Unlocking Tech Innovation: The Role of Technology Access Centres in Canada's Competitive Edge

Shift by Alberta Innovates

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Discover a hidden engine powering Alberta's tech innovation as we sit down with Ken Doyle, Executive Director of Tech-Access Canada. Uncover the world of Technology Access Centres (TACs), where Alberta's entrepreneurs transform bold ideas into tangible advancements. Ken shares how these specialized R&D hubs offer invaluable support to small and medium-sized enterprises, providing access to state-of-the-art facilities and expertise that help refine prototypes and boost productivity. Get an insider's look at how TACs are crucial in overcoming Canada's productivity hurdles, emphasizing the need for expanded capacity to sustain Alberta's edge in the competitive tech landscape.
From their exponential growth to 67 centers in a decade to their collaborative efforts with Alberta's Regional Innovation Networks and Colleges and Polytechnics, Technology Access Centres operate within Technology Readiness Levels four to eight, bridging critical gaps in applied R&D. Ken highlights inspiring stories of companies that have excelled with TAC support, like those enhancing solar panel efficiency and pioneering nanobubble disinfectant systems. These examples showcase the bespoke nature of TAC engagements and their vital role in enabling tech entrepreneurs to compete globally.
Explore Canada's road to technological leadership and the trends that will shape its future. Our discussion highlights the critical need to lower innovation barriers, bridging the commercialization "valley of death." From AI to renewable energy, Ken emphasizes the promise of Canada's unique industrial landscape in leading value-added processes. The conversation also brings to light the importance of sustainability and the circular economy, drawing lessons from Quebec's pioneering efforts. This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of tech innovation and the pivotal role TACs play in driving national and provincial competitiveness.

Shift by Alberta Innovates focuses on the people, businesses and organizations that are contributing to Alberta's strong tech ecosystem.

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1. Innovating Alberta's Tech Ecosystem (00:00:00)

2. Enhancing Alberta's Tech Innovation (00:04:51)

3. Expanding Canada's Innovation Ecosystem (00:18:15)

4. Driving Innovation for Canadian Competitiveness (00:25:09)

5. Driving Alberta's Innovation Excellence (00:33:41)