Canada: Challenges and Models for Biotechnological Innovation. Tania M. Bubela, BSc, PhD, LLB School of Business, University of Alberta and the Centre for Intellectual Property Policy, McGill University Workshop on Intellectual Property, Biotechnology Capacity and Development, September 25-27, 2006

Problems Canada is lagging behind other countries in innovative development (OECD) Federalism: Split jurisdiction for Science and Technology Retention and Attraction of Highly Qualified Personnel (HQPs) Lack of Venture Capital

Approaches Models to enhance research collaboration and knowledge mobilization –Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCEs) –Genome Canada Model to enhance scientific infrastructure –Canadian Foundation for Innovation Model to enhance retention & recruitment –Canada Research Chairs

Approaches Models to Enhance Venture Capital –Genome Canada –Institutional Initiatives (technology parks, incubation facilities e.g., MaRS) –Provincial Initiatives (VRQ)

Lessons Learned NCE and Genome Canada models –Need better management of IP strategies –Lack of inter-institutional coordination –Need vision of purpose of commercialization strategies around IP (licensing vs spin-offs vs knowledge mobilization) –Need better metrics

Conclusions from CIPP study Create Canadian forum to address tech and knowledge transfer issues Develop a Canada-wide technology and knowledge transfer strategy, including model agreements Investigate ways to bridge funding gap Increase capacity in IP and tech and knowledge transfer