CIHR's Innovation and Industry Programs are designed to help the academic community interact with Canadian companies with an interest in health research and development. The programs promote a variety of peer-reviewed research and training projects jointly funded by Canadian companies and CIHR. The research undertaken, at eligible institutions under the leadership of a principal applicant who is affiliated with the institution, is based on research excellence focused on ultimately improving the quality of health of Canadians.
The two main arms to CIHR's Innovation and Industry Programs include: the CIHR/Rx&D Collaborative Research Program; and the CIHR/SME (Small and Medium Enterprise) Research Program.
The CIHR/Rx&D Collaborative Research Program is inspired by the longstanding successful collaboration between the pharmaceutical research industry and CIHR. Under this program, the eligible company partner is a member of Canada 's Research-Based Pharmaceutical Companies (Rx&D). The Program promotes peer-reviewed research and enhances the training and development of health research personnel and opportunities in Canada. The Program is designed to enable scientists, clinicians and members of the full spectrum of health professionals, and Rx&D members to optimize their access to the unique opportunities and advantages offered by CIHR's translational research opportunities, including clinical research. The collaboration will better enable CIHR and Rx&D to maximize the impact of clinical and translational research in Canada in order to contribute to the health of Canadians, better delivery of health research and services as well as contribute to the economy of Canada and the world.
The CIHR/SME (Small and Medium Enterprise) Research Program is a partnership between CIHR and biotechnology companies. It encourages, stimulates and enables health research programs of start-ups, university spin-offs and SMEs. This program contributes to the establishment and strengthening of the SME research and industry environment, strengthens IP portfolios and improves opportunities to better address health challenges through Canadian discovery and innovation processes and encourages company growth and development in Canada.
