NWP Joins National Innovation Networks Through Major Research Grants
Wednesday, January 15th, 2025
Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) is proud to announce its participation in two major national research commercialization initiatives, totalling over $56 million in funding, that will enhance innovation and entrepreneurship across Canada.
“These timely investments will be catalysts for lasting research partnerships and tangible results across industries,” said Vanessa Sheane, NWP President and CEO. “We look forward to contributing to a productive research community where we can leverage knowledge from diverse collaborators and add value with our uniquely northern perspectives and solutions.”
The first initiative is a $32 million Lab2Market grant awarded to Dalhousie University, connecting over 45 post-secondary institutions and research centers. The second is a $24 million Lab to Market initiative led by Red River College Polytechnic, involving 38 post-secondary institutions.
Through hubs across Canada, the multidisciplinary networks will provide researchers with access to the tools, resources, and expertise they need to transfer scientific, social, and service innovation to market or to community users. This support includes digital resources to enhance awareness and knowledge of commercialization processes, mentorship and business coaching, financial assistance, and opportunities for collaboration and sharing best practices.
"Being part of these national initiatives positions Northwestern Polytechnic at the forefront of innovation and entrepreneurship," said Sivagowry Lewis, Dean of Applied Research and Innovation at Northwestern Polytechnic. "These collaborations will create new opportunities for our students, researchers, and regional partners while contributing to Canada's innovation landscape."
Both programs aim to strengthen Canada's innovation ecosystem by enhancing commercialization and entrepreneurship skills training for students, researchers, and highly qualified persons. The Lab2Market program is administered by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), in collaboration with CIHR and SSHRC.
The announcements were made by the Honourable Terry Duguid, Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, on behalf of the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. To learn more about Applied Research and Innovation at Northwestern Polytechnic, visit NWP.me/Research.
