IP Development and Commercialization Successes

The overall goal of the CMPF is to help postsecondary institutions become more intentional in the generation, management, protection and commercialization of IP for the benefit of Ontario’s economy and long-term competitiveness.

For the purposes of this document, “IP development and commercialization success” is broadly defined as actions, activities and/or partnerships that can help further this goal, by:

• Improving IP capacity at postsecondary institutions through programming, training and information related to IP; and,
• Increasing commercialization opportunities for IP developed at or supported by the postsecondary institutions.

As identified in the Year 1 ACPs and summarized in IPON’s report, it is clear that while each institution has a unique starting point and capacity to undertake research, innovation, and commercialization activities, Ontario’s colleges and universities are making concerted efforts in their commitment to the objectives of the CMPF, regardless of whether this was previously an institutional focus. It is also evident that the sector is undertaking important work to maximize the value of the IP generated through Ontario-based research.

As noted earlier in this document, your institution is required to publish this section, supplementing the Year 1 ACP information your institution has already posted. The objective is to deepen understanding of the work underway, showcase success and inform best practices. The ministry understands that each institution will complete this section based on their own individual context, area of focus, strength, and progress and that “success” will be differently interpreted and defined on this basis.

Describe your institution’s greatest IP development and/or commercialization success over the Year 2 reporting period, whether it is through programmatic/policy development or a specific case study.

Cambrian College is still working towards capturing some tangible returns on IP development and/or commercialization over the Year 2 reporting period. We have continued to have success with our annual Student Innovation Challenge, which empowers students to pitch their business ideas for the chance to win cash prizes to help commercialize their business. Moreover, this past year, Cambrian has also announced the creation of a student-focused Entrepreneurship Hub, which will help students from across the program further develop business ideas through programming, mentorship, and resources. Beyond the commercialization mandate framework, Cambrian’s commercialization policy is currently under review, which will present further opportunities for the college to leverage resources and expertise to better understand and plan for IP development and commercialization at Cambrian.