Grant: CCI Mobilize Grants

Georgian College (Georgian) is the primary postsecondary institution serving Central Ontario and the surrounding regions. Its seven campus locations (Barrie; Orillia; Owen Sound; South Georgian Bay; Midland; Bracebridge; Orangeville) serve Simcoe, Grey, Bruce, and Dufferin Counties, the District of Muskoka, and the Municipality of York). Georgian’s applied research program is organized under four main pillars that are built on College expertise and regional industry demand: 1) The Competitive Smart Manufacturing pillar offers expertise and innovation services to companies looking to harness advanced manufacturing and/or Industry 4.0 tools and approaches, including automation, sensors, and artificial intelligence (AI); 2) the Digital Advantage and Immersive Technology pillar supports companies from a wide range of sectors (e.g., retail, tourism, food, service, construction) aiding them with digital transformation, digital adoption, modernized sales approaches, automation, AI, and XR; 3) The Sustainable Utilities pillar supports companies from several important sectors in our region who are seeking STEM & trades talent and research expertise in electric vehicles, renewable energy, GHG management, energy management and training (e.g. nuclear industry); and 4) the Thriving Communities pillar directly addresses the needs of central Ontario’s massive health and wellness industry, and a growing need for social innovation. With NSERC Mobilize funding, Georgian will deliver and grow project capacity across all four applied research pillars. Funds will support the direct cost of research projects including, but not limited to, salaries for student and new graduates, faculty release time, and some project expenses. Along with industry contributions, college investments and other grant funding (to be secured), the five-year proposed program will engage up to 391 students, 70 new graduates hired to work on applied research projects, 14 full-time faculty members, and up to 14 part-time faculty members in applied research projects with over 180 industry partners, 12-15 not for profit companies, and four health centres. Funding will enable Georgian to expand capacity with dedicated researchers, research assistance, technical expertise, and important equipment and resources. Mobilize funding will also allow Georgian to explore emerging areas of applied research, in which Georgian has significant expertise and high potential for industry/community partners.