The 2012 SME4SME Program Launches to a Full House at the University of Ottawa

It was standing room only at the University of Ottawa when Sean Flanigan, of the OTTN and University of Ottawa launched the 2012 round of the popular SME4SME program. Participants from the University of Ottawa research community, and Ottawa’s business community learned how they could access up to $100,000 in funding to work on research projects that will help grow Ontario’s economy.

Sean Flanigan launches the 2012 SME4SME program to a packed house

Last year, the SME4SME program provided funding to 15 research labs at the University of Ottawa to help small and medium sized enterprises of less than 1,000 employees solve a technical problem that was core to the enterprise. Projects in the past included developing a device that improves productivity for an infrastructure rehabilitation company, computer algorithms that improve telecommunication equipment, and chemicals with potential to extend the use of a medical research product  for new market applications. These project werte designed to help the partnering companies work to improve competitiveness in the global economy. Many of the projects are leading to further collaborations between the university and the industry partner.    

For 2012, OTTN is continuing its efforts to help researchers connect with companies who could benefit from the broad range of expertise available at the University of Ottawa. Projects will start as early as April 1^st, and must be complete by March 31, 2013. Funding to the university lab can be as high as $100,000, but is normally in the $35,000 – $50,000 range, with the industry partner contributing an equal amount in cash or in kind to the project. All intellectual property developed under this program will be owned by the company.

Companies and researchers looking to apply to this program can learn more and register at www.sme4sme.ca   The OTTN team will work to help registrants develop appropriate partnerships and strong proposals. If a company has not made a match with a researcher, OTTN will help make the connection.

Program Information:

Submission Deadline: May 31, 2012

Final Date for signing the SME4SME contract: June 30, 2012

 Program Website: www.sme4sme.ca

Program Contact: Sean Flanigan, Flanigan@uottawa.ca, (613) 562-5800 x2407