PRESS RELEASE
Federal budget recognizes key role of colleges in innovation
TORONTO (June 6, 2011) – George Brown College applauds the 2011 federal budget, presented today, for its recognition of the critical role colleges play in advancing innovation through applied research and commercialization strategies. College-based research and development has had and continues to have a profoundly positive impact on the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Canada.
Budget 2011 contains three important elements that are a positive and direct response to industry recommendations, including:
- Supporting 30 new Industrial Research Chairs at polytechnics and colleges with $3 million in 2011 and $5 million annually on a permanent basis starting in 2012/13;
- Providing $80 million in new funding over three years to help SMEs accelerate their adoption of key information and communications technologies through collaborative projects with polytechnics and colleges; and
- Allocating $12 million over five years to support joint college-university commercialization projects.
- Announcing $60 million over the next three years to promote increased student enrolment in key disciplines related to the digital economy
In addition to the budget’s focus on innovation, the College also recognized the expanded eligibility for Canada Student Loans and Grants for part-time and full-time secondary students, with an investment of more than $34 million per year.
“This funding ultimately recognizes the critical role colleges play in contributing to the country’s economic growth,” said Anne Sado, president, George Brown College. “It is welcome news for students who participate in this research as it enhances learning experience and better prepares them for employment.
In 2009/2010, George Brown College engaged more than 350 students in applied research activities, and undertook 77 research projects with industry partners.
“These activities point to a growing industry demand for SMEs to partner with colleges in order to further develop their idea, often bringing them to market,” said Sado. “These partnerships result in innovations that help employers gain a competitive advantage while providing an invaluable, real life challenge for our students. It is a win-win situation for all.”
For more information or to book an interview, please contact:
Robyn Breslow
APEX Public Relations
(416) 924-4442 / ext. 253
rbreslow@apexpr.com
About George Brown College
Toronto’s George Brown College has established a reputation for equipping students with the skills, industry experience and credentials to pursue the careers of their choice. From its two main campuses located across the downtown core, George Brown offers 148 full-time and 1,600 continuing education programs across a wide variety of professions to a student body of approximately 63,000 (including those enrolled in full-time, part-time and continuing education programs). Students can earn diplomas, post-graduate certificates, industry accreditations, apprenticeships and four-year bachelor degrees.
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For more information, please contact:
Paul ZanettosMedia Relations Consultant
George Brown College
Office: 416-415-5000 ext. 3428
Mobile: 416-893-5435
pzanetto@georgebrown.ca