The Labrador Institute received a boost today from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

The federal department invested $1.6 million through the Innovative Communities Fund in support of the Labrador Institute’s research plan. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador previously announced its investment of $490,720 through the Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development.

This funding will enable phase three of the long-term research plan for the Labrador Institute. Over the next three years, researchers will focus primarily on industry-relevant research in industrial sectors like mining, energy, fishing, and agriculture.

“The Government of Canada believes that public investment is an important catalyst that spurs economic growth, job creation and broad-based prosperity,” said Yvonne Jones, member of parliament, Labrador. “Our investment in the Labrador Institute’s research plan will ensure that industry and community have access to the appropriate academic expertise, resources and equipment to help them focus on sustainable economic development.”

Research will aim to increase economic activity and create opportunities for commercialization of several research projects in these and other emerging sectors in Labrador.  The institute will also engage a commercialization and industry liaison officer to expand the relationship between researchers, industry stakeholders and community organizations; as well as a laboratory technician to support laboratory services and potential commercialization of research.

“The Labrador Institute is delighted to receive this very substantial funding from the federal government, which will combine with the province’s and the university’s contributions to strengthen and sustain our research programs here,” said Dr. Martha MacDonald, acting director of the Labrador Institute. “Having highly qualified researchers live as well as work in Labrador was a goal we achieved in phase two of our project, and we look forward to this next stage, where the engagement of new personnel to promote commercialization opportunities and manage our expanding lab facilities will enhance the present work for the benefit of Labrador.  We greatly appreciate the support of government in this important initiative.”

The announcement took place in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. In addition to the funding for the Labrador Institute, Healthy Waters Inc. received support o transform Birch Island in the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay into a conservation and interpretive area for eco-tourism purposes.