Engage, a new conference on innovation and collaboration, has issued the following press release:
Engage Conference To Be Held Nov. 17-18 in Halifax
New conference to demonstrate how research and development partnerships between universities and entrepreneurs will result in economic growth and improved university education
Halifax, Nova Scotia - A new Halifax event will show how partnerships between Atlantic Canadian universities and entrepreneurs can drive economic growth in the region and improve the learning experience for university students who study here.
The Engage 2014 Innovation and Commercialization Conference will take place on November 17th and 18th, 2014 In Halifax. This event will provide hands-on workshops and interactive presentations to help business students and entrepreneurs understand how the world-class research and development resources at Atlantic Canadian universities can help them create successful companies.
“Atlantic Canada has an abundance of world-class research and talented entrepreneurs,” said Mark Taylor, Founder of Engage. “We want to take the connection between our universities and entrepreneurs to the next level so that our economy will prosper for many years to come.”
Despite facing economic challenges, Atlantic Canada has experienced significant growth in business startups. The region saw 67 new businesses created in 2013 alone, according to a report done by Entrevestor.com
The growth in startups is creating jobs in the region and attracting much needed capital. For example, the same report indicated that venture capital investment in the region rose to $30.8 million in 2013 from $23 million in 2012 while payroll rose by 44% to $75.8 million. However, a C.D. Howe Institute reports that much of the $11 billion a year post-secondary institutions in Canada spend on research does not result in a product or service that comes to market. To that end, Atlantic Canada has a lot research that could result in new businesses, empowered local enterprises and improved education experiences.
Engage 2014 will help by offering an ambitious agenda and trade show. Speakers include successful businesspeople such as Clearwater Fine Foods President John Risley, academic leaders, global thinkers and investors. These individuals will take part in interactive discussions with the audience about variety of topics ranging from research and development to successful global marketing and sales. Discussions will also include information on organizations available to assist entrepreneurs and researchers looking to commercialize research.
“Entrepreneurs and researchers are looking for the best information and contacts to help them pursue their passion,” said Taylor. “Engage will show them how to bring an idea from concept to a globally success story using the wonderful research and development resources we have in our own backyard.”
More information about Engage 2014 can be found at http://www.engagehalifax.com
Engage is supported by Springboard Atlantic, the National Research Council, St. Mary’s University, Innovacorp, Dalhousie University, the University of Prince Edward Island, Acadia University and the University of New Brunswick.
Tickets for the event are available here.
