Innovation Superclusters Initiative: Competition Bureau issues guidance for participating firms
News Release
What your firm needs to know about collaboration and the Competition Act
July 12, 2017 – OTTAWA, ON – Competition Bureau
The Competition Bureau issued guidance today to firms applying for funding under the Government of Canada’s Innovation Superclusters Initiative.
The guidance, entitled “Innovation Superclusters Initiative and the Competition Act,” clarifies that in the vast majority of cases, collaborative projects under the superclusters initiative will not raise competition concerns.
In fact, collaboration and partnerships can accelerate the pace of innovation and bring new products and processes to market, faster and cheaper. It can also enable organizations to combine technologies and resources, leading to the development of new and better products for the benefit of Canadians and the economy.
However, these collaborative activities must not be used to engage in cartel activity or anti-competitive agreements. To help businesses comply with the law, the guidance recommends a series of best practices, including the implementation of a corporate compliance program.
Quick Facts
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In May, the Government of Canada launched the Innovation Superclusters Initiative, a centrepiece of the Government’s Innovation and Skills Plan. Over the next five years, the Government will invest nearly $1 billion to support business-led innovation.
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To take part in the initiative, applicants must submit a letter of intent by July 21, 2017. From there, a shortlist of applicants will be invited to prepare a full application.
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To know more about competition and collaboration, firms seeking funding under the Canada’s Innovation Superclusters Initiative should consult the Competitor collaboration pamphlet and the Competitor Collaboration Guidelines.
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Additional information about the Act or the Bureau’s program of written opinions can be obtained by contacting the Bureau's Information Centre.
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