Québec, Quebec, June 3, 2009 − The Minister of State for Canada Economic Development, the Honourable Denis Lebel, took part today in the announcement of a $12-million non-repayable contribution from the Government of Canada to the National Optics Institute (INO). This sum, paid under Canada Economic Development’s Business and Regional Growth program, will enable INO to implement its in-house research program and commercialize its research and development work worldwide.
The Minister of State is delighted with this new contribution to a jewel of Quebec’s knowledge economy. “INO has earned an enviable reputation in several fields,” stated Mr. Lebel. “In emphasizing applied research, the Institute is supporting entrepreneurial vitality in the regions of Quebec. Through its high-level work, it contributes significantly to Quebec’s outstanding scientific reputation, both in Canada and abroad. Finally, through its numerous achievements, it is the pride of Canadians.”
Different industrial and technical sectors will thus benefit from INO’s extensive knowhow. Indeed, the Institute’s research program is centered on families of leading-edge technologies (fibre optics, lasers, micromanufacturing and so on) and their commercial applications, in particular on defence and security, industrial processes, aerospace and astronomy, transportation equipment, optics and photonics, health and life sciences, and natural resources.
“In conjunction with the Laval University Centre for Optics, Photonics and Lasers (COPL) and Defence Research and Development Canada in Valcartier, INO brings internationally recognized expertise in optics and photonics to the City of Québec region. Together,” stated the Minister, “the players in this growth-generating sector account for more than 1,000 jobs in the region, and generate some $200 million in sales annually.”
In investing in INO, the Government of Canada is contributing to the growth of Canadian SMEs, which rely on government support to create and perfect the products and processes they will subsequently use to generate revenues and enhance their productivity.
The federal financial assistance is contingent upon compliance with the Government of Canada’s funding allocation process and the signing of a contribution agreement between Canada Economic Development and INO.
Guylaine Beaudoin
Communications
Canada Economic Development
Tel.: 418-648-4679
Cell: 418-580-8215
E-mail: guylaine.beaudoin@dec-ced.gc.ca
Éric Lefebvre
Senior Special Assistant, Communications
Office of the Honourable Denis Lebel
Canada Economic Development
Cell: 613-608-7906
E-mail: eric.lefebvre@dec-ced.gc.ca
