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The Economic Impact of Applied Research at Canada’s Polytechnics

August 6, 2024 | 2.23MB | Download pdf >

Polytechnics Canada has worked with economists at Prism Economics and Analysis to study the economic and social impacts of applied research underway at our member institutions. Along with datasets drawn from NSERC, Statistics Canada and our own annual surveys, principal investigators and business partners provided information about the value derived from applied research collaborations. The report includes 30 case studies, showcasing projects driving market innovation, technology adoption, environmental impact or improved health and wellness.

Key takeaways include:

Every dollar invested in polytechnic applied research generates a return on investment from a low estimate of $8.09 to a high of $18.49
As a result of applied research collaborations, 51 per cent of project partners reported increased R&D capability, 48 per cent achieved improved competitiveness and 12 per cent said they created new jobs
More than 85 per cent of applied research partners are small- or mid-sized organizations – a group that faces unique barriers to investing in R&D. Among the barriers identified are a shortage of technical staff, lack of facilities, capital constraints and regulatory burden

Transnational cooperation beyond the European Higher Education Area

By Sarah Watts-Rynard | July 3, 2024 | Originally featured in EURASHE

Against a backdrop of discussion largely focused on European Universities Alliances, a panel made up of Preeti Nair (India), David Ross (Canada) and Ahmed Samy (UAE) provided interesting insights about opportunities for transnational cooperation with those outside Europe.

Moderated by Hilligje van’t Land of the International Association of Universities, discussion reflected optimism that applied post-secondary education is increasingly being recognized by governments and industry partners as an essential part of global advanced education systems. While this attention draws partners and funding to universities of applied science and polytechnics, it also challenges institutions to stay ahead in an environment of rapid technological change and societal transformation.

In Canada’s housing crisis, skilled tradespeople as essential as blueprints. Here’s how Ottawa can grow their numbers

By Piers Young | February 11, 2024 | Originally featured in the Toronto Star

Canada is facing its worst housing affordability crisis in decades, putting home ownership out of reach for many young people looking to get a foothold in the market.

Despite federal investments designed to boost housing supply and expedite building approvals, the need for millions of new homes comes with additional challenges. At least as urgent as freeing up land and issuing building permits is the need for skilled tradespeople able to turn blueprints into bathrooms and concepts into kitchens.

Adopting clean technology is a skills issue

By Alyssa Buttineau | December 11, 2023 | Originally featured in The Hill Times

The urgency of climate change action is no longer theoretical. Worldwide, fires, floods and extreme heat have made it clear that we have a major global challenge on our hands.

Among the solutions, Canada should be all-in on clean technology adoption. While renewables are increasingly viable and tax levers have proven to influence company and consumer behaviour, clean tech offers immediate-term benefits that are critical to achieving climate wins.

Humber College uses digital twins to make buildings smarter

By Wallace Immen | September 28, 2023 | Originally featured in The Globe and Mail

On a scorching summer day at Toronto’s Humber College, a smart system precools buildings in the early morning to avoid the afternoon spike in electrical rates at peak demand time. Another system turns on lights in rooms only when people are using them. And when the weather is cold, heat pumps have learned to redirect heat from crowded spaces on campus to other buildings that can use some warming.

Since 2014, Humber College facilities have grown by 25 per cent, yet the school’s use of smart controls as well as energy-efficiency initiatives and retrofits has reduced energy use per square foot by more than 20 per cent.