August 27, 2014, Brandon, Manitoba – The Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council
The Honourable Ed Holder, Minister of State (Science and Technology) was at the Brandon University today to announce an investment of $44 million to support social sciences and humanities researchers at postsecondary institutions across Canada. Administered by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), the Partnership Grants and Partnership Development Grants will support new research collaboration among private, public and not-for-profit sectors on issues that will advance our understanding of people and society.
Brandon University received one of 14 Partnership Grants for its Rural Policy Learning Commons initiative. Led by Dr. William Reimer, adjunct professor at Brandon University, this project involves multiple Canadian and international co-applicants, collaborators and academic, government and NGO partners. Together, international experts, scholars and policy-makers will aim to help improve the social and economic well-being of rural and northern regions in Canada. The project will employ distance learning activities, social media, publications, and a digital information hub to share information and strengthen collaboration between experts and communities, while training Canada’s next generation of researchers and leaders.
Another example of a SSHRC research project, Strengthening Rural Communities, has brought together university experts, business students and entrepreneurs. This Partnership Development Grant supports community development organizations and governments to develop new revenue streams, create marketing strategies, and transform traditional industries. From the creative economy and tourism to green energy and sustainable agriculture, this project is strengthening local economies, creating new jobs and building a new future for Canada’s rural communities.
