Research & Development Corporation of Newfoundland and Labrador
RDC. A Catalyst for Growth.

History

Recognizing the importance of research and development (R&D) to innovation, in 2008, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador set the stage for the establishment of the Research & Development Corporation (RDC) with the appointment of Glenn Janes as CEO. A small team was assembled to build the framework and define the role of the organization in support of R&D.

Extensive planning and research was conducted to build a strategy for improving R&D in the province. Consultation sessions were held with R&D stakeholders across Newfoundland and Labrador, in addition to a study of successful international research and development jurisdictions. The international study addressed two key areas:

  • a strategic assessment of existing R&D players, infrastructure and current activities in Newfoundland and Labrador and its future potential, and

  • a review and analysis of how other jurisdictions support the growth of R&D, best practices, and lessons learned

Conclusions from the stakeholder sessions and the international study indicated that RDC should be a non-governmental organization acting as a catalyst, coordinator and facilitator for R&D among stakeholders in industry, the federal and provincial governments, and academic institutions.

In December, 2008, The Research and Development Council Act was passed by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador establishing the Research & Development Corporation as an arms-length provincial Crown corporation with provision for an independent Board of Directors.

Since its launch, RDC has received an annual budget from the provincial legislature dedicated to R&D funding programs.