sharing of new scientific knowledge and data about the SARS-CoV-2 virus and its impacts has been fast and furious. But not all experts are convinced that open will become the new norm for science in Canada. At least, not yet.

Opinion Leader: Canada must prioritize the 'three Ds' to become a leader in the global energy transition

Canada must prioritize the “three Ds” — digitization, decarbonization and decentralization — to become a world leader in the global energy transformation in response to the climate crisis, Frederick Morency, vice-president, energy and services at Schneider Electric Canada, says in an op-ed.

Alberta expands blue hydrogen development despite U.S. study raising environmental concerns

The public and private sectors in Alberta are expanding initiatives to produce “blue” hydrogen from natural gas, despite a study by U.S. researchers at Cornell and Stanford universities that raises concerns about blue hydrogen’s “lifecycle” carbon emissions.

How a team of researchers developed technologies to help revitalize Indigenous languages

Budget 2017 funded language revitalization technologies for over 25 Indigenous languages. Researchers have used the funding to develop unique tools for teaching Indigenous languages that diverge greatly from the structure of English and French — but they are now preparing to release the software as open-source if funding for the project ends in 2022.

The Short Report – Sept. 1, 2021: Liberals release their campaign platform, feedback sought on new CFI fund, industrial R&D on par with 2019, and more

Creative Destruction Lab launches new brain tech accelerator

Toronto’s Creative Destruction Lab (CDL) has launched a new program dedicated to commercializing brain technologies. Starting in October, an inaugural cohort of 20 seed-stage ventures from around the world will join CDL Neuro.

Number 8 / Volume 35 / August 18, 2021

Editorial:
Sebastian Leck

It’s official: Canada will have a federal election on September 20. The election appears to be Trudeau’s election to lose, but it will still offer opportunity to debate the Liberals’ track record and popularize new ideas in the innovation space, writes Sebastian Leck, Research Money’s managing editor.

Q&A: Sustainable Development Technology Canada's head Leah Lawrence on the explosion in clean tech investment

Research Money sat down with Leah Lawrence, the SDTC’s CEO and president, to ask her where clean technology in Canada is heading and what to expect as the country recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic.

BC hydrogen strategy aims to spur new policies and investments in the sector

The British Columbia government’s recently introduced hydrogen strategy will accelerate the commercialization of hydrogen and fuel-cell technologies, says the B.C. head of the Canadian Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association (CHFCA).

Opinion: Better use of physics and information science can help move beyond outdated economic theories

Applying the ideas and tools of physics and information science — rather than relying on social science theory and outmoded economic concepts — can help develop sustainable businesses and increase regional economic diversification and growth, Randal Adcock, co-founder and chair of Wayfinders Business Co-operative, says in an op-ed.

New digital research infrastructure organization announces first funding opportunity

Canada’s New Digital Research Infrastructure Organization (NDRIO) — created in 2019 to fix a system that has been described at “fragmented, oversubscribed and underfunded” — has announced its first funding program. The new national not-for-profit organization says it will spend $20 million to build national research capacity and create a “broad and integrated” Canadian digital research infrastructure ecosystem.

Flexibility will be key to the future of work, ICTC report finds

The future of work will be flexible, but what that means will differ greatly between precarious gig workers and better-paid employees who work remotely by choice, a new report from the Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) has found.

The Short Report - August 4, 2021: Ottawa's new biomanufacturing and life sciences strategy, a national startup job board, rural transit solutions, and more

Ottawa prepares for future pandemics with launch of life science strategy, CellCAN and CCRM launch a new cell and gene therapy institute to tackle gaps in training, a new fund dedicated to developing transit solutions for rural and remote communities, and more.

Canada's outdated flood maps are a liability. New funding could finally change that

Flooding is already Canada’s most widespread and costly natural disaster. Part of the solution lies in updating the country’s flood maps, the majority of which are 20 to 25 years out of date. New federal support could make that a priority, but Canadians are already paying the price of inaction.

The Short Report - July 28, 2021: Genomic projects boost environmental resilience, backing innovation at Canada's colleges, and more

Ottawa and partners commit $60 million to natural resources and environmental genomics projects, applied research funding at Canadian colleges gets a boost, and more.

Conservative Party’s plan to create DARPA-like research agency gets support of business groups

Some prominent business groups are welcoming a Conservative innovation policy calling for a new Canadian advanced research agency modelled after the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Program Agency (DARPA).

Opinion Leader: New national security guidelines for research partnerships will have to face the reality of research culture

The federal government’s new national security guidelines for research partnerships raise numerous concerns that range from discouraging research collaborations to potentially interfering with academic freedom, says Dr. Alex Navarre, PhD, a research associate at Université du Québec, in an op-ed.

Moderna to build vaccine production facility as part of new federal biomanufacturing strategy

The U.S.-based vaccine manufacturer Moderna Inc. will be building a plant in Canada after signing a memorandum of understanding with the Canadian government this week.

The Short Report - August 11, 2021: A feasibility study to export blue hydrogen from Alberta to Asia, tech to reduce pesticide use, and more

Petronas Energy and Itochu Corporation consider exporting blue hydrogen from Alberta, a UWaterloo engineering team gets backing to secure Canada’s critical energy infrastructure, FedNor grows up, and more.

Microsoft, Queen's and Lululemon back $20M AI project to build health chatbots

Microsoft, Lululemon, Queen’s University and Toronto-based company Wysdom.AI will be collaborating on an AI project meant to develop a health and well-being chatbot platform.

Opinion: Embracing community-based research principles can achieve equity in health outcomes

The largest community-academic collaborative study of women living with HIV in Canada shows that embracing community-based research principles can help achieve equity in research process and health outcomes, Dr. Angela Kaida, PhD, Associate Professor of Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University, and Valerie Nicholson, Indigenous Peer Researcher at the British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, say in an op-ed.

B.C. researchers testing software solution to chronic under-reporting of dangerous drug events

Most Canadian doctors don’t comply with the Protecting Canadians from Unsafe Drugs Act, also known as Vanessa’s Law, which requires hospitals and clinics to report adverse drug events to Health Canada. Two researchers are attempting to create a software platform to solve the problem — but establishing a national network requires overcoming extremely thorny policy issues.

Opinion: Targeted measures needed to improve Canada’s national defence against pandemics and other catastrophic events

Canada needs targeted measures, including a preparedness plan, a pandemic coordinator and adequate medical countermeasures to improve the country’s national defence against pandemics and other catastrophic events, say Camille Boulet, Senior Partner, and Daniel Katz, Lead Research Analyst, at Ottawa-based Global Advantage Consulting Group in an op-ed.

The Short Report – Aug. 18, 2021: Conservatives release innovation plan, pre-election funding awards, a new phase of an aging study, and more

The Conservative Party of Canada releases its innovation plan, more than 330 university research projects receive $77 million through the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the federal government pours $61.5 million into the next phase of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, and more.

Number 7 / Volume 35 / July 21, 2021

Editorial:
Sebastian Leck

International science collaborations have never been more active than during the pandemic. The sharing of scientific information across borders — from genomic datasets to open-access journal articles — has allowed for rapid progress in the fight against COVID-19 that would otherwise have been hamstrung.

Ottawa, B.C. and Shell invest $105 million in new low-carbon innovation centre

Critics say the plan to expand carbon-capture and storage will extend Canada’s dependence on fossil fuels.

Federal government launches consultation to study AI copyright rules

Starting this week, the Canadian government is asking for public input on a “modern copyright framework” for artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things.

Ottawa introduces new national security guidelines for NSERC grants

The federal government has released a list of guidelines for universities and research institutions as the result of a working group convened earlier this summer.

Global ocean-mapping project bolstered by Canadian-made AI tool

A new Canadian-made software tool could help speed up a global effort to create a definitive map of the ocean floor.

Opinion: Canada’s university science innovation ecosystem needs a build-for-scale strategy

Canada’s university science innovation ecosystem needs a build-for-scale strategy that supports academic scientist-entrepreneurs from ideation through to commercialization, Elicia Maine, the W.J. VanDusen Professor of Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Simon Fraser University, says in an op-ed.

B.C.-based company to build nuclear fusion test plant in England

A Vancouver-area company with backing from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos plans to start building a nuclear-fusion test plant in England next year as part of a collaboration agreement with the U.K. government.

By the Numbers: Research projects across Canada receive a $635 million boost

The Government of Canada has directed $635 million of funding to research projects through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) and the Canadian Research Chair (CRC) programs.

Opinion: Addressing Canada’s digital divide requires equitable access to data

Canada needs to address inequities in who has access to the power and promise of data science and advanced analytics, including by supporting training for grassroots, charitable and community organizations to collect, access and manage data, Kelly Nolan, an external affairs and equity, diversity and inclusion expert based in Ottawa, says in an op-ed.

Canada's first rare earths projects underway in push to build new industry

A mine in the Northwest Territories, set to start Canada’s first production of rare earth concentrate in July in Saskatchewan, will build a rare earths processing facility in Saskatoon, as the public and private sectors ramp up efforts to make Canada a supplier of choice for strategic critical minerals.

Q&A: Chris Albinson on why Canada's Waterloo Region could be the next Silicon Valley

Chris Albinson, the new CEO of Waterloo-based Communitech, says he sees the same process underway in Silicon Valley today that took place in Boston in the late 1990s — and the Waterloo Region is well-placed to become the technology hub to replace it.

The Short Report - June 30, 2021: Ontario invests $70M in R&D, Ottawa supports optics and photonics research, a Nova Scotia centre of forestry innovation, and more

Ontario announces support for hundreds of research projects across the province; Quebec’s INO optics and photonics research centre gets a boost, Nova Scotia launches a forestry innovation centre, and more.

National climate plan needs to focus on foundational public research and transformative Canadian technologies

Canada’s national climate plan needs a complementary approach focused on long-term public research and innovation to develop transformative Canadian technologies, including novel approaches to carbon management, Wilf Keller, Vice-President, Outreach at the Agri-food Innovation Council, says in an op-ed.

Canadian and Quebec governments pour $685 million into three aerospace companies

Governments in Ottawa and Quebec City have committed hundreds of millions of dollars in support for aerospace companies after the pandemic decimated the sector.

The Short Report - July 21, 2021: Canada's fast-growing tech talent, UBC joins global autism initiative, and more

A CBRE report shows Canada has some of the fastest growing tech talent pools In North America, UBC joins a global network to personalize autism care, and more.

NSERC to fast-track grant approvals after COVID-19 rapid-response programs pay off

Ottawa plans to fast-track smaller grant approvals in multiple research areas based on the success of two COVID-19 quick-response research funding programs, Research Money has learned. The council plans to roll out its new rapid-response grants within the next year.

Six months on, Canada’s first patent collective is expanding its membership

The Innovation Asset Collective, Canada’s first patent collective, more than doubled its membership in its first six months and has awarded two rounds of grants to its member companies to help them own, access and use intellectual property.

The Short Report - July 14, 2021: Rémi Quirion to lead International Network for Government Science Advice, mining gets a $40 million boost, and more

Québec’s Chief Scientist, Rémi Quirion, heads the INGSA international network, Ottawa moves to accelerate innovation in Canadian mining, and more.

Q&A: Entrepreneur Mark Blackwell on building a strong innovation ecosystem in Calgary

At 32, Mark Blackwell is a seasoned entrepreneur, venture capitalist and board chair of the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund. Research Money spoke to Blackwell about his experience in Silicon Valley, what success means to him and strengthening the innovation ecosystem in Calgary and Canada.

Non-profit to grade transparency in government policymaking

The non-profit Evidence for Democracy has released a framework to judge government policies based on the level of transparency around evidence.

The Short Report - July 7, 2021: Ottawa invests $38 million in applied R&D at colleges, Carleton U joins as founding partner of Hub350, and more

Canada and EU deepen research partnerships as Horizon Europe talks enter new phase

As the global geopolitical landscape shifts, Canada and the European Union are deepening bilateral cooperation on research and innovation. At the EU-Canada Joint Summit in Brussels in mid June, leaders announced new partnerships on health, the oceans and raw materials, and agreed to launch exploratory discussions on Canada joining Horizon Europe, the EU’s new €100-billion research program.

Opinion: It's time for Canada to rethink its innovation policies and integrate its programs

Canada must rationalize its innovation programs and provide its research, development and innovation ecosystem with coherent direction as part of a plan for long-term economic growth, Dr. Camille Boulet, PhD, and Ömer Kaya at Global Advantage Consulting Group, say in an op-ed piece.

Number 6 / Volume 35 / June 23, 2021

Editorial:
Sebastian Leck

A recent IEA report indicates that it will be critical to develop new clean technology in the next decade, writes Sebastian Leck, Research Money’s managing editor.

Government and industry push to make Canada preferred supplier in critical minerals market dominated by China

China currently dominates the global market for rare earth materials. Establishing a domestic rare earths industry in Canada will take a focused industrial strategy, more government support and greater private investment, say industry executives and academic and government researchers.

Canada's NSERC and the US National Science Foundation establish formal research partnership

Canada and the United States have established a formal research partnership between the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and the US National Science Foundation to advance collaboration in fundamental discovery research.

How an Alberta entrepreneur built software to employ people with autism around the world

Alberta Innovates and the National Research Council’s Industrial Research Assistance Program have been crucial to Edmonton entrepreneur Ling Huang in developing technology that helps young adults with autism and other neurodiverse individuals find long-term employment in the digital economy.

New program launches to help Alberta innovators commercialize digital health technologies

Alberta Innovates has launched a new program called Accelerating Innovations into CarE (AICE)-Concepts that provides funding to help early-stage entrepreneurs commercialize digital health technologies.

Government 'can and should pick winners' to grow scale-up companies, says federal advisor

In a recent report for the Brookfield Institute for Innovation + Entrepreneurship, Sheldon Levy, special advisor to the federal minister of small business and export promotion, argued that government should identify and support select firms with high potential to become global competitors. “There are many countries that have to pick their laneway and can’t be the best at everything all the time,” Levy told Research Money.

Future Skills Centre to invest $25.9M in promising skills training projects

The Future Skills Centre, an applied research centre that tests and evaluates innovative approaches to skills development, has announced a $25.9 million investment into 10 projects dedicated to providing skills development and employment opportunities to marginalized communities.

How Canada can upskill its workforce after the COVID-19 pandemic

The disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has created the perfect conditions to consider new, innovative approaches to rapidly upskill and redeploy domestic talent, say AJ Tibando and Arvind Gupta, the executive director and the CEO of Palette Skills, respectively, in an opinion piece.

Q&A: John Ruffolo on his plan to fund the next phase of the Information Revolution in Canada

We spoke with Ruffolo about the thesis for his new private equity firm Maverix, why he’s seeing “ridiculous” deal flow, and what it takes to keep high-growth companies in Canada.

Health charities fear a slow pandemic recovery will undermine research programs

A year into the pandemic, Canada’s health charities are still struggling as a result of massive declines in donations. Fear is mounting that their ability to support research initiatives — a core part of their missions — will be jeopardized for years to come.

Federal investments in clean tech and sustainable practices in agriculture could drive down carbon emissions

The Canadian government is incentivizing clean technology and sustainability practices in agriculture, which industry experts say could help Canada meet its climate change objectives and make agriculture more efficient.

The potential $100-billion Indigenous economy must be incorporated into Canada's future, author argues

Indigenous peoples and their potential $100-billion economy must be partners in Canada’s economic future, experts told the Empire Club of Canada webinar held on April 20.

The Short Report - May 26, 2021: Canada's funding agencies launch interdisciplinary peer review program, Alberta launches medical studies website, and more

Canada’s three research funding agencies have launched the Tri-agency Interdisciplinary Peer Review Committee; Alberta creates a platform to boost clinical trials; Ontario Tech University is designated a collaboration centre by the UN International Atomic Energy Agency, and more.

Canada needs to invest in the energy infrastructure of the future, not the past

It is time for Canada to abandon a 100-year-old energy model built on inexpensive hydrocarbons and plan for an energy system that will be dominated by electricity, Michal C. Moore, research fellow at Cornell University and professor emeritus at the University of Calgary, says in an op-ed piece.

Backgrounder: Why demand for critical minerals is expected to skyrocket in the coming decades

Global demand for critical minerals, including rare earth elements, is forecast to grow by several orders of magnitude by 2030 to supply high-tech applications such as electric vehicles, according to several organizations.

To fuel innovation, Canada needs an R&D spending target: David Watters

Canada needs a national R&D spending target and a permanent process for building a better R&D innovation system to overcome its lagging innovation performance and fuel longterm economic growth, says David Watters, president and CEO of Global Advantage Consulting Group.

The Short Report - June 23, 2021: Construction finishes on Biologic's vaccine plant, a new interdisciplinary school of health at Concordia, quantum research funding in Quebec and more

Minister Champagne announces construction of NRC’s vaccine plant in Montreal is complete, Concordia gets go-ahead for a new school of interdisciplinary health, NISC receives quantum research funding to improve online communication security, and more.

COVID-19 return-to-work solution emerges from ISED prototype testing program

The pandemic is creating new opportunities for Canadian businesses, including Smartcone Technologies, Inc., which specializes in industrial Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. The company has developed a system to screen people for COVID-19 in real time that hinges on a simple smell test.

The Short Report - June 16, 2021: Major science bill passes US Senate, Canada's tri-agencies launch research data management policy, and more

A massive science bill in the US could double the National Science Foundation’s budget over the next five years; Canada’s federal funding agencies prioritize research data management with a new policy, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada launches a new $165.7-million clean tech program, and more.

UBC launches renewable-energy research hub to create ‘living lab’ on campus

A $23-million UBC renewable-energy research hub featuring a hydrogen refuelling station for cars, trucks and buses will generate clean-transportation developments across the globe, says the project’s lead researcher.

Q&A: Kendra MacDonald, CEO of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, on growing the country’s ocean-based economy

To recognize the annual United Nations World Oceans Day (June 8) and its theme “One Ocean, One Climate, One Future – Together,” Research Money spoke with Kendra MacDonald, CEO of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, about the opportunities and challenges in growing the country’s ocean economy and the Ocean Supercluster’s activities.

The Short Report - June 9, 2021: Ontario boosts high tech innovation with $100M VC fund, grants for Dalhousie's battery pioneers, a major donation to U of Guelph's groundwater research, and more

A new Ontario venture fund to drive innovation and growth, the largest Alliance Grant in Dalhousie U’s history to make electric vehicles more accessible, a $10 million gift to UGuelph’s G360 Institute boosts global groundwater research, and more.

Parliament votes to create a new committee to spotlight science and research issues

Canada’s 44th Parliament will have a Standing Committee on Science and Research as a result of a motion spearheaded in the House of Commons by Deputy House Leader and former science minister Kirsty Duncan. It passed with unanimous support last Wednesday.

The Short Report - June 2, 2021: Cleantech R&D gets a boost, Biden's 2022 research budget, UBC studies rapid testing kits, and more

Ottawa invests more than $44 million to bolster cleantech R&D innovation, US President Joseph Biden asks for US $13.5 billion increase in federal R&D spending, the University of British Columbia’s COVID-19 rapid testing clinic to be a first in Canada, and more.

Q&A: the European Commission's Jean-Eric Paquet and CFI's Dr. Roseann O'Reilly Runte on research infrastructure after COVID-19

Research Money spoke to Jean-Eric Paquet, the director general of the European Commission’s Research and Innovation directorate, along with Roseann O’Reilly Runte, the president and CEO of the Canada Foundation for Innovation, on how COVID-19 will affect research infrastructure and how those lessons might apply to future crises.

Canada needs massive investment into the youth innovation space to support economic diversification

Canada needs “massive” investment in education, transformative learning and innovation programs for young people to support the country’s economic diversification, Cassy Weber, CEO of MindFuel, says in an opinion piece.

Number 5 / Volume 35 / May 19, 2021

Editorial:
Sebastian Leck

Too often, the products of science and research done within Canada’s borders ends up being sold or commercialized elsewhere. But there’s been a strong effort in the last few months to attempt to reverse the decades-long trend, writes Research Money’s managing editor Sebastian Leck.

Largest-ever federal investments in intellectual property a “significant step” toward improving Canada’s global competitiveness, IP experts and innovation groups say

Federal Budget 2021 included the government’s largest-ever investments in intellectual property and IP services, underscoring the importance of protecting and leveraging IP for Canada’s economic growth, according to IP experts and heads of innovation groups.

MaRS innovation hub hits pause on plan to expand to Calgary

The Toronto-based MaRS Discovery District innovation hub has hit the “pause button” on expanding to Calgary after more than a year of discussions with the University of Calgary and other players in Calgary’s innovation ecosystem. However, MaRS says it will continue working with and supporting Alberta companies during the scale-up stage from its Toronto base.

CMC Microsystems pitches Ottawa on $120-million chip manufacturing plan amid global shortage

Two separate groups are hoping to safeguard Canada against future semiconductor chip shortages. CMC Microsystems has applied for $120 million to expand domestic manufacturing capacity for niche applications, while a new semiconductor council has started work on a National Semiconductor Strategy and Action Plan.

Budget 2021 initiatives expected to strengthen long-ignored areas of women's health research

Female researchers and health care providers are welcoming federal Budget 2021’s $72.6-million investment in women’s health research and medicine.

Canada needs major changes to improve care for the aging, including research and innovation focused on dementia

Canada urgently needs major changes to improve care for the aging, including more research, innovation and healthcare training focused on dementia, says Lisa Poole, a family care partner and co-chair of Dementia Advocacy Canada, in an opinion piece.

As federal budget doubles down on AI funding, industry leaders hope for greater push to commercialize

With a new federal budget doubling down on existing artificial intelligence programs and emphasizing intellectual property, some industry leaders hope the investments will help Canada maintain its early lead and create AI champions in the country.

Today’s energy infrastructure can provide tomorrow's clean energy

Western Canada’s oil and gas industry is ideally positioned with the knowledge, assets and personnel to develop clean geothermal energy as part of the global transition to low-carbon energy, writes David Yager, an entrepreneur who has been a founder, executive and director of three oilfield service companies.

Canadians needs to embrace the entrepreneur to make Canada a leader in the digital economy

Canadians needs to “embrace the entrepreneur” and invest in the innovation ecosystem to make Canada a leader in the digital economy, says Perry Kinkaide, a former public servant, corporate executive and manager of Kinkaide Enterprises Inc., in an opinion piece.

As the federal government launches a quantum strategy, researchers say nurturing a long-term, cohesive ecosystem is key

The federal government is leaning on quantum technology to help restore and drive long-term economic growth. But realizing a national quantum strategy will require a sustained commitment, enhanced coordination, and a commitment to addressing the societal, ethical, legal and policy implications of the quantum revolution, Canada’s quantum leaders told Research Money.

The Short Report - May 19, 2021: Ottawa injects $200 million into domestic vaccine manufacturing capacity, CAN Health Network project extended, nuclear leaders prepare CANDU reactors for decommissioning, and more

Resilience Biotechnologies receives significant funding to produce made-in-Canada vaccines, Ottawa extends the CAN Health Network project in Ontario by one year with a $3.25-million investment, Canada’s nuclear leaders collaborate on the decommissioning process, and more.

New $200-million venture fund launched to close gap in deep tech financing

BDC Capital is behind the launch of a $200-million Deep Tech Venture Fund that will invest in early stage companies in quantum information science, photonics, electronics, foundational artificial intelligence—all sectors that have been underfunded in Canada.

New funding approaches could address gender disparities, peer review bias: Council of Canadian Academies

Creative funding models and other innovative tools could help Canada’s research funding agencies address issues such as gender disparities, peer review bias and inequitable funding for researchers and institutions, says the chair of a new expert panel report by the Council of Canadian Academies. The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada commissioned the report as part of NSERC’s planning process for its new long-term strategic plan.

Superclusters doing “good things” for Canada’s innovation ecosystem despite criticisms, says former federal deputy minister

The superclusters should be assessed by a broad innovation policy framework and with a longer time frame than their initial five-year mandate, says John Knubley, the former deputy minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada who was responsible for the creation of the superclusters initiative.

Canada’s research funding agencies must experiment to keep up with evolving science landscape: Council of Canadian Academies report

Changes impacting the natural sciences and engineering fields include a sense of “hyper-competition” for research funding that is particularly affecting young investigators, says Dr. Shirley M. Tilghman, the chair of a new Council of Canadian Academies expert panel that released a report this week.

The Short Report - May 5, 2021: Federal government invests in vaccine uptake, Carleton U embarks on aging project, $5 million for new ocean supercluster projects, and more

This week in The Short Report, the Canadian Association of Science Centres receives funding to address vaccine misinformation while U of T targets strategies to reduce fear of needles; the University of Alberta receives industry funding to bolster wheat-breeding capacity, the Rideau Hall Foundation recognizes excellence in innovation, and more.

Number 4 / Volume 35 / April 28, 2021

Editorial:
Sebastian Leck

The 2021 federal budget undoubtedly provided large and much-needed investments to Canadian science and technology. However, the federal government needs to better articulate its industrial policies and strategy, writes Research Money managing editor Sebastian Leck.

In a shift of tactics, CSIS briefs researchers directly to counter security threats

Warning that spies have “traded trench coats for lab coats,” analysts from Canada’s spy agency have begun giving briefs to Canadian universities, medical research institutes, pharmaceutical companies and others involved in the pandemic response on emerging national security threats.

Q&A: Evidence for Democracy's Rachael Maxwell on Budget 2021 and listening to the science

Rachael Maxwell, the new executive director of Evidence for Democracy (E4D), recently released an analysis of the federal budget, which noted promising investments in sectors like quantum tech and genomics but argued that the country needs a national science strategy. Maxwell spoke to Research Money this week about the federal budget, why relationships are most important in developing evidence-based policies, and how she views her organization’s role in the science ecosystem.

Science, technology and innovation are big winners in Liberal pre-election budget with investments across multiple sectors

Ottawa’s minority Liberal government introduced an election-style budget with $101 billion in across-the-board largesse, highlighted by new early-education and childcare program spending but extending throughout Canada’s science, technology and innovation (STI) sectors.

After billions in funding, Strategic Innovation Fund failed to improve Canada’s innovation performance, experts say

Nearly $3.4 billion in federal spending through the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) during the last three years has failed to improve Canada’s “disastrous” innovation performance and productivity, say some innovation and policy experts. An analysis by Research Money of SIF data shows that Ontario, Quebec and foreign-based firms have received the lion’s share of SIF funding.

Vaccine independence requires a 21st-Century Connaught Labs, policy experts argue

The federal and Ontario governments recently announced a $470-million investment to expand Sanofi Pasteur Limited’s vaccine manufacturing capability. But for Canada to be truly self-sufficient in vaccine development and production, critics say other models must be considered—including a 21st-century version of Connaught Labs.

The Short Report - April 21, 2021: SIF gets $7.2 billion in 2021 federal budget, BC budget invests in new strategic fund, Biden's funding surge, a boost for the Stem Cell Network, and more

The 2021 federal budget gives a big boost to the NRC’s Industrial Research Assistance Program, BC budget provides $500 million to new fund for tech startups, US President Joe Biden proposes funding surge for federal research agencies, Canada’s Stem Cell Network to receive $45 million dollars for regenerative medicine therapies, and more.

Future Skills Centre invests $32 million in post-pandemic future of work, including first-of-its kind free education pilot

The Future Skills Centre, an applied research centre that tests and evaluates innovative approaches to skills development, is investing $32 million in 64 projects to “shock-proof” the workplace of the future. The projects include a pilot program to provide free post-secondary education in Alberta, the first of its kind in Canada.

Life sciences organizations ask Ottawa for national strategy following Sanofi investment

A group of 19 health sciences organizations and associations asked for a “coherent” life sciences strategy and increased collaboration this Monday in an open letter addressed to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The letter follows a $415-million federal investment into a partnership with French pharmaceutical manufacturer Sanofi to build an influenza vaccine manufacturing facility in Toronto.

The Short Report - April 14, 2021: Alberta invests in vaccine R&D, Ottawa brings wireless tech to mining industry, CIB shores up Ontario's energy grid, and more

In this week’s The Short Report, the Government of Alberta contributes $20 million for vaccine R&D, a Canadian Infrastructure Bank invests in Ontario’s energy grid, 5G wireless tech to increase safety and reliability in the mining industry, Palette Skills leads consortium to address talent gaps in a post-COVID economy, and more.

Oil and gas innovation network offers $80 million in clean technology competitions

The Clean Resource Innovation Network (CRIN) is making up to $80 million in federal funding available through oil and gas industry challenges to accelerate the development and commercialization of clean technology.

The Short Report - April 7, 2021: VC investment hits $4.4 billion in 2020, Ontario’s rise as a hub for autonomous vehicles, Gairdner Awards recognize biomedical research, and more

VC investment in Canada hit its second highest level last year, Canada’s annual Gairdner awards announced, Quebec SMEs benefit from a $9 million e-commerce boost, Ontario invests in autonomous vehicles, and more.

Canada, France and UK host high-level roundtables to identify collaborative opportunities in key research areas

Canada is participating in a series of expert stakeholder roundtables with France and the UK to identify new opportunities for collaboration to bolster each country’s economy while meeting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Opinion Leader: Federal funding for energy efficiency must tackle impact on low-income Canadians

The federal government’s upcoming budget needs to address the problem of “energy poverty” as an urgent priority, Kirsten Pulles, Community Organizer for Efficiency Canada, says in an op-ed. This includes funding low-income energy efficiency programs, making meaningful reductions in energy use, and training and hiring lower-income, rural and racialized Canadians to do the energy efficiency upgrades and outreach work, she says.

It’s time to build a foundation for more equitable entrepreneurship, economic growth and innovation

The COVID pandemic showed that society is capable of dramatic and rapid change when the situation calls for it. In the current social environment, similar action is needed to turn women’s increasing wealth into a foundation for more equitable entrepreneurship, economic growth and innovation, says Maria Pacella, the managing partner at Pender Ventures, in an op-ed.

BC budget includes $500 million for strategic investment fund to retain IP in the province

BC Premier John Horgan said his government wants to stem the “flow of brain power out of British Columbia” with an investment fund that provides $500 million to small- and medium-size businesses with the potential for high growth.

The Short Report - April 28, 2021: COVID-19 data portal goes live, Protein Industries Canada launches new phase of plant-based food plan, Carleton funding bolsters ecosystem conservation, and more

Genome Canada’s portal for tracking variants of concern across Canada is up and running; a Carleton biology team gets support for bolstering ecosystem conservation; Protein Industries Canada starts the second phase of plans to boost plant-based foods, feed and ingredients; a briefing from the Royal Society of Canada calls on federal leadership to stabilize the postsecondary sector; and more.

By the Numbers: Who's getting funded in the 2021 federal budget?

To keep track of the array of agencies and programs receiving funding, Research Money has created a list of the STI initiatives benefiting from the 2021 federal budget.

Strategic Innovation Fund producing “significant benefits” for Canadians, ISED says

Research Money asked Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) to respond to four questions about criticisms of the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) program. In response, ISED says SIF is producing “significant benefits” for Canadians, including new jobs created, co-op placements and investment in R&D and new technologies.

Opinion: Canadian universities and companies must proactively assess risks of collaboration with China

China’s investments in and with Canadian universities and companies pose a serious risk to Canada’s security, personal data, research and technology, says Margaret McCuaig-Johnston, a senior fellow at the Institute for Science, Society and Policy at the University of Ottawa, and former executive vice-president of NSERC.

Three levels of government provide more than $2 million to launch Canada’s first hydrogen hub in Alberta

Federal, Alberta and municipal governments are jointly providing $2.25 million to launch Canada’s first industrial hydrogen hub in the Edmonton region. Initial funding for the hub is seen as the first step in creating what Ottawa envisions will be a $50-billion Canadian clean hydrogen sector.

Council of Canadian Academies launches federally-supported projects to assess urgent scientific challenges

The Council of Canadian Academies (CCA) has launched four new, federally-supported projects to assess urgent scientific challenges. Expert panels will evaluate the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence for science and engineering, Canada’s carbon sink potential, public safety in the digital age, and the impacts of health and science misinformation.

Canada poised to lead in ocean research with the right focus and policies

With the right focus, policies and funding, Canada could be poised to seize a significant part of the ocean economy’s growth as the globe recovers and rebuilds post-pandemic, says Donald Grant, executive director at the Ocean Startup Project.

BHER Roundtable concludes national innovation challenge to boost COVID-19 recovery

The Business and Higher Education Roundtable wrapped up its first Canada Comeback Challenge this month, a national challenge meant to shore up opportunities for students and support economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic. Student projects included a mining data platform, a wayfinder algorithm for visually-impaired users and a policy program to encourage flexible work policies.

Canada's emissions-reduction policies and lower costs drive increasing investment in energy storage

Government and business investment in electrical-grid connected battery energy storage is growing, driven by lower costs for the technology and Canada’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

NACO to launch pan-regional digital hub in Calgary to connect entrepreneurs with investors

The Toronto-based National Angel Capital Organization (NACO) will establish the first pan-regional digital hub for investors and entrepreneurs in a custom-built space in the new Platform Innovation Centre being built by Platform Calgary in downtown Calgary.

The Short Report - March 31, 2021: Canadian government invests $925 million in biomanufacturing, funding for variants research, a new digitalization centre, and more

Ottawa announces major funding to expand Sanofi Pasteur’s Ontario facility for domestic biomanufacturing and vaccine preparedness; there’s new funding support for COVID-19 variants research and a new national network, and Siemens launches its first centre to accelerate the digitalization of energy and infrastructure in Canada.

Number 3 / Volume 35 / March 24, 2021

Opinion Leader:
Michael J. Strong

As fight against COVID-19 continues, we must prepare for the next health crisis

The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) will be supporting the creation of a new Centre for Pandemic Preparedness and Health Emergencies, CIHR president Michael J. Strong says in an op-ed.

Performance-based funding for universities is an unsound policy that sounds good

Performance-based funding proposed by some provinces for post-secondary institutions uses flawed indicators and hasn’t worked in other jurisdictions, Dr. Marc Spooner, PhD, professor of educational psychology at the University of Regina, says in an op-ed. “How governments can, in good conscience, ignore the damage these models have caused in other jurisdictions where they have been unsuccessfully implemented is difficult to understand.”

Dark Vessel partnership between MDA and Department of Fisheries and Oceans shows potential of commercial satellite data

Space technology company MDA is partnering with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and the Department of National Defense on a $7-million project to detect and track illegal fishing boats. The project demonstrates the potential of commercial satellite data, as more companies have begun to offer data services to governments around the world.

Q&A: Dr. Richard Gold on why open science partnerships could reverse declining research productivity

Spending on scientific research has been rising for the last 50 years while, at the same time, researcher productivity has been dropping. That’s what Dr. Richard Gold, law professor and Director of the Centre for Intellectual Property Policy at McGill University, argues in a new paper that positions open science partnerships as a potential solution.

Canada needs a targeted industrial strategy to improve innovation performance, experts say

Canada’s continued poor performance in innovation and business productivity is due to a failure to link publicly funded research and innovation programs to an industrial strategy based on the country’s strengths, say innovation experts. Meanwhile, studies by University of Toronto researchers show the federal innovation agenda has negatively impacted funding for basic, investigator-driven research but hasn’t addressed the underlying problem of industrial innovation in Canada.

Demand for ‘natural’ drives new $50M fund for early-stage Canadian tech companies

NPC Ventures is a $50-million investment fund for early-stage Canadian companies developing naturally-derived alternatives to synthetic products. The fund is led by Kristi Miller, who says she believes there exists a “tremendous opportunity for Canadian companies to meet this exponential demand for ‘natural’.”

Ocean Supercluster embarks on aquaculture data project in effort to ramp up ocean economy

The Ocean Supercluster is participating in a nearly $27-million data analytics project led by Norway-based Grieg Seafood, an international salmon producer, alongside partners Innovasea, SubC Imaging, AKVA Group and High-Tech Communications. Kendra MacDonald, CEO of the Ocean Supercluster, says Canada’s coastlines have long been underutilized compared to other countries.

The Short Report – March 17, 2021: Canadian government invests heavily to bolster biomanufacturing, D-Wave Systems gets funding for quantum tech, Canada’s largest study on aging gets a top-up, and more

The Government of Canada seeks to bolster Canada’s biomanufacturing capacity, D-Wave receives $40 million to accelerate Canada’s quantum technology development, the federal government invests in Canada’s longest-ever study on aging, Quebec’s Lion Electric gets ready to break ground on a new battery manufacturing plant, and more.

The Short Report – March 10, 2021: Federal funding for applied genomics, investments in plant-based proteins, the death of a renowned Alberta ecologist, and more

The Government of Canada invests $8.6 million towards applied genomics research with another $17.8 million from its partners, Protein Industries Canada funds three plant-based protein projects, the death of renowned Alberta ecologist Dr. David Schindler, and more.

Oil and gas innovation network has yet to spend $80 million of federal funding for cleaner technologies

A pan-Canadian oil and natural gas innovation network has yet to spend the bulk of $100 million of federal funding on commercializing new, cleaner technologies, two years after Ottawa announced the funding and seven months after a contribution agreement was signed. The Clean Resource Innovation Network, which aims to produce the world’s cleanest hydrocarbons, plans to announce details of its planned three technology competitions by end of March 2021.

Canada can be a leader in plant-based foods if we take a coordinated approach

Canada is well-positioned to become a leader in meeting the growing global demand for plant-based foods and ingredients, but needs a coordinated effort to increase ingredient processing and food manufacturing in the country, Bill Grueul, CEO of the Protein Industries Canada supercluster, says in an op-ed.

Editorial: Canada's researchers are asking for a more ambitious innovation approach. Is Ottawa listening?

Researchers and businesses appear to be ready for more policy experimentation and leadership from the federal government after more than a year of lockdowns and economic disruption from COVID-19.

New federal budget could include funding for a quantum institute as global race for quantum tech heats up

When Budget 2021 drops on April 19, some of Canada’s quantum researchers and entrepreneurs will be holding their breath. That is because the Standing Committee on Finance published a budget recommendation in February urging the federal government to “financially support the establishment of a quantum computing research institute in the Toronto area, similar to the Vector Institute.”

The Short Report – March 24, 2021: Genome Canada creates data portal to address COVID-19 variants, Suncor invests US$25M in carbon capture tech, a national agriculture network, and more.

Genome Canada launches a SARS-CoV-2 data portal to consolidate variants of concern data in one place, Calgary’s Suncor Energy invests in carbon capture technology to offset GHG emissions, Government of Canada invests $185 million in an agricultural program to share best practices for storing carbon, and more.

Canadian universities part of international alliance working to integrate basic and applied research

The HIBAR Research Alliance, an international network of research leaders, is tackling the long-running debate over funding basic research versus applied research by integrating the best of both types of research. Highly Integrative Basic and Responsive (HIBAR) research builds upon excellence in basic research as well as excellence in application and social engagement.

NRCan's Digital Accelerator team applies big data and AI to answer policy questions

Natural Resources Canada’s Digital Accelerator—an in-house team of data scientists, business and policy experts dedicated to building data-driven software tools—is applying artificial intelligence across NRCan where it can have “breakthrough results.”

The Short Report – March 3, 2021: A report on inclusive innovation, an urban health research network, a potential DARPA for Canada, and more

The Brookfield Institute and the Munk School of Global Affairs produce an online tool to monitor data and analysis of Canada’s inclusive innovation system; U of T and Denmark’s Novo Nordisk A/S invest $40 million on supporting healthier urban populations and finding solutions for chronic illnesses, and more.

By the Numbers: CFI pours $518 million into 102 research projects across Canada

The Canada Foundation for Innovation announced more than half a billion dollars in funding last week for 35 institutions and 102 research projects across Canada. Here’s a breakdown of the funding.

New 10-year CIHR strategy focuses on health equity, Indigenous research and knowledge mobilization

The Canadian Institutes of Health Research has released a strategic plan that calls health equity “the most pressing health-related challenge in our country” and charts a course toward reducing health inequalities across Canada over the next decade. Researchers say inadequate funding and low success rates continue to be major problems, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 crisis, and also need to be addressed.

Brookfield innovation report shows Canada needs higher-quality data on equity, diversity and inclusion

Canada lacks the high-quality data that researchers need to understand how inclusive our economy is and its relationship to innovation, according to a report from the Brookfield Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. They found that data was especially lacking for Indigenous groups, the LGBTQ+ community and people with disabilities.

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What will it take for Canada to modernize its financial ecosystem?

Opinion Leader: Canada’s early focus on artificial intelligence is starting to reap commercial benefits

Policy change and more innovation needed to reap the benefits of industrial cannabis

National climate plan needs to focus on foundational public research and transformative Canadian technologies