University of British Columbia receives over $8.8 million to drive innovation in life sciences and food processing

The Government of Canada is making investments that will help B.C. businesses grow locally and compete globally

August 14, 2024 – Vancouver, British Columbia – PacifiCan

British Columbia is home to the talent that is developing industry-leading products. That is why the Government of Canada is supporting collaboration between industry and academia, bringing more B.C.-made products to global markets.

Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $8.8 million in PacifiCan funding for two projects at the University of British Columbia (UBC).

UBC is receiving $5 million to establish the Biodevice Foundry and strengthen British Columbia’s position as a leader in life sciences. The Biodevice Foundry will provide growing companies with lab space, specialized equipment and training programs to develop and test their products. These products may include artificial organs and joints, or life-saving drug therapies.

UBC is also receiving over $3.8 million to establish a world-class Food and Beverage Innovation Centre. The Centre will bring food science experts and businesses together to develop innovative packaging, processing techniques, and products, helping B.C. food and beverage processors become more competitive in global markets. The Centre will also provide training for future food scientists and others working in the industry.

The investments announced today are expected to benefit more than 60 businesses and help create local jobs.