The federal government is committed to enabling Alberta’s small- and medium-sized businesses to capitalize on new opportunities and build on the region’s strengths in creating products and services that the world needs.
To demonstrate that commitment, Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) has announced an investment of more than $15.6 million for 16 projects across Alberta that are providing innovators access to specialized equipment and knowledge to test, refine, and commercialize their advanced products and technologies.
Projects are focused on a wide range of key economic sectors, including digital technology, advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and clean technology.
The investments through their Regional Innovation Ecosystems (RIE) program target not-for-profit organizations that support businesses in priority sectors to innovate, grow and compete globally and are expected to support more than 1,100 jobs.
Among the 16 investments is $269,927 for The A100 to increase awareness of and funding for existing tech companies in Alberta by enhancing the Start Alberta online platform, which connects tech companies and investors in the province and beyond.
In addition, Innovate Cochrane is receiving $953,180 to establish a new centre for innovation in the Town of Cochrane that will create opportunities for skilled employment and economic growth by delivering programming, events and advice to entrepreneurs and businesses in the Cochrane area.
Another recipient of PrairiesCan funding is InterGen. The mentor network will receive $1.4 million to provide a series of unique mentorship, educational and experiential programs connecting less experienced entrepreneurs with seasoned professionals to help digital technology businesses in Alberta expand into new markets, grow revenue and attract investors.
The University of Calgary is received the biggest cheque from this PrairiesCan funding round. The University is receiving $2,350,000 to establish the Canadian Cyber Assessment, Training and Experimentation (CATE) Centre, where researchers, students, entrepreneurs and businesses can test cybersecurity solutions and participate in cyberattack mitigation training leading to better protected and less vulnerable organizations.
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