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B.C. invests in research and innovation

Last updated on June 7, 2022

An innovative economy is a priority of the B.C. government. This page provides examples of research and innovation organizations, funds, and education centres B.C. has invested in.

Last updated: June 7, 2022

Research investments 

B.C. Knowledge Development Fund (BCKDF)

The BCKDF is the B.C. government’s major research infrastructure funding program. Project costs are shared between BCKDF and the Canada Foundation for Innovation.

The province awarded over $858 million since the program’s inception in 1998.

Genome BC

Genome BC invests in and manages large-scale genomics and proteomics research projects. Projects focus on areas like:

  • Health
  • Forestry
  • Fisheries
  • Agriculture
  • The environment
  • Ethics

Since 2000, the province provided over $365.5 million in funding.

Geoscience BC

Geoscience BC is a not-for-profit society. It generates independent, public geoscience research and data about B.C.’s minerals, energy, and water resources. It collaborates with:

  • Resource sectors
  • Academia
  • Communities 
  • Indigenous groups
  • Government

The province committed over $59 million since Geoscience BC started in 2005.

Innovate BC 

Innovate BC helps innovators in B.C. launch their ideas and connect with experts to help grow their businesses. It connects innovators with funding, tools, resources, and support.

The province has committed over $162 million since 2004.

Mathematics of Information Technology and Complex Systems (Mitacs)

Mitacs supports research and development in Canada and abroad. It connects industry with academia. Mitacs supports the sector through internships.

Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research (MSHRBC)

The MSHRBC organization helps develop B.C. health research talent, co-funds researchers, and advances the use of research to improve health.

Since inception in 2001, the province committed over $654 million to MSHRBC.

Quantum Algorithms Institute (QAI)

The QAI aims to help secure B.C.’s position as a global leader in the application of quantum computing technology to real-world problems.

In 2019, the province committed $17 million for five years.

TRIUMF

TRIUMF is Canada's particle accelerator centre supporting seven universities. It pushed boundaries in nuclear and particle physics research to advance:

  • Science
  • Medicine
  • Business