SWGC recognizes that its prosperity depends on maintaining an environment characterized by learning, challenges, and creativity. To develop, compete and achieve excellence, SWGC has committed to enhancing its research capacity. The Associate Vice-Principal (Research) position of Grenfell provides direction and fosters research activities under the following key goals: 
 
Strategic Direction: Develop a robust research agenda built on excellence and high ethical standards aligned with the strategic plans of Sir Wilfred Grenfell College and Memorial University.
 
Goal 1: promote and expand research in response to the knowledge economy, global issues, and Canada’s innovation agenda
 
Goal 2: promote a disciplinary and interdisciplinary research agenda that capitalizes on opportunities to respond to environmental, social and cultural issues in Newfoundland
 
Goal 3: initiate and foster partnerships and alliances that advance Grenfell’s research agenda in support of communities
 
Goal 4: foster the application of research results to practitioners, policy makers, industry and the public
 
Goal 5: enhance Grenfell’s visibility through excellence in research
 
The Research Office is designed to assist with the identification of research funding sources and with the grant application process. It also assists with the proposal review process and acts as a liaison between SWGC and the Research Office, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's.
 
The Applied Research Unit was established in 1997 as a single point of contact for businesses, organizations, and individuals within the larger community interested in utilizing the expertise, services or resources of Sir Wilfred Grenfell College in Corner Brook.