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 the 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.
More recently, the focus has been on finalizing the program architecture through which the RDC will support R&D activities and capacity building. In Budget 2009, the RDC was provided $25 million for its first year of operations, including responsibility for the Industrial Research and Innovation Fund (IRIF). New programs are also being launched in support of industry-led and collaborative R&D.
For more information about the RDC's funding programs, click here.
