OBIO to invest nearly $10 million in advanced tech

TORONTO – The Ontario government is investing up to $9.7 million to support a project by the Ontario Bioscience Innovation Organization (OBIO) that will help Ontario companies in the life sciences sector adopt and develop critical technologies, such as 5G, ethical artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, cybersecurity, quantum and robotics. These critical technologies will improve the sector’s competitiveness worldwide and ensure that Ontario remains a leader in life sciences innovation.

OBIO, a not-for-profit organization representing the life sciences sector, will receive up to $9.7 million through the province’s Critical Technology Initiatives program to launch a new Life Sciences Critical Technologies & Commercialization Centre of Excellence. The centre of excellence will work with eight partner organizations to provide small and medium-sized businesses in the life sciences sector with the tools and resources they need to adopt, develop and bring to market critical technologies. Funds will also be used to support 5G living labs – specialty testing environments with 5G infrastructure.

“We are grateful for this new funding, which will enable us to support companies through the adoption, development and commercialization of critical technologies, a key driver for the Ontario life sciences sector,” said Maura Campbell (pictured), president and CEO of OBIO. “We look forward to working with our partners to launch the Life Sciences Critical Technologies & Commercialization Centre of Excellence, ensuring that Ontario-made technology companies are supported in the province to become international market leaders.”

The province’s $107 million Critical Technology Initiatives funding supports programs led by not-for-profit organizations that will accelerate the use of critical technologies by Ontario companies and enable the development and adoption of innovative made-in-Ontario solutions. Critical technologies will help Ontario companies increase productivity, open new revenue streams, create highly skilled jobs and enhance global competitiveness.

“Our government continues to invest in Ontario’s emerging life sciences sector and leverage the innovation happening right here in our province,” said Sylvia Jones, deputy premier and minister of Health. “By supporting this growing and leading industry, the outcomes will pay dividends to Ontarians and our healthcare system for years to come.”