This release was issued under a previous government.

Researchers work with samples at a post-secondary lab in Edmonton, Alberta

With applied research capability in more than 250 programs and above 90 percent employment for many Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) graduates, this government’s investments in building an innovation culture clearly starts in Alberta’s post-secondary institutions.

Budget 2014 demonstrates the Alberta Government’s ability to follow-through on important long-term priorities like innovation that will shape the province’s future.

“I was pleased to have an opportunity to talk to students, staff and the business community at NAIT today about the importance of investing in research and innovation. Alberta’s polytechnic post-secondary institutions are tops in the country, and Budget 2014 investments in applied research are paying off for students, industry and Alberta’s economy.”

Doug Horner, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance

Government’s commitment to research and innovation:

  • $203 million in Budget 2014 through Innovation and Advanced Education for applied research, science and technology initiatives including Alberta Innovates and innovation service providers.
    • This funding also includes $70 million for other investments, such as research grants to Campus Alberta, strategic investments in technology development and commercialization capacity.
  • In 2012-13 more than $800 million was invested overall by Alberta Government ministries in research and innovation.
  • Alberta’s Research Capacity Program, between 2000 and 2012, leveraged $253 million in Alberta government support with federal government and other sources into $1 billion invested in post-secondary research programs.

Applied research investments support economic growth and diversification in priority areas including health, energy and the environment, information and communications technology and biotechnology.

Support for applied research attracts talented researchers to Alberta’s post-secondary institutions, provides technology and business supports to start-up companies and entrepreneurs and has produced partnerships with global technology companies like GE and Siemens.

Under the Building Alberta Plan, our government is investing in families and communities, living within our means, and opening new markets for Alberta's resources to ensure we're able to fund the services Albertans told us matter most to them. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.