NRC IRAP and Innovate BC invest in British Columbia cleantech businesses through BC Fast Pilot program
News release
Funding will help 13 B.C. companies pilot technology that will support the development of a more sustainable, inclusive and innovative B.C. economy
December 4, 2023 – Vancouver, B.C. – National Research Council of Canada
Canadian cleantech companies play a pivotal role in driving innovation in support of Canada’s climate change goals. Supporting their important work is crucial to helping position Canada competitively in the global market for clean technologies and creating a sustainable future for all Canadians.
The National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP) and Innovate BC are providing a combined total of $2,014,425 in research and development funding to 13 companies in British Columbia piloting cleantech projects as part of efforts to support the development of a greener B.C. and bolster the province’s cleantech sector. This funding is supported through the BC Fast Pilot rogram, a joint initiative between NRC IRAP and Innovate BC.
The BC Fast Pilot program helps small and medium-sized businesses design, build and operate a pilot plant or small demonstration of their technology in real-world conditions. The program allows B.C. technology companies to demonstrate the impact of their product, measure the value of their solution and encourage customer adoption. For customers, the program offers a way to minimize some of the risk that traditional industries encounter when adopting new technologies.
Quotes
“Our government understands that to grow a sustainable and competitive economy we need innovation and investments in clean technology. To build a greener Canada, NRC IRAP is helping small and medium-sized businesses fully leverage the technologies they are developing and take their ideas to market. By investing in British Columbia innovators, we are investing in a thriving, sustainable, and inclusive economy for all Canadians.”
– The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
“We are supporting innovative technology that has the capability to create a more sustainable and green economy. BC Fast Pilot allows small businesses the ability to accelerate their development process, resulting in a rapid growth in our clean tech sector that benefits both our economy and our environment.”
– The Honourable Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation
“Our partnership with Innovate BC is enabling companies to demonstrate the value and reliability of their technology in real world applications, helping minimize risks and ultimately encourage customer adoption. We are thrilled to support these innovative Canadian companies and help them bring their ideas to life.”
– Iain Stewart, President, National Research Council of Canada
“The BC Fast Pilot program isn't just about driving innovation; it's about shaping the future we want to leave for generations to come. By funding these projects, we're not just backing promising businesses; we're investing in a sustainable and inclusive world for future generations.“
– Tomica Divic, Interim President and CEO, Innovate BC
Quick facts
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This is the fifth round of funding through the BC Fast Pilot program which launched in 2019.
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Successful projects receive up to $200,000 in research and development funding to demonstrate the impact of their product, measure the value of their solution and encourage customer adoption.
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Since 2019, 75 pilot demonstrations have been funded worth a combined total of $9.9 million. Notable outcomes include the creation of 117 jobs, the acquisition of 136 new customers and an increase of more than $23.5 million in new revenue for participating projects.
Associated links
Contacts
Audrey Champoux
Press Secretary and Senior Communications Advisor
Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development
audrey.champoux@ised-isde.gc.ca
Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
media@ised-isde.gc.ca
Media Relations
National Research Council of Canada
613-991-1431
1-855-282-1637
media@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Nicole Brzovic
Innovate BC
604-602-5209
nbrzovic@innovatebc.ca
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