Science and Research committee  I mean funding that would allow us to develop capacity within the institution, and training, and also funding that would support companies to do marketing for their products.

Science and Research committee  Thank you for this question. Through you, Mr. Chair, what could be done in this case, I would suggest, is a greater emphasis on developing funding programs that support intellectual property development and commercialization. Allow the colleges to develop expertise in supporting our business partners to navigate the complex IP and commercialization pathways and then push innovation up the technology readiness scale.

Science and Research committee  One recommendation I give to the advisory council organization is to engage in a more extensive stakeholder engagement process: Work more closely with the college sector. There are over 120 post-secondary institutions across Canada, and it will be very beneficial for the advisory council if we are consulted on matters related to research funding and distribution of research funding, as well as about the development of new funding programs.

Science and Research committee  Through you, Mr. Chair, thank you for the question. On the request to increase the funding to 6%, I really appreciate the fact that you consider this modest. Most of my colleagues in applied research across different community colleges in Canada are suggesting a 5% increase. We decided to be bolder and suggest an additional 1% increase to account for additional funding for a challenge fund to address urgent needs in society, including affordable housing, mental health issues and other community health problems.

Science and Research committee  Good morning. I am pleased to be here to make the case for stronger funding for applied research at small post-secondary institutions like Loyalist College, which are deeply connected to their local communities. Our capacity to provide valuable solutions to economic, social, health and policy issues is largely dependent on timely access to tri-council and Canadian Foundation for Innovation funding.