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Joint R&D program aims to bolster Alberta economy |
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Ottawa-based Precarn Incorporated announced a $3 million funding boost to promote the research and development (R&D) efforts of Alberta companies applying intelligent systems to solve real world problems. The funding is being provided jointly by Precarn, the Alberta Ministry of Advanced Education and Technology, and Western Economic Diversification Canada.
Under the program, which is administered by Precarn – a not-for-profit company representing a national network of corporations, universities, colleges, research institutes and government partners engaged in the development of enabling technologies – Alberta companies are being asked to respond to a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the development or implementation of intelligent systems technologies. Up to $600,000 is available per project. With support from Precarn, project leaders of Alberta-based companies will have the opportunity to work not only with other Alberta research organizations, but also with research expertise from across Canada. The goal is to help organizations province-wide become more productive and globally competitive by working in collaborative teams to develop advanced technological solutions that meet industry needs.
“Precarn’s focus is on commercializing technologies with high market potential. This focus will help Alberta’s entrepreneurs to ramp up global sales by developing advanced technology solutions that are well-matched to customer needs,” says Doug Horner, Minister of Alberta Advanced Education and Technology.
“This partnership will enable Precarn to build on its solid track record of assisting early-stage businesses to commercialize cutting-edge technologies and maintain a competitive edge,” said the Honourable Rona Ambrose, President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of Western Economic Diversification. “The Government of Canada is proud to support western Canadian entrepreneurs and innovators in taking their ideas to the global market.”
Paul Johnston, President and CEO of Precarn, explained that “we are very pleased to be a partner with the Alberta Government and Western Economic Diversification in this collaborative program to support the research, development and application of advanced technologies as a means to build a solid economic foundation for Alberta and Canada. This partnership demonstrates Precarn’s commitment to expand its network through collaborative partnerships, and has allowed Precarn to open its first satellite office in Edmonton. We invite industry to participate in this call for proposals and look forward working with leading edge Alberta companies to contribute to Alberta's economy.”
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