The PacifiCan funding will provide local businesses with access to 3D printing technology, help them scale-up their operations and create jobs
Throughout British Columbia, innovative organizations and businesses are propelling the economy forward. PacifiCan's vision is enduring prosperity for all British Columbians and we are partnering with forward-thinking entrepreneurs and innovators who share this ambition.
Burnaby is a hub for companies innovating in sectors such as biotechnology, life sciences, alternative energy, and clean technology. That is why today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan) and the Honourable Terry Beech, Minister of Citizens' Services announced funding of over $20.8 million to seven Burnaby-based businesses and organizations in life sciences, manufacturing, and technology. This funding will help the recipients commercialize new products, acquire advanced technologies and increase sales.
Minister Sajjan and Minister Beech announced the funding at the British Columbia Institute for Technology's (BCIT) Centre for Applied Research and Innovation. While they were at BCIT, the Ministers announced support of over $1.9 million for BCIT to establish AAMTECH, a 3D printing advanced additive manufacturing prototyping hub. 3D printing creates a three dimensional object layer-by-layer using a computer created design. However, the high cost to acquire and operate this equipment is a barrier for businesses looking to develop and commercialize new concepts.
This project will provide local small- and medium-sized enterprises with access to state-of-the-art technology and expertise that will allow them to print prototypes with a wide variety of materials including advanced composites, metals, foods and bio-manufacturing, using advanced 3D printing technology. This hub will support an estimated 60 businesses, help bring 90 products or services to market and provide training opportunities.
The Ministers also announced funding of over $4.7 million to Garibaldi Glass Industries Inc. to help them meet increased demand for their products by adding a second production line and purchasing advanced equipment. Garibaldi Glass supplies glass solutions to meet various glazing needs. With this added capacity, Garibaldi Glass will be able to expand into new markets, create 60 jobs and increase revenues.
More details about the other organizations and businesses receiving funding can be found in the backgrounder here.
This funding is being provided through three PacifiCan programs: the Regional Innovation Ecosystems program, Business Scale-up and Productivity program, and the Jobs and Growth Fund. These programs are supporting advanced manufacturing, digital technology, clean technology and business growth.
It is expected that this funding will generate 284 jobs.
