Knowledge Transfer

Maria Race of the UVic Genome B.C. Proteomics Centre

Researchers and students are taking their bright ideas to market. UVic's Innovation and Development Corporation (IDC) provides support, builds partnerships and arranges on-campus incubation space.

In 2005, IDC launched six new spin-off companies. They include:

• Sensific Technologies - develops electrochemical sensors;
• Green Building Exchange - an internet portal to support environmentally responsible building construction;
• Inspired Devices - commercializes devices developed for people with disabilities by the UVic Assistive Technology Team.

UVic owns more technology transfer space than any other BC university. Once start-up companies have outgrown our incubation space, they can move to UVic's Vancouver Island Technology Park (VITP).

VITP is the gateway to the region's high-tech community. It has the greatest concentration of high-tech companies and workers on Vancouver Island. The 28 businesses at the park employ 1,300 people and contribute $280 million annually to BC's economy.

Many of the VITP tenants employ UVic graduates and co-op students. They can continue to rely on the university's knowledge and support by virtue of thier location. At the same time, they create synergies and partner with industry.