Monday, July 26, 2010, Calgary, Alberta – SAIT Polytechnic welcomes today’s announcement by the Government of Canada to support a new college fund through the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI). The new initiative, launched in Ontario by Minister Gary Goodyear, makes $32.5 million available to colleges, institutes and polytechnics for research equipment and infrastructure. Recognizing that colleges and polytechnics support private sector innovation differently than universities, the CFI will launch one or more competitions by December 2010.

“The research we do as a polytechnic is unique in that we work directly with small and medium-sized enterprises to help them develop innovative solutions for success in the marketplace,” said Irene Lewis, President and CEO, SAIT Polytechnic. “Today’s announcement will help ensure that polytechnics have the right infrastructure to foster technology and commercialization that will create jobs and strengthen the economy.”

Funding for the new program will be drawn from a $600-million investment announced by the Government of Canada as part of Canada's Economic Action Plan. The funding will ensure that the CFI continues to carry out its mandate in 2012 and beyond, promoting research excellence, while continuing to improve Canada's long-term competitiveness and the quality of life of Canadians.

SAIT Polytechnic is one of Canada’s most exciting destinations for post-secondary education, offering more than 100 career programs that position people for success in technology, trades and business. A leader in innovation, SAIT also collaborates with industry on applied research and delivers corporate training worldwide. SAIT is a member of Polytechnics Canada and one of Alberta’s Top 50 Employers for 2011.

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