The provincial government has identified four broad priority areas for research and innovation in B.C. A special focus on these areas allows the province to build on existing strengths and create the conditions for future breakthroughs that will improve prosperity and quality of life.
The life sciences include health, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, biomedical technologies and biomedical devices. B.C. is the fastest growing biotechnology centre in Canada and the seventh largest in North America. The province is home to world-class research centres and some of Canada’s most successful life sciences.
Life sciences success stories
Technology
This priority research area includes information and communication technology, new media, wireless and emerging technologies. B.C.’s technology sector employs over 80,000 people and makes up 5.9 per cent of the province’s GDP. New technologies, developed and supported by this sector, play a leading role in the transformation to a knowledge-based economy.
Technology success stories
Clean technology
The area of clean technology includes alternative energy and sustainable technologies like biomass, fuel cells, hydrogen, renewable energies, low-energy transportation and green buildings. B.C. has an international reputation in clean technologies and environmental stewardship and is well-positioned to play a leading role in addressing the world’s energy and climate issues.
Clean technology success stories
Natural resources
Natural resources research includes innovations in forestry, agriculture, fishing, mining, oil and gas. Research in this sector helps to increase efficiency and find new processes to improve operations in the province’s traditional primary resource-based industries.
Natural resources success stories
As well as these four priority areas, government is also committed to building on British Columbia’s regional strengths through research and innovation.
