NDP MLA Katrine Conroy says new grants support research that will improve people’s lives and drive innovation
CASTLEGAR – New Democrat MLA Katrine Conroy says that new research funding for Selkirk College will improve the lives of people by advancing innovation in manufacturing and regional economic development.
“We have a lot of bright minds here in the Kootenays and by helping them work together, more people will be able to experience and take joy in their work” said Katrine Conroy, MLA for Kootenay West. “Not only will this help grow our local economy, it will reduce the carbon footprint of products making their way to stores, reducing emissions and helping our environment.”
Selkirk College is receiving $261,256 as part of the BC Knowledge Development Fund (BCKDF), to help fund the following research project:
- Selkirk Technology Access Centre – Advanced Manufacturing Industry Collaboration
Researcher: Terri MacDonald
The centre will support regional economic development by providing local companies with access to hard-to-come-by technology to help them become more innovative and competitive. The centre will increase rapid prototyping capacity for the region’s pool of designers, engineers and entrepreneurs reducing the volume of items travelling by freight to the West Kootenay, reducing the associated greenhouse gas emissions and time required.
This is part of an investment in research projects at B.C. universities in fields like health, natural resources, and technology. Since 2017, the BCKDF has awarded more than $200 million to 430 projects.
The BCKDF helps grow the economy by improving B.C.’s productivity and competitiveness – a key objective of B.C.’s Economic Plan. Along with the potential for commercialization, spinoffs and patents, this research helps us discover new ways to manage our environment and improve the health and well-being of British Columbians.
Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023JEDI0050-001301