News Releases

• Investments Supporting New Product Development and Innovative Solutions in Manitoba

  

  Investments Supporting New Product Development and Innovative Solutions in Manitoba

  Over $600K Invested in Research Funding for Six New Innovation Proof-of -Concept (IPoC) Grants.

  Wednesday, March 1, 2023 – Winnipeg, Manitoba. Today Research Manitoba announces a total investment of $649,186.12 (over two years) in research funding to support six new Innovation Proof-of-Concept (IPoC) Grants. Research Manitoba’s investment will support Manitoba-based projects in the areas of; Biosciences (3 projects), Information and Communications Technology (2 projects), and Advanced Manufacturing (1 project) and leverage $50,000.00 (over two years).

  The IPoC Grant aims to strengthen Manitoba-based research innovation and development projects, by filling a funding gap in the Manitoba innovation ecosystem.

  “Our government is proud to support the Innovation Proof-of-Concept (IPoC) Grants, which will assist entrepreneurs with the design of new products and create innovative solutions right here in Manitoba. These Manitoba-Based projects from the fields of Biosciences, Information and Communications Technology, and Advanced Manufacturing will help in the creation of new local job opportunities and future economic growth”, said Jeff Wharton, Minister of Economic Development. Investment and Trade.

  Through two independent streams, this program provides funding, which is not otherwise accessible, to progress innovative research toward commercialization.

  • IPoC Stream 1: Manitoba-Based Consortium of academic research and local companies to support collaboration that is addressing a company-specific discovery or innovation toward market usability. This stream allows academics to use their world-class knowledge, facilities, and highly qualified personnel to close the knowledge gaps identified during the industry partner’s innovation development.
  • IPoC Stream 2: Manitoba Post-Secondary Researchers support the advancement of discoveries or innovations within an academic setting, which may result in products or technologies, towards market usability. These projects engage post-secondary students, giving them skills and opportunities to contribute to innovative solutions.

  “Funds from this program help support activities directly related to process validation and proof-of-concept development. This research funding fosters research innovation, economic development, and the commercialization of products, through the movement of innovations from ideas to market usability.  We are pleased to support Manitoba researchers in pursuing innovative solutions to address problems and create new opportunities. Supporting Manitoba-made research and development is an important investment for our province”, said Karen Dunlop, CEO, Research Manitoba.

  Recipient for Stream 1: Manitoba-Based Consortium

  1.Academic Institution: University of Manitoba

  • • Industry Partners: Canukshuk Animal Science
    • Project Title: Using AI to optimize drying schedules to convert freshwater fish wastes into high-value-added pet treats for global export markets
    • Area: Information and Communications Technology
    • Research Manitoba: $100,000 over 2 years
    • Leveraged funds: $50,000 over 2 years

  Canukshuk is developing an innovative true-net-zero manufacturing plant in Gimli, Manitoba that is food-grade certified that converts fish wastes and by-catch obtained from Lake Winnipeg freshwater fisheries into pet treats for international markets.

  The recent 7 million investments into this innovation will see a shipment of product in early 2023. One component of this innovation that convert wastes into an exportable product is however still missing: a dryer optimizing tool.

  The University of Manitoba will work with Canukshuk to develop the dryer optimization tool by selecting the neural network model, training the neural network using synthetic and measured process data, testing the tool, and update drying schedules. This tool will use machine learning to determine the optimal drying schedule based on input parameters that include fish piece sizes and distribution; fish species characteristics like fat content, moisture content, flesh, or organs; frozen or unfrozen; pasteurization time with temperature requirement; and maximum moisture content of the product for food preservation for a given shelf life.

  Using AI to improve manufacturing is a major development worldwide and one that requires to work with companies that are proactive in investing in new technological approaches. Achieving reliable drying schedules for product consistency will allow to expand these plants across Manitoba.” – Dr. Eric Bibeau, Primary Investigator 

   Recipients for Stream 2: Manitoba Post-Secondary Researchers

  2.Dustin Isleifson, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Manitoba

  • • Project Title: Low mass antennas and devices for satellite and drone remote sensing applications
    • Area: Advanced Manufacturing
    • Research Manitoba: $99,700 over 2 years

  We are proposing to create low mass antennas and components using additive manufacturing (3D printing). Antennas and other microwave circuits are key components on satellite and drone-based sensing platforms.

  However, traditional methods of constructing these components rely on bulky, and potentially high mass, metallic structures.

  Reducing mass would significantly decrease energy costs for satellite launches and extend battery life for drones, as the energy demands are tied directly to the need to move the vehicles. The goal of the project is to develop the capacity for efficiently building fully functional components that operate in the microwave spectrum using additive manufacturing processes.

  Several candidate microwave devices, including waveguide and antenna components, will be designed, fabricated, tested, and verified for potential use in future space and drone missions. Highly qualified personnel will be trained here in Manitoba on these concepts.

  Through this program, we will create partnerships and develop innovative ways to build capacity in Canadian industry, and, in Manitoban companies, for cutting-edge space and drone component design and fabrication. We envision using these low mass devices in upcoming space missions, such as Cubesats, and on drone platforms that will be used in Arctic remote sensing applications.

  “We propose to create innovative low mass antennas and components using additive manufacturing (3D printing). Antennas and microwave circuits are key components on satellite and drone-based sensing platforms; however, traditional construction methods rely on bulky, and potentially high mass, metallic parts. Reducing mass can significantly decrease energy costs for satellite launches and extend battery life for drones, as energy demands are tied directly to the vehicle movement. The funding provided through this grant will allow us to develop, fabricate, and test prototype devices at the University of Manitoba. Highly-qualified personnel will be trained here in Manitoba on these concepts.Through this program, we will create partnerships and build capacity in Canadian research and development, industry, and in Manitoban companies, for cutting-edge space and drone component design and fabrication. We envision using these low mass devices in upcoming space missions, such as Cubesats, and on drone platforms that will be used in Arctic remote sensing applications.” – Dr. Dustin Isleifson 

  3.Cheryl Glazebrook, Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, University of Manitoba

  • • Project Title: VStim: A Novel Wearable Vibration Wristband for Post-Stroke Rehabilitation
    • Area: Bioscience
    • Research Manitoba: $99,486.12 over 2 years

  Current evidence shows that applying vibration with specific characteristics over the wrist tendons improves upper limb movements in individuals who have suffered astroke. Application of the current technology is limited because it is expensive and not portable. VStim is the first wearable rehabilitation device that uses wrist mechanical vibration with the goal of improving lost limb function post-stroke.

  VStim is an affordable and accessible device that can be applied by patients independently. The 1004910 Manitoba Inc., who markets VStim, showed in their initial market validation that occupational and physiotherapists were interested in the function of VStim and are eager to try it with their patients.

  A research-grade prototype was developed and used to explore the effects of VStim on upper-limb movements of healthy individuals.

  However, this prototype is not integrated with VStim’s novel measurement method for controlling vibration characteristics. The current project will address prototype development and validation of a user-experience prototype that will be ready for larger clinical trials.

  In addition to developing and validating the user experience prototype, the relevant health regulation approvals for VStim will be acquired. The immediate future step will be to develop the go-to-market strategy to bring VStim to market.

  “The VStim wristband is the first wearable rehabilitation device that uses targeted mechanical vibration with the goal of improving lost upper limb function post-stroke. RM’s Innovation Proof of Concept grant will fund the development of a user-experience prototype, a critical next step that will allow VStim to move from the research lab into clinics and eventually to the Manitoba and Canadian market. The funding to develop a user-experience prototype is a key step for both VStim the company and the Perceptual-Motor Integration Lab’s research as the development of a user-experience prototype will make it possible to conduct clinical research in the community where Manitobans can access the newest rehabilitation technologies. For Manitoba, the development of the VStim wristband will grow our economy by establishing VStim as a profitable Manitoban MedTech start-up. In the context of healthcare, VStim will provide new affordable and accessible rehabilitation technology for Manitobans in both urban and rural areas, which has the potential to improve the quality of care and reduce load of the post-stroke rehabilitation system.” – Dr. Cheryl Glazebrook 

  4.Ian Jeffrey, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Manitoba

  • • Project Title: A Clinical-Trial-Ready Proof-of-Concept Microwave Imaging System for Stroke Detection, Classification, and Assessment
    • Area: Bioscience
    • Research Manitoba: $100,000 over 2 years

  We propose to develop a microwave imaging (MWI) system for detecting and classifying stroke in real time. Stroke occurs when blood flow to a region of the brain stops, either through blockage (ischemic stroke) or rupture (hemorrhagic stroke). More than 800,000 Canadians have suffered a stroke, which is the third highest cause of disability and death in Canada.

  To treat a stroke, it is necessary to determine whether the stroke is ischemic, in which case thrombolysis (blockage) can be applied, or hemorrhagic (bleeding), in which case thrombolysis must be avoided. These two classes of stroke can be distinguished by the regional excess or lack of blood in the brain, which in turn can be detected using medical imaging. MRI and CT are standards of care for the detection and assessment of stroke but are not ideal when attempting early classification of stroke during emergency transit, or when assessing post-stroke recovery through regular follow-up imaging.

  A low-cost MWI system designed to detect the accumulation of blood in the brain will provide a practical means of early stroke classification that is deployable in emergency vehicles and can be safely used for continuous recovery monitoring.

  “Our research group has previously applied electromagnetic imaging technology to breast cancer detection/monitoring and agricultural grain storage monitoring. Research Manitoba Innovation Proof-of-Concept funding is enabling us to leverage our past experience developing this imaging technology by applying it to stroke detection and classification. Microwave imaging is a low-cost and portable imaging modality that, with appropriate development, can determine if a stroke is due to bleeding (hemorrhagic) or from a clot (ischemic). Treatment for stroke should be started as soon as possible, and a low-cost, rapid way of determining the type of stroke is needed. Research Manitoba's Innovation Proof-of-Concept funding will allow us to develop a prototype microwave stroke imaging system that not only allows for imaging/classification of stroke, but also provides a measure of confidence in the resulting image/classification. A low-cost microwave imaging device capable of accurately and efficiently detecting stroke type has the potential to impact the medical sector as a major benefit to the health and well-being of all people. More specifically to Manitoba, we hope to repeat our past success in using innovation to grow tech-based industry. Our long-term goals seek to continue growing Manitoba’s economy through technological innovation leading  the growth of successful companies. We believe in contributing to our province’s success, while creating opportunities here in Manitoba.” – Dr. Ian Jeffrey  

  5.Karen Kabel and Tracy Brant, Red River College

  • • Project Title: Automatic Speech Project for Indigenous Reconciliation & Education (ASPIRE)
    • Area: Information and Communications Technology
    • Research Manitoba: $150,000 over 2 years

  With Indigenous leadership and community members as integral project team members, this ICT-based project establishes the foundation for an Ojibwe language Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) system. ASR systems automatically transcribe audio to written text. Driven by a commitment to Reconciliation, this project collates as much Ojibwe speech and text data as possible and processes it into a common format.

  This will establish a formalized corpus designed to be easily accessible by the research community and easily integrated, programmatically, with speech and language software tools. This work prepares for creating and evaluating a baseline Ojibwe ASR system, using open-source code, such as the Kaldi ASR toolkit, as well as methods recently developed at the University of Edinburgh. This will provide a branching/reference point for subsequent ASR research by the wider community. It will also facilitate experimenting with approaches towards improving performance for other low-resourced Indigenous languages. Research methodologies that emerge from Indigenous worldviews, epistemologies and ontology will be utilized throughout the life of the project. The Ojibwe ASR system will provide a technological avenue to redress some of the impacts of language colonization in Canada. Particularly for education and health applications, it will enhance cross-cultural communication.

  “The Research Manitoba Innovation Proof-of-Concept funding enables innovation incorporating the seven sacred teachings of humility, trust, respect, truth, love, wisdom, and courage by working with the Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and Communities to increase awareness, and revitalize Ojibwe culture and language for Manitobans. RRC Polytech’s School of Indigenous Education and Applied Computer Education are partnering together to preserve and promote the Ojibwe language using technology, Artificial Intelligence and the Ojibwe Language.” - The ASPIRE Team  

  6.Frederick Zeiler, Department of Surgery (Medicine), Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba

  • • Project Title: Computer Vision for Continuous Data Extraction and Digitization in Health Care
    • Area: Bioscience
    • Research Manitoba: $100,000 over 2 years

  Most medical treatment information is collected manually from bedside monitoring and medication administration devices, due to lack of digital compatibility and/or hardware restrictions. This poses a significant limitation as the frequency and amount of data gathered is restricted to human involvement, exposing patients to risk based on errors in data transcription. Similarly, as treatment becomes personalized and reliant on continuous data streams, limitations present with manual data collection will grow and become a significant barrier to future medical advancement. Thus, a system that can help collect medical information and export it into a digital format autonomously would be of benefit.

  Pertinent information is often attainable on device monitor displays, and there currently exists the technology to develop an image text-to-digital format conversion system. Using optical character recognition technologies, image manipulation, a camera, and computer; we will develop and test such a system. A complete system that converts treatment information from medical device screens into digital format will be designed and made available in a user-friendly software. With this, medical information can be collected without the involvement of human personnel, reducing medical errors and risks to patients, and improving health information digitization in clinical settings of all types.

  "With ongoing improvements in our technology and leveraging machine learning for bedside data digitization, the hope is to reduce workload burden of healthcare workers, increase the time such professionals have to care for patients, increase the rate of data capture for patients and reduce medical errors related to manual transcription of data using pen/pencil. The funding from Research Manitoba will facilitate ongoing novel device development, optimization and testing within a simulated environment.  All of which will lead to the technology being closer for live-time use within clinical care settings and better position it for potential external investment from the private/public sectors." – Dr. Frederick Zeiler 

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  For more information please contact:

  Tammy Hildebrand, Manager, Communications
  Research Manitoba
  P: 204.797.3258
  E: tammy.hildebrand@researchmb.ca

  To download the PDF version of the Full News Release please click on the link: Mar01_2023_IPoC News Announcement - FINALVS

• 

  NEWS ANNOUNCEMENT

  For Immediate Release

  Wednesday, February 8, 2023 - Winnipeg, Manitoba.

  Research Manitoba Announces New Partnership with Volatus Aerospace in Preparing High School Students for Careers in STEM and Aviation through the SEAR Program

  Research Manitoba is proud to announce its new partnership with Volatus Aerospace with grant funding of $500,000.00 committed over three years towards the expansion of its Science Experiential Aerial Research (SEAR) Program that will be offered in participating school divisions throughout Manitoba.

  The SEAR Program is designed to partner high school students with industry to research unique alternatives to solving relevant community sustainability issues. For the two projects in Manitoba, Volatus Aerospace will provide drones equipped with remote sensors to gather aerial data in targeted areas and apply machine learning analytics tools to identify the possible presence of Dutch Elm disease—a significant threat to the health of their urban tree canopy— and crop disease in specific crop varieties local to the region such as canola, lentils, and wheat. A minimum of 195 high school students (grades 9-12) from Manitoba School Divisions will develop important STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) skills by working with Volatus Aerospace.

  “Our government is proud to support the brand-new SEAR program, a first for Manitoba” said Jeff Wharton, Minister for Economic Development, Investment and Trade. “This continues our commitment of supporting the development of exciting growth industries in Manitoba, investing in our youth, and paving the way for future economic growth in our province.”

  “The SEAR Program is the first of its kind that Research Manitoba has ever funded in relation to aerial robotics research and how drones are advancing scientific research,” said Karen Dunlop, CEO of Research Manitoba. “We are thrilled to be a part of this important initiative that enables students to participate in research with industry as part of their high school education. STEM education not only teaches students how to think critically, solve problems and use creativity, but it also prepares students for further learning and careers in areas that are predicted to experience significant growth which is good for students, and our future economy.”

  Through a comprehensive year-long program, students will take part in almost every stage of the scientific discovery process, culminating in a “Data Collection Field Day,” which will apply the skills learned throughout the year. During the Data Collection Field Day, students will collect aerial and ground-based data samples alongside researchers from the University of Winnipeg to assess the growth and health conditions of the targeted areas.

  “The SEAR program is an exciting program that will provide Manitoba students an opportunity to develop important STEM skills and help motivate and inspire young people said, Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Wayne Ewasko. I look forward to seeing students excel and further their learning within the SEAR program.”

  “This is an exciting project on so many levels,” said Glen Lynch, CEO of Volatus Aerospace. “Not only does it represent an investment in our youth, but the result will facilitate the early detection of Dutch Elm disease, a costly, deadly disease affecting all species of elm trees allowing for early treatment. Similarly, early detection of crop disease will allow our producers to protect valuable food stocks and preserve their yield.”

  Students will be encouraged to continue with the SEAR Program, where they will be exposed to increasingly more complex aspects of drone and machine learning technologies. In addition, students will have the opportunity to work towards obtaining their Transport Canada Basic or Advanced RPAS pilot certificates throughout the program. The professional training and knowledge that students obtain from the program will enable them to pursue career opportunities in STEM as well as the drone industry, aviation, and aerospace.  The program is currently open and accepting applications from Manitoba-based school divisions interested in taking part in either of the Dutch Elm Disease, or the Crop Disease projects, during the 2022-2023 school year.

  “The SEAR Program has been a personal passion since we first launched it in 2021 with Seven Oaks School Division in Winnipeg,” said Matthew Johnson, Regional Vice President, Prairies & Director, Education for Volatus Aerospace. “Through these programs, we are able to engage students in the process of solving real-world problems while providing them with a learning opportunity usually limited to funded university-level programs.”

  Leveraged funding for Volatus Aerospace’s SEAR Program is $1,238,283 from project partners which include the funding provided by Research Manitoba and the Government of Manitoba, as well as contributions from Southport Aerospace, Winnipeg Airports Authority, Roquette, Integrated Crop Management Services, and additional support from the City of Winnipeg, and Manitoba Aerospace.

  -30-

  For more information please contact:

  Tammy Hildebrand, Manager, Communications
  Research Manitoba
  P: 204.797.3258
  E: tammy.hildebrand@researchmb.ca

  To download the PDF version of the Full News Release please click on the link: RMB_Volatus-NEWS RELEASE_ Feb8_2023_FinalVPDF

   

• RITHIM-IMPORTANT UPDATE

  

  NEWS ANNOUNCMENT

  For Immediate Release

  Monday, December 12, 2022 - Winnipeg, Manitoba.

  With the full implementation of the RITHIM program fast approaching, we have some important and exciting announcements to share with the research community.

  The full implementation of RITHIM, which will be achieved with the launch of the electronic RITHIM Provincial Research Administration System (RITHIM-PRAS), will streamline and harmonize the application and review processes for health research ethics, privacy, and institutional impact in Manitoba.

  IMPORTANT CHANGES COMING INCLUDE:

  • RITHIM will launch the new RITHIM-PRAS in early spring 2023. Specific dates and detailed information will be communicated beginning in January 2023.
  • When the RITHIM-PRAS system is launched, there will be changes in processes for how health research approvals for ethics, privacy, and institutional impact are obtained in Manitoba.
  • There will be ONE application through RITHIM-PRAS for researchers to complete, which collects information required for ethics, privacy, and institutional impact reviews.
  • A tool to assist in the routing of applications will be posted on the RITHIM website in early 2023 to help researchers determine if they need to apply through RITHIM.
  • Training on the new RITHIM-PRAS system will begin in early 2023 and will be delivered through a series of targeted webinars. In addition, videos and other support material will be available on the RITHIM website.
  • The Committee for Harmonized Health Impact, Privacy, and Ethics Review (CHIPER) will become the new provincial health research ethics board and will operate in accordance with all applicable regulations, guidelines, and policies governing research ethics review functions including the Tri-Council Policy Statement: Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans (TCPS2).
  • Applications will be triaged by RITHIM for assessment by ethics, privacy, and institutional reviewers, as appropriate. RITHIM will ensure a consolidated response that includes all these perspectives is provided to the researcher
  • Transparent tracking of applications to ethics, privacy, and institutional impact reviews will be available to researchers through the electronic system.

  The RITHIM team has been working closely with key stakeholders to develop an implementation plan that optimizes the use of the new RITHIM-PRAS application platform and supports the needs of stakeholders, researchers, and reviewers who will use the new system. 

  “This is really a bold step by the government and all the members of the academic health network in Manitoba to try and optimize patient-oriented research in the province. Overall, this should really make the process of conducting research much more efficient, transparent, and accountable. And, ultimately, it will benefit patients in Manitoba because they will get access to cutting edge clinical care that is being evaluated in the various research programs.”   

   - Dr. Peter Nickerson Vice-Provost, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences and Dean for the Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba

  WHEN WILL THE ELECTRONIC SYSTEM BE READY?

  RITHIM-PRAS will launch in early spring 2023. As soon as the system opens, researchers can begin submitting applications and applicable delegated CHIPER reviews will begin. There will be a period of transition where existing processes and the new RITHIM-PRAS processes overlap. During this time, researchers will have the choice of submitting through RITHIM-PRAS or existing processes for ethics, privacy, and institutional impact reviews. Confirmation of those dates and clear instructions for researchers regarding this transition period will be released in January 2023.

  WHO NEEDS TO BE READY?

  Researchers and Research Coordinators

  Researchers and their staff should be aware that a shift is coming in early spring next year in how they submit applications for ethics, privacy, and institutional impact reviews.

  Post Secondary Institutions

  Post-secondary institutions need to prepare for the launch of RITHIM-PRAS to ensure that their internal policies and procedures, as well as appropriate agreements regarding ethics reviews for health research, align with the new provincial system.

  Health System Institutions

  Health system institutions need to prepare for the launch of RITHIM-PRAS to ensure that their internal policies and procedures align with the new provincial system. Shared Health, in their lead and coordinate role within the health system, along with the RITHIM team, will continue to work with health system stakeholders to help prepare for this change over the coming months.

  CALL FOR CHIPER NOMINATIONS

   The success of RITHIM will be a shared achievement across stakeholders and the Manitoba research community. RITHIM needs reviewers to participate on committees in order to provide the robust, high-quality reviews needed for health research. Please consider supporting health research in Manitoba by participating on CHIPER.

   For more detailed information on the CHIPER nomination process and member involvement, please click HERE.

  QUESTIONS AND CONTACT

  A “Frequently Asked Questions” page has been developed to provide additional detail and address questions received from stakeholders. Please click on the link to view this page: http://rithim.ca/rithimlaunchfaq

  Please visit www.rithim.ca for more information and updates. Questions can also be sent directly to RITHIM@researchmb.ca.

  To download the PDF version of this news release please click HERE .

• Innovative Solutions and Products Created in Manitoba

  

  NEWS ANNOUNCEMENT

  For Immediate Release

  Innovative Solutions and Products Created in Manitoba

  $1.1 Million in Research Funding for Ten New Innovation Proof-of-Concept Grants

  Thursday, November 1o, 2022 – Winnipeg, Manitoba. Today Research Manitoba announces a total investment of $1,116,870.00 in research funding to support ten new Innovation Proof-of-Concept (IPoC) Grants. Research Manitoba’s investment will leverage $623,200.00 and will support Manitoba-based projects in the areas of; Biosciences (4 projects), Information and Communications Technology (1 project), Advanced Manufacturing (2 projects), and Infrastructure and Transportation Industries and Technologies (3 projects).

  The IPoC Grant aims to strengthen Manitoba-based research innovation and development projects, by filling a funding gap in the Manitoba innovation ecosystem.

  “Our government is proud to support the Manitoba-based innovation projects, which will strengthen the development in the fastest growing sector in our province,” said Cliff Cullen, Minister of Economic Development, Investment and Trade. “These IPoC projects will help push Manitoba forward as an industry leader in Biosciences, Information and Communication Technology, Advanced Manufacturing, and Infrastructure and Transportation Industries and Technologies. These industries are crucial in creating new jobs and bringing additional trade into the province.”

  Through two independent streams, this program provides funding, which is not otherwise accessible, to progress innovative research toward commercialization.

  • IPoC Stream 1: Manitoba-Based Consortium of academic researchers and local companies to support collaboration that is addressing a company- specific discovery or innovation toward market usability. This stream allows academics to use their world-class knowledge, facilities, and highly qualified personnel to close the knowledge gaps identified during the industry partner’s innovation development.
  • IPoC Stream 2: Manitoba Post-Secondary Researchers support the advancement of discoveries or innovations within an academic setting, which may result in products or technologies, towards market usability. These projects engage post-secondary students, giving them skills and opportunities to contribute to innovative solutions.

  Funds from this program help support activities directly related to process validation and proof-of-concept development. This research funding fosters research innovation, economic development, and the commercialization of products, through the movement of innovations from ideas to market usability.

   “Congratulations to all the recent Innovation Proof-of-Concept recipients,” said Karen Dunlop CEO, of Research Manitoba. “The IPoC projects funded demonstrate the diversity of innovation, talent, and collaboration in Manitoba. We are proud to promote research and development of innovative ideas essential for economic development.”

  Recipients for STREAM 1: Manitoba-Based Consortium

  1. 1.Academic Institution: University of Winnipeg
     • Industry Partners: R-Tech Industries , Northstar Robotics, EMILI
     • Project Title: Agriculture re-envisioned – breaking through the proximal data bottleneck
     • Area: Information and Communications Technology
     • Research Manitoba: $150,000, over two years
     • Leveraged funds: $412, 500

  Real-time, automated methods of in-field data collection are needed to increase productivity and sustainability in production agriculture, expedite plant breeding and research, and further the uptake of organic farming. The project team, in partnership with Enterprise Machine Intelligence and Learning Initiative (EMILI), is developing a self-propelled, GPS-guided data rover for the rapid collection of plant images and environmental data in test plots, and organic farms across a full-scale commercial farm. Large volumes of high-quality, in-field data are crucial for the development of crop scouting technology that will identify weeds amongst crops, characterize plant health and yield, or detect disease. This project is the next innovative leap by the TerraByte research group and its collaborators.

  “This is a great investment in an important project for digital agriculture in Manitoba and across the prairies. This work contributes to our collective digital agriculture expertise and ability to autonomously collect real-time in-field data,” said Jacqueline Keena, Managing Director, EMILI.  “The project’s unique focus on prairie crops provides great value to the industry right here in Manitoba and I am looking forward to testing and validating this technology at Innovation Farms.”

  “Digital agriculture is coming, and with it the large-scale use of robotics and computers to quickly generate, digest, and act upon massive amounts of data. The rover we are developing is a critical first step toward this goal, allowing us to collect both the quantity and quality of crop image data needed to drive innovation,” said Christopher Bidinosti, Professor in the Department of Physics, University of Winnipeg. “Our project is an exciting new frontier in the long and venerable tradition of agriculture implementation development in Manitoba.”
  

  "The Rover platform is intended to leverage scarce labor resources while improving both the quality and quantity of digital data collection that is critical to the decision-making process in modern crop production systems," said Rob McClement, Owner, R-Tech Industries Ltd.

  2. 2.Academic Institution: University of Manitoba
  • Industry Partner: Orthopedic Innovation Centre
  • Project Title: Antibiotic materials for additive manufacturing of patient-specific medical devices
  • Area: Advanced Manufacturing
  • Research Manitoba: $147,700, over two years
  • Leveraged funds: $210,700

  Developing an infection after surgery that involves a medical implant can have devastating consequences for patients. In partnership with the Orthopedic Innovation Centre (OIC), the project team will advance the development of a technology that blends 3D printing with antibiotics to create customized implants with the potential to solve these infections. As a result, the technology will enable rapid, in-hospital manufacturing of medical implants that are tailored to a patient’s needs.

  “3D printing is an exciting technology that is already being used in some areas of medicine. Combining 3D printing with infection-fighting antibiotics is a further innovation with big potential, and we aim to demonstrate this,” said Trevor Gascoyne, President, and CEO, of the Orthopedic Innovation Centre.

  Recipients for STREAM 2: Manitoba Post-Secondary Researchers

  3. 3.Aftab Mufti, Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Manitoba
     • Project Title: Developing software based on the empirical evidence to rationalize design provisions of the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code (CHBDC) of reinforced concrete deck slabs
     • Area: Infrastructure and Transportation Industries and Technologies
     • Research Manitoba: $100,000, over two years

  A major advancement in the technology of reinforced bridge deck designs is the creation of a theoretical basis for empirical evidence and the development of computational software to ensure precision in the design of reinforced concrete deck slabs (RCDS). This project will enable consulting engineers to use this analytical method to design more efficiently, and accurately determine design options for specific conditions and parameters, thereby increasing safety, reliability, and the economics of bridge design using RCDS.

  4. 4.Aftab Mufti, Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Manitoba
     • Project Title: Pi Bracket Crack Sensor (PiBCS) for crack detection monitoring near stiffeners in Bridge Girders
     • Area: Infrastructure and Transportation Industries and Technologies
     • Research Manitoba: $100,000, over two years

  Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) is a process of attaching sensors to a structure, collecting data at a central monitoring site, and analyzing the data to assess the capacity of a structure. Development and commercialization of the Pi Bracket Crack Sensor as part of the SHM process will minimize the area where cracks cannot be detected, increase the service life of bridges, and maintain safety. Successful commercialization of this product provides the sector with a solution for crack detection in an area of bridge girders that is particularly susceptible to fatigue, near girder stiffeners.

  “If you look at history, innovation comes from courageous thinking and studying past discoveries. Our yearning to train young minds to innovate safe and sustainable bridges has led to a new generation of experts in this field and pioneering discoveries. The funds awarded by Research Manitoba have made this possible,” said Dr. Aftab Mufti, Professor Emeritus, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Manitoba and four-time recipient of the IPoC Grant.

  5. 5.Anuraag Shrivastav, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Winnipeg
     • Project Title: Performance Evaluation of Novel NMT-IHC Tests as Predictive and Prognostic Tests for Breast Cancer
     • Area: Bioscience
     • Research Manitoba: $100,000, over two years

  Breast Cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer in Canadian women.  It is estimated that 27,400 Canadian women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, and 5,100 died of the disease. On average, 75 Canadian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer every day, and 14 will die of the disease. This project will support the development of breast cancer diagnostics to predict recurrence and improve the detection, and treatment of breast cancer.

  6. 6.Lucy Marzban, College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba
     • Project Title: Development and validation of a novel clinical laboratory test for assessment of pancreatic amyloid formation in diabetic patients
     • Area: Bioscience
     • Research Manitoba: $99,800, over two years

  Type 2 diabetes (T2D; adult onset) is progressively increasing in Manitoba and worldwide. Loss of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas is a key defect in T2D that leads to elevated blood glucose. The formation of toxic protein aggregates named islet amyloid is an important factor contributing to a beta-cell loss in T2D. Treatment strategies to prevent amyloid formation, however, are currently limited by challenges in the assessment of amyloid in patients due to a lack of diagnostic tests. In this project, the team will use a novel biomarker strategy to develop the first diagnostic laboratory test for the assessment of amyloid formation in patients. Detection of amyloid at early stages with this sensitive, specific, and cost-effective blood test will allow timely and effective treatments to prevent beta-cell damage caused by amyloid thereby preserving beta cells in patients with T2D. 

  7. 7.Carl Ho and David Swatek, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Manitoba
     • Project Title: A Bi-directional Wireless Charging System for Self-Driving Electric Vehicles
     • Area: Infrastructure and Transportation Industries and Technologies
     • Research Manitoba: $100,000, over two years

  Wireless power transmission is a rapidly emerging technology that enables the automatic and contactless charging of an electric vehicle whenever it stops over a designated charging area. In this way, it provides convenient and seamless on-route charging, reducing “range anxiety” and ultimately enabling fully autonomous self-driving vehicles. The current research project will design and demonstrate a prototype bi-directional, wireless, electric vehicle charging system capable of sourcing power from the grid and returning power to the grid. Electric vehicles equipped with bi-directional charging capability become energy storage elements that can be drawn upon to improve power quality and avoid blackouts. This work is being done in collaboration with Manitoba Hydro and will be useful in planning a future decentralized and decarbonized distribution grid. The results will also benefit the electric vehicle industry by providing advanced battery charging systems.

  8. 8.Can-Ming Hu, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science, University of Manitoba
     • Project Title: Real-time monitoring of stored grain for insect pest infestations
     • Area: Advanced Manufacturing
     • Research Manitoba: $100,000

  Global food insecurity has risen since 2018, leading to 828 million people going to bed hungry every night. Meanwhile, between 1.4% and 5.9% of the world's harvested grains are lost due to insect infestation. It urges creative ways to reduce such waste to prevent the widespread destruction of livelihoods. The most commonly used technology for monitoring stored grain is insect traps, which require manual inspections and are labor-intensive and time-consuming. To surmount these shortcomings, this project aims to develop a microwave sensor for remote real-time monitoring of grain bins for insects. The research is based on interdisciplinary collaborations between the groups of Dr. Can-Ming Hu at the Faculty of Science, Dr. Digvir S. Jayas and Dr. Fuji Jian at the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Manitoba, and Dr. Paul Fields at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. It is envisaged that the commercialization of this portable and cost-effective insect sensor to the market can improve integrated pest management and help combat food insecurity.

  9. 9.Sabine Kuss, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Manitoba
     • Project Title: Development of an Electrochemical Antibiotic Susceptibility Sensor
     • Area: Bioscience
     • Research Manitoba: $100,000

  Antimicrobial resistance is a growing problem that severely increases the number of deaths from bacterial infections. This research project presents an innovative and interdisciplinary approach to recognizing and quantifying antimicrobial resistance in bacteria by electrochemistry by detecting the direct uptake and export of antibiotics by/from living bacteria. Electroanalytical techniques are cost-efficient, sensitive, and able to detect antibiotics in blood, urine, and saliva. The overall goal of this research is the development of a point-of-care biosensor to identify drug susceptibility in patient samples within minutes, or even seconds. This technology will advance clinical treatment from the current trial-and-error approach to the prescription of evidence-based personalized drug regimens.

  10. 10.Jeffrey Leiter, Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, University of Manitoba
      • Project Title: Using EMG and lower limb kinematics to develop a Skating App
      • Area: Bioscience
      • Research Manitoba: $119,370

  Hockey development should focus on optimizing performance and maximizing the protection of the athlete. Groin injuries account for 10% of all hockey injuries. Since 1.4 million players are registered in hockey worldwide, approximately 140,000 players will have groin injuries this season. Improper skating mechanics, specifically lower limb movements, are not only the likely cause of this injury but also a limiting factor for performance. This project will study muscle activity and lower limb movements during an on-ice sprint to develop a Skating App that will reduce groin injury (protection) and enhance skating speed (performance).

  ----------------------------------- END --------------------------------------------

   Contact:

  Tammy Hildebrand, Manager, Communications, Research Manitoba

  P: 204.942.8702 | E: tammy.hildebrand@researchmb.ca | W: researchmanitoba.ca

  Research Manitoba:

  Research Manitoba promotes, supports, and coordinates the funding of research excellence and innovation in health, natural and social sciences, engineering, and the humanities in Manitoba. Research Manitoba supports local talent development by providing research support to early career researchers and graduate students, along with fostering strategic partnerships to strengthen research and innovation in Manitoba.

  To learn more about IPoC:

  • Visit our website at: Innovation Proof-of-Concept (IPoC) Program, or,
  • Email: helpdesk@researchmb.ca

  To downlonad the PDF version of this news release click HERE

   

   

• JUST RELEASED! - Research Manitoba's 2021-2022 Annual Report "A Source of Research Excellence"

  October 10, 2022 – Research Manitoba was pleased to release our 2021-22 Annual Report, "A Source of Research Excellence", including Financial Statements on September 30, 2022. The report is now available online and available to stakeholders.

  The report features a summary of Research Manitoba's past year of successes, highlights our programs and funding, and includes messages from Andrea Legary, Chair of the Board and Karen Dunlop, Chief Executive Officer.

  Thank you to our funder, the Department of Economic Development, Investment and Trade, and to the research community in our province - your dedication to championing our researchers and building strong connections is so important to advancing research in Manitoba.

  Click HERE to view the 2021-2022 Annual Report NOW!

  

  Click HERE to download the PDF version of our 2021-22 RMB Annual Report.

• Research Manitoba & Alzheimer Society of Canada, 'Research Program Partnership' to invest in Manitoba’s best and brightest dementia researchers.

  

  NEWS ANNOUNCEMENT

  October 5, 2022 – Winnipeg, Manitoba

  Research Manitoba & Alzheimer Society of Canada Research Program Partnership

  Research Manitoba is advancing dementia research and accelerating new research discoveries by partnering with the Alzheimer Society of Canada Research Program (ASRP), to invest in Manitoba’s best and brightest dementia researchers.

  Through the ASRP and Research Manitoba partnership, $450,000 is available to support researchers focused on investigating new insights into causes, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

  Types of Grants and Awards:

   Awards

  • Doctoral Awards provide an opportunity for promising individuals, pursuing a PhD, or combined master’s degrees and PhD, to begin the process of becoming future independent investigators in the field of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
  • Postdoctoral Awards are for graduates with a PhD or MD who wish to gain additional research experience within an established research environment.

   Grants

  • New Investigator Operating Grants are designed to help launch the careers of outstanding researchers who are within the first six (6) years of their initial academic appointment.
  • Proof of Concept Grants are designed to fund innovative, potentially high-risk, and high-reward research that pushes beyond the boundaries of our existing understanding of dementia.

  With an aim to support research that will improve the lives of those with lived experience, applicants from all disciplines are invited to apply. Eligible proposals may be cross-cutting or interdisciplinary in nature. Priority will be given to applications that will have a significant impact on the lives of those living with dementia and their caregivers.

  The application is now open, deadline to apply on November 4, 2022.

  For more information and to apply, please visit www.alzheimer.ca/apply

• 2023 Trainee Awards Competition is NOW OPEN!

  Research Manitoba is excited to announce that the '2023 Trainee Awards Competition is NOW OPEN!

  

  Three Categories: Master's Studentship Award, PhD Health Research Studentship Award, and the Health Research Postdoctoral Fellowship Award.

  For more detailed information on our grant funding and programs, please visit: www.researchmanitoba.ca/TRAINEE AWARDS2023

• 2022 Grants and Awards Competition Results

  

  Click on link below to download the 2022 Research Manitoba Grants and Awards Competition Results:

  2022 Grants and Awards Competition Results

   

   

   

• 

   

  An Important NEWS UPDATE (SUMMER 2022) from the RITHIM Team.

   
  Please click on the link below to read the full update now:

  https://tinyurl.com/RITHIM-SUMMERUPDATE2022

• Research Manitoba Announces New Initiative in Collaboration with the pharmaceutical and health tech industry for patients living with Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease and Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Manitoba

  

  NEWS RELEASE
  For Immediate Release

  June 15, 2022 – Winnipeg, Manitoba

  Research Manitoba, in collaboration with Novartis Canada and MindSet, is proud to announce an exciting new research project which will focus on the evaluation of LDL cholesterol treatment, cardiovascular events, and healthcare costs among individuals with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) in Manitoba.

  Currently, ASCVD is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and FH is estimated at about 1/300 persons worldwide.  ASCVD is a hardening and narrowing of the arteries caused by cholesterol plaques lining the artery over time and can put blood flow at risk as arteries become blocked. FH is a hereditary disorder and causes LDL (bad) cholesterol levels to be very high. The condition begins at birth and can cause heart attacks at an early age. Canadian Journal of Cardiology, Volume 34 (2018) 1553-1563

  Research Manitoba and Novartis Canada are providing the financial investment over two years and MindSet (Manitoba’s INtegrated Data Set) and Novartis are collaborating to operationalize the research project. The project objective is to identify the most effective strategy for lowering LDL-C and costs.

  “The health of Manitobans and strengthening healthcare in Manitoba is our government’s top priority,” said Health Minister Audrey Gordon. “Our government continues to search for and support innovative ways to address significant challenges to the health-care system exemplified by this research collaboration with Novartis Canada, MindSet and Research Manitoba. We look forward to the affect research such as this will have on the health-care system in Manitoba and for all Canadians.”

  “We are pleased to collaborate with Novartis Canada and MindSet on this innovative research project that will use integrated real-world data to evaluate the impact of a therapeutic treatment to improve patient health outcomes,” said Karen Dunlop, CEO of Research Manitoba.

  The research project team will conduct a retrospective study using health administrative databases to report the point prevalence of ASCVD in Manitoba and to describe this population in terms of demographic, clinical characteristics, treatment received, and health care resource utilization. Additionally, data from the study will support the creation of a HEOR model to estimate the impact in Manitoba of using inclisiran in the management of hypercholesterolemia in an ASCVD population.

  “Public Private Partnerships can be a powerful way to solve large-scale healthcare challenges. With this data-driven project, Novartis is committing to partnering with Manitoba on the pressing healthcare issue of ASCVD in ways that both meet the province’s goals, needs, and priorities and accelerates the identification, treatment, and support of patients,” said Andrea Marazzi, Country President, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc. “I commend Research Manitoba and MindSet for their innovative approach to addressing the immense burden this disease has on our healthcare system health and on the health and well-being of Canadians.”

  This initiative marks an innovative public-private collaboration that will bridge the gaps in real-world evidence for the treatment of ASCVD and FH. The goal is for the findings to support the lowering of LDL-C and improving patient health outcomes and healthcare costs for Canadians.

                                                                          -30-

   

  For more information please contact:

  Tammy Hildebrand, Manager, Communications
  Research Manitoba
  P: 204.797.3258
  E: tammy.hildebrand@researchmb.ca

  Download the PDF version of the Full News Release: NEWS RELEASE- RMB_Novartis_ MindSet_ 15_06_2022_ FINALV

• Important Information for Researchers

  

  1) *New* RITHIM Website Updates

  As of April 27, 2022, all information and forms related to provincial health research privacy review have been moved to the RITHIM website under the Privacy (PHRPC) menu. Researchers are strongly encouraged to bookmark the new site and check back often for updates.

  2) *New* Updated Provincial Health Research Privacy Committee (PHRPC) Application Form

  In response to feedback from the committee and the research community, the PHRPC Application Form has been updated. The new form, dated April 2022, can be found here.

  Please use the new form going forward. Old versions of the form will no longer be accepted as of June 7, 2022. The updated form incorporates a few new key questions which will provide clarity to both researchers and the committee on (i) whether their project requires PHRPC review and (ii) data security considerations.    

  3) *New* PHRPC Policy Update – Data Requirements

  PHRPC can now approve the use of data for the length of a project, up to a maximum of 5 years, at which time the project must be reviewed by PHRPC. Amendments will no longer be required for adding new years of data if the data requested and the scope of the data to be used does not change.

  4) *Reminder* - HIPC Applications That Have Received Conditional Approval

  For all applications that received conditional approval from the HIPC committee prior to January 1, 2022, applicants have one year from the date of the conditional approval to resubmit to the HIPC for review. If the requested information is not submitted within this time period, a new application will need to be submitted to the PHRPC. Please email the pending documents and responses to conditional approval letter to HIPC@gov.mb.ca for review and full approval.

  5) *Reminder* - Amendments to Research Projects Approved by HIPC

  Any proposed changes to a research project that was approved by the HIPC must be reported to the PHRPC for review and approval in advance of its implementation. For more information, and to find the amendment form, please visit the RITHIM website.

  For inquiries or for more information, please contact: PHRPC@researchmb.ca

  To download the PDF version please click on link: May 16,2022_Important Information for Researchers from RITHIM

• Research Manitoba, Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. and First Nations Health and Social Secretariat of Manitoba Announce Chronic Kidney Disease Screening Program in the Manitoba Adult First Nations Population

  

  NEWS RELEASE
  For Immediate Release

  April 6, 2022 – Winnipeg, Manitoba

  Research Manitoba, Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd., and the First Nations Health and Social Secretariat of Manitoba are proud to announce an exciting project ‘Optimizing First Nations Chronic Kidney Disease and Diabetes Care’ which will focus on the early identification and management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetes via Virtual Kidney Check and Follow-up involving a unique collaboration of stakeholders. The project is being funded through the Boehringer Ingelheim-Research Manitoba (BI-RM) Partnership Fund. This fund supports community-based research and innovation projects focused on improving diabetes-related health outcomes within urban, rural and remote Indigenous communities in Manitoba.   

  Manitoba has the highest incidence and prevalence of kidney failure in Canada that is driven by a disproportionate burden of diabetes and CKD in First Nations communities. First Nations peoples are at an increased risk of developing CKD and face many barriers to accessing health care. Diagnoses are often delayed and the opportunities to modify risk and disease progression with lifestyle interventions and medications are often missed. A new approach is urgently needed to improve the lives of First Nations peoples across Manitoba with or at-risk of developing chronic kidney disease.

  Through the Boehringer Ingelheim-Research Manitoba (BI-RM) Partnership Fund, Drs. David Collister & Paul Komenda (University of Manitoba), along with the First Nations Health Social Secretariat of Manitoba (FNHSSM) will create a public health screening program using an integrated health dataset, telenephrology for screening, and risk stratification and management of CKD in First Nations adults across Manitoba. This project is one of three demonstration trials within MindSet – Manitoba’s Integrated Data Set to demonstrate the use and value of provincially integrated health data to answer critical questions about quality, outcomes, cost, and equity in the health system. MindSet is a partnership between the University of Manitoba and Manitoba Health and Seniors Care and will contribute to the province’s efforts to build a provincial health data platform. A key deliverable of this research is the creation of a public health screening program for CKD in all Indigenous adults in Manitoba. A registry and data platform of Indigenous adults at risk of CKD will be created by FNHSSM to continue monitoring kidney health of Indigenous adults that will be shared with government and key stakeholders to create awareness of the health status and resources needed in the communities.

  Based on patient-centricity and Indigenous-led care, the Boehringer Ingelheim-Research Manitoba (BI-RM) Partnership Fund aligns Boehringer Ingelheim Canada’s PATHWAYS Framework to include the perspectives of Indigenous leadership to ensure research strategies are directly informed through Indigenous knowledge and community participation. All aspects of community engagement will be done in collaboration with the FNHSSM and Manitoba Patient Partners with lived experience of chronic kidney disease.

  “The high prevalence of chronic kidney disease and diabetes in Manitoba is a critical issue facing our province’s healthcare system. Finding innovative and effective solutions to address this requires a unique partnership such as this. We are proud to partner with Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) on the Boehringer Ingelheim-Research Manitoba (BI-RM) Partnership Fund supporting this important research. This strategic partnership with Boehringer Ingelheim Canada and FNHSSM provides Manitoba with an opportunity to help improve chronic kidney disease and diabetes health outcomes within Indigenous communities in Manitoba and advance more equitable access to care among Manitoba’s Indigenous communities,” said Karen Dunlop, CEO of Research Manitoba.

  “Creating innovative healthcare solutions for all Canadians is part of our purpose as a company in Canada. We believe by partnering with Indigenous communities, companies and organizations we can help to address healthcare gaps for all Canadians. Addressing system gaps by partnering with researchers and stakeholders will drive patient-centric healthcare with respectful and culturally appropriate education, resources, and support to Indigenous Peoples in a community-driven way,” said Andrea Sambati, President and CEO of Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd.

  “This is an opportunity to create a First Nations co-led diabetes surveillance strategy that adheres to the First Nations principles of OCAP (ownership, control, access and possession) and asserts First Nations data sovereignty through the signing of information sharing agreements that outline the terms of collection and use of First Nations data that supports the urgent need to address the high prevalence of diabetes amongst Manitoba First Nations and complications resulting from diabetes through screening and access to primary care specialists before complications negatively impact the wellbeing of First Nations who may be at risk of developing diabetes. First Nations children within Manitoba are “25 times more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than other Manitobans”, we need to begin screening at earlier stage, this partnership will provide the evidence needed to intervene at an earlier stage based before complications begin,” said Leona Star, Director of Research with the FNHSSM.

  “Indigenous peoples living in rural and remote parts of the province often have barriers in accessing diagnostic and treatment options for conditions such as kidney disease and diabetes. Innovative projects like this, that include Indigenous leadership in addressing health issues and in the development of solutions will help to empower and optimize care for Indigenous Manitobans,” said Alan Lagimodiere, Minister for Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations.

  “This project will determine the best way to operationalize population-based screening for chronic kidney disease and diabetes in First Nations adults living in Manitoba. The goal is to identify kidney disease early and initiate disease modifying therapy including blood pressure control and medications that significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and kidney failure. We want to create a population-based screening program, similar to cancer screening programs, but expanded to all Indigenous persons in Manitoba to prevent the complications of diabetes and kidney disease that are negatively impacting health and quality of life,” said Dr. David Collister, nephrologist and assistant professor at the University of Manitoba.

  This initiative marks a leading public-private collaboration in Indigenous healthcare in Canada and, if proven successful, will determine the most effective way to complete population-based screening for chronic kidney disease in First Nations adults in Manitoba.

                                                           -30-

  Contact:

  Tammy Hildebrand, Manager, Communications
  Research Manitoba
  P: 204.797.3258
  E: tammy.hildebrand@researchmb.ca

  Download the PDF version of the Full News Release: RM-BI-FNHSSM News Release_ENG and FRENCH_ FINALV

  Watch our Partnership Video: https://youtu.be/Av2BrT_Ic1A

• Today Research Manitoba announces the new provincial initiative Research Improvements Through Harmonization in Manitoba (RITHIM)

  

  NEWS RELEASE
  For Immediate Release

  RITHIM: A new way forward for health research in Manitoba

  (Winnipeg, Manitoba) Monday, April 4, 2022 –Health research in Manitoba has a high value to our society. It can provide important information about disease trends, outcomes of treatment, and public health interventions, as well as give Manitobans, access to leading-edge clinical trials. Conducting health research on humans requires a rigorous review of human ethics and privacy. Navigating these necessary reviews has been cumbersome and lengthy, involving many organizations with as many processes and timelines. Research Manitoba is leading the way to a better system with the new provincial initiative Research Improvements Through Harmonization in Manitoba (RITHIM). RITHIM will streamline and harmonize the review processes related to health research in Manitoba. This innovative program will create a more efficient and effective pathway for researchers including all the necessary checks and balances while cutting down the lengthy time for approval that currently exists in the province. RITHIM and its innovative platform will make it faster and easier to conduct health research, making Manitoba one of the most attractive provinces in Canada to conduct health research.

  “The advantages that this innovative program creates will have on the health-care system are numerous. Increasing the effectiveness and efficiency in health research methods while ensuring rigorous review to protect Manitobans will help to position our province as an extremely attractive health research center.”

  - Audrey Gordon, Minister of Health

  “Navigating the complex environment related to human research has been a barrier to delivering cutting edge care to Manitobans at the developmental stage. RITHIM addresses this problem head on and is a much welcome solution by the research community who are committed to advancing patient care in Manitoba.”  

  - Dr. Peter Nickerson, Vice Dean Research, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Medical Director Transplant Manitoba

  RITHIM received support from the Ministers of Health and the Economy in 2015 and again in 2017 when Research Manitoba was asked to lead the implementation of a series of recommendations to transform the system for health research approvals in Manitoba. RITHIM is the most ambitious project undertaken by Research Manitoba. It was designed by the research community over several years with many stakeholders including the Manitoba government, Shared Health, Regional Health Authorities, Healthcare and Research Institutions, Post-Secondary Institutions, Researchers, and Industry.

  “Our province has a lot of innovative healthcare researchers with the skills and knowledge to help their fellow Manitobans. Today’s announcement will be very beneficial in helping to attract additional investments to the province. By having a better streamlined process, it will shorten the timelines for the reviews and approvals needed to conduct health research, including clinical trials. This move will help research to be more in line with the modern speed of business.”

  - Cliff Cullen, Minister of Economic Development, Investment and Trade

  RITHIM will streamline the applications through the electronic Provincial Research Administration System (PRAS) and harmonized review processes, making it easier and faster to conduct health research in Manitoba while maintaining the highest levels of ethics and privacy protection.

  “RITHIM will reduce the administrative burden for researchers, in turn, attracting talent and cutting-edge clinical trials to Manitoba.”

  -Karen Dunlop, Chief Executive Officer, Research Manitoba

  “The University of Manitoba has supported RITHIM since its inception.  The harmonization and streamlining it facilitates will benefit Manitoba’s researchers and will help attract clinical trial investments in Manitoba.  The University of Manitoba is pleased to continue to support RITHIM through a variety of in kind supports.”

  -Dr. Digvir S. Jayas, Vice-President (Research and International), University of Manitoba

  RITHIM launched its first phase of the program on January 1, 2022, when amendments were made to The Personal Health Information Act (PHIA). These amendments enabled the formal implementation of the RITHIM program, including the establishment of the Provincial Health Research Privacy Committee (PHRPC) as the only committee authorized to review and approve requests to access personal health information for research purposes. The Committee for Harmonized Health Impact, Privacy, and Ethics Review (CHIPER) will conduct ethics reviews for all initiatives going forward.

  The full RITHIM program, including phase two of the execution of PRAS, will be implemented later in 2022.

  -30-

  CONTACT

  Tammy Hildebrand, Manager, Communications
  Research Manitoba
  P: 204.797.3258
  E: tammy.hildebrand@researchmb.ca

  Download the PDF version of the RITHIM News Release 2022-04-04_RITHIM News Release_FINAL

   

   

• Innovative Solutions and Products Created in Manitoba: $200,000 in Research Funding for Two New Innovation Proof-of-Concept Grants

  

  October 21, 2021 – Winnipeg, Manitoba. Today Research Manitoba announces $200,922 in research funding to support two new Innovation Proof-of-Concept Grants. Research Manitoba’s investment leverages $101,000 and supports Manitoba-based projects in the areas of Bioscience and Advanced Manufacturing.

  This research funding will foster research innovation, economic development, and the commercialization of products, through the movement of innovations from ideas to market usability.

  “Our government is pleased to partner with Research Manitoba, in order to create jobs and support the development of local businesses,” said Minister of Economic Development and Jobs Jon Reyes. “By making investments in important research, we are helping Manitobans create innovative solutions that will help people across this province and beyond.”

  “Congratulations to our recent Innovation Proof-of-Concept recipients,” said Karen Dunlop CEO, Research Manitoba. “We are proud to promote Manitoba’s economic growth by supporting local academic and industry research and development.”

  These innovative projects will enhance and strengthen technology or product maturity towards market usability, encourage research and development that will accelerate technology transfer and commercialization of innovative products, processes, and services, and support talent development and build capacity for translational research in Manitoba.

  Recipient for Stream 1: Manitoba-Based Consortium
  Academic Institution: Red River College Polytechnic
  Industry Partner: Carbon Lock Technologies Inc.

  Project Title: The Production of Biocarbon from Organic Waste and its utilization in Sustainable Landfill Management, Wastewater Treatment, Municipal Infrastructure, Carbon Sequestration and New Materials and Manufactured Goods

  Research Manitoba: $101,000 Leveraged funds: $101,000

  Recipient for Stream 2: Manitoba Post-Secondary Researchers Jacob Burgess, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science, University of Manitoba Project Title: Digital Fabrication of Low-Cost Sub-Millimeter Wave Optics

  Research Manitoba: $99,922

  Read the Full Release

  View Recipients List

• From Ideas to Market – Advancing Research and Innovation in Manitoba - $2.1M in Research Funding for Local Researchers and Companies

  

  August 26, 2021 – Winnipeg, Manitoba. Research Manitoba is proud to announce $2,094,900 in research funding to support seventeen Innovation Proof-of-Concept Grants. Research Manitoba’s investment leverages $2.13M and supports Manitoba-based projects in Biosciences, ICT, Advanced Manufacturing, and Infrastructure and Transportation Industries and Technologies.

  These funds will foster research innovation and development in the Technology Readiness Levels 3-7 range, economic development and commercialization of products, and the movement of innovations from ideas to market usability.

  “The Innovation Proof-of-Concept Grant provides funding for commercialization research that supports an inspiring level of collaboration, advances discovery, and propels local companies and industries toward market usability,” said Hon. Minister Jon Reyes, Minister of Economic Development and Jobs. This type of growth and development is vital to our province’s future as this type of research creates jobs and strengthens Manitoba’s research enterprise and innovation ecosystem with solutions that will help people across this province and beyond.”

  “This new program brings together government, researchers, local companies and academic institutions, which fosters community development and provides local companies and industry the opportunity to enhance their skills, products, and technologies,” said Karen Dunlop CEO, Research Manitoba. “I congratulate each stakeholder group on their efforts and commitment to expand our province’s innovative capacities. Our team looks forward to seeing these projects unfold and the many outcomes that will follow.”

  Read the Full Release

  Congratulations to our Recipients!
  

• $1.9M Research Infrastructure Funding to Support Manitoba’s Research Leaders and Enhance Technology and Business Innovation

  

  Read the Full Release
  Manitoba's CFI CIIF and JELF Recipients List

  ---

• 2021 Research Competition Results - Trainee Awards and New Investigator Operating Grants

  

  July 28, 2021 – Today Research Manitoba and partners announced $1.37M in research funding and the recipients of the 2021 Grants and Awards competition. Funding will support 32 Master’s Studentships, seven PhD Studentships, two Postdoctoral Fellowships, and eight New Investigator Operating Grants in Manitoba in health, social sciences and humanities, and natural sciences and engineering. Research Manitoba invested $993,905 and our partners provided an additional $373,100 for the Trainee Awards.
  
  Our partners for the 2021 Awards Competition:

  - CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
  - Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba (CHRIM)
  - George & Fay Yee Centre for Healthcare Innovation (CHI)
  - Health Sciences Centre Foundation
  - Lung Association, Manitoba
  - University of Manitoba, Regenerative Medicine Program, WM Ross Scholarship

  The recipients of the 2021 Grants and Awards Competition are highly qualified Trainees and New Investigators in Manitoba. These awards enable recipients to prepare and train for their careers as independent researchers in industry or within the provincial research enterprise, establish independent research programs, and achieve the skills necessary to compete on a national level.

  Read the Full Release.

  Grants and Awards Recipients.

• Advancing Hip and Knee Joint Replacement Research in Manitoba

  

  Stepping Farther Together.

  Today Research Manitoba and the Concordia Foundation announced a partnership and $500,000 in research funding to support Dr. Thomas Turgeon as the Arthroplasty Research Chair at Concordia’s Hip and Knee Replacement Institute!

  This five-year Research Chair position will allow Dr. Turgeon and researchers at Concordia's Hip and Knee Institute to take a step forward in delivering world-class treatment, improving operating room efficiencies, and accelerating innovative approaches to healing the growing number of Manitobans living with hip and knee pain and disability.

  “We are very excited to be partnering with the Concordia Foundation on this important project. Advancements in care require research in many areas. This project will support our shared commitment to excellence by enabling Dr. Turgeon and his team to accelerate their research to help Manitobans get back on their feet and improve their lives.” Ms. Karen Dunlop, CEO, Research Manitoba.

  Read the full release.

• Research Manitoba and NSERC Launch the Alliance-Accelerate, Commercialize, Transform (ACT) Program

  

  (La version française suit)

  Fostering Innovation and Commercialization through Research

  Research Manitoba and NSERC Launch the Alliance-Accelerate, Commercialize, Transform (ACT) Program

  (Winnipeg, Manitoba) May 18, 2021 – Research Manitoba and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) are partnering to support industry-academic research and development collaborations to assist Manitoba-based small and medium enterprises’ (SMEs) innovations with the highest potential for provincial economic development and commercialization.

  The NSERC Alliance-Research Manitoba Accelerate, Commercialize, Transform (ACT) Program provides funding for eight new projects in the priority areas of Bioscience, Information and Communications Technology, Advanced Manufacturing, and/or Infrastructure and Transportation Industries and Technologies. It will give Manitoba-based SMEs and university researchers in the natural sciences and engineering fields, the opportunity to leverage federal and provincial research funding to advance promising innovations toward commercialization.

  This two-year grant offers industry-academic research teams the opportunity to match Manitoba-based SME funding. Research Manitoba will match the contributions at a 1:1 ratio, up to $25,000 per year for up to two years, and NSERC will match cash contributions from all recognized partners at a 2:1 ratio, from $20,000 to $1 million per year for up to five years.

  The NSERC Alliance-Research Manitoba Accelerate, Commercialize, Transform (ACT) Program will begin accepting applications on May 18, 2021. For more details, please visit the Research Manitoba and NSERC websites.

  Read More

  Favoriser l’innovation et la commercialisation grâce à la recherche

  Research Manitoba et le CRSNG annoncent la création des subventions Alliance-ACT (Accelerate, Commercialize, Transform)

  Winnipeg (Manitoba), le 18 mai 2021 – Research Manitoba et le Conseil de recherches en sciences naturelles et en génie du Canada (CRSNG) travaillent en partenariat pour appuyer les collaborations universités-industrie en recherche et développement (R et D) visant à aider les petites et moyennes entreprises (PME) établies au Manitoba à mettre au point des innovations hautement susceptibles d’être commercialisées et de favoriser le développement économique de la province.

  Les subventions Alliance (CRSNG)-ACT (Research Manitoba) seront accordées à huit nouveaux projets menés dans l’un des domaines prioritaires suivants : biosciences, technologies de l’information et des communications, fabrication de pointe, et technologies et industries des infrastructures et du transport. Cette possibilité de financement permettra aux PME établies au Manitoba et aux chercheurs universitaires en sciences naturelles et en génie d’obtenir des fonds fédéraux et provinciaux pour la recherche visant à perfectionner des innovations prometteuses en vue de leur commercialisation.

  La subvention de deux ans offre à des équipes de recherche universités-industrie la possibilité d’obtenir un montant correspondant à la contribution de la PME établie au Manitoba. Research Manitoba accordera un montant égal à la contribution de la PME (ratio de 1:1), jusqu’à un maximum de 25 000 $ par an pendant au plus deux ans. Quant au CRSNG, il déterminera le montant de la subvention en fonction des contributions en espèces de tous les partenaires reconnus, selon un ratio de 2:1; sa subvention se situera entre 20 000 $ et un million de dollars par an, pendant un maximum de cinq ans.

  Les demandes de subvention Alliance (CRSNG)-ACT (Research Manitoba) seront acceptées à partir du le 18 mai 2021. Pour en savoir plus, consultez le site Web de Research Manitoba et celui du CRSNG.

  Lire la Suite

• Four Manitoba Companies Receive Funding for COVID-19 Research

  

  May 3, 2021 - Research Manitoba is investing and leveraging more than a half-million dollars to support the provincial COVID-19 response by championing local industry-academic research partnerships.

  Research Manitoba’s $361,442 investment will support four COVID-19 Innovation Proof-of-Concept grants, as well as leverage $165,000 from other sources to provide a total of $525,442 to support this vital work.

  This support for four innovative Manitoba-based companies will create opportunities for employment and talent development, industrial research and technology collaborations to advance virtual lifestyle programming, COVID-19 testing, personal protective equipment (PPE) and infection prevention. 
  
  Chronic Disease Innovation Centre (CDIC)/Fusion Group/ Wellness Institute/University of Manitoba
  Intrinsic Analytics Inc./St. Boniface Research Centre/University of Manitoba
  Protective Textiles International (PTEX)/St. Boniface Research Centre/University of Manitoba
  utR Biotech/University of Manitoba

  Read the Full Release

• NEW CONTEST GIVES MANITOBANS CHANCE TO NAME STATE-OF-THE-ART TELEPRESENCE ROBOTS

  

  April 20, 2021
  
  Winnipeg, MB – Victoria General Hospital Foundation, Research Manitoba and the College of Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Manitoba’s Rady Faculty of Health Sciences announced a contest today to name 15 new telepresence robots. Participants can submit names through The Vic Foundation website at TheVicFoundation.ca for their chance to win a special prize package.
  
  These telepresence robots are part of a new study by UM researchers which will assess whether these robots can effectively support informal caregivers of individuals living with dementia. This study was funded through an inaugural strategic partnership between The Vic Foundation and Research Manitoba.

  The strategic partnership between The Vic Foundation and Research Manitoba is designed to promote innovation, support local research, and advance the economy.
  
  “Our partnership with The Vic Foundation is very exciting for us and the many talented researchers working on this community-based project,” says Karen Dunlop, Chief Executive Officer of Research Manitoba. “Because it has the potential to advance bioscience innovation in our province and impact families, caregivers, and individuals living with dementia. This contest is a unique way for Manitobans to connect with and champion the research community.”
  
  Manitobans have until May 14, 2021 to submit their names, and the winners will be announced on social media on May 21. 2021.
  
  Read the Full Release

  Enter the Contest - Here

• $5.4M Research Infrastructure Funding Supports Cutting-Edge Research in Manitoba

  

  April 13, 2021 - Today, Research Manitoba announced a $5,396,813 research infrastructure funding investment for seven, state-of-the-art projects at the University of Manitoba and The University of Winnipeg. These projects are also supported through the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) Innovation Fund and leverage $8.1M into our province.

  Supporting these innovative projects will drive Manitoba’s researchers to the forefront of national and global research areas such as mother-infant health, quantum materials, and subatomic physics and will provide opportunities to manufacture medical imaging devices and create new technologies. The funding will aid the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) and promote reconciliation through acknowledgement as the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation's (NCTR) implements a digital architecture, which enables innovative research meaningful to Indigenous communities.

  “These projects allow Manitoba to continue to be innovative in a number of critical fields,” said Ralph Eichler, Minister of Economic Development and Jobs. “Our government will continue to support these research investments, which will benefit all Manitobans and provide economic growth through involvement of our local industries.”

  “Providing opportunities for Manitoba’s researchers and innovators to partner here at home is essential for the future of our province, said Karen Dunlop, Chief Executive Officer at Research Manitoba. “I congratulate all of our Innovation Fund recipients on their success and know that their work will advance research in Manitoba and improve many aspects of our society.”

  Click here to read the Full Release and to see the Recipient listing.

• Research Manitoba Announces New CEO

  

  February 9, 2021 – Research Manitoba, a provincial research funding agency, today announced Karen Dunlop as new Chief Executive Officer.

  The Board of Directors would like to thank the Research Manitoba team for their efforts and Sean McKay, Interim CEO, for his direction and contributions in recent months; the momentum recently achieved has the organization well-positioned to forge ahead.

  The Board welcomes Karen and the expertise and wealth of knowledge she brings to this role; she has served in a number of senior leadership capacities over the past 20 years and her capabilities include transforming organizations in the healthcare, professional regulation, insurance, and professional services sectors in Manitoba. Karen’s skills and certification in leadership, change management, governance, and executive coaching will serve as an excellent foundation as she guides the organization to advance research in Manitoba and to champion the province’s research community.

  “Karen is a proven leader; her operational experience, breadth of knowledge, and keen ability to connect with stakeholders will allow Research Manitoba to focus on increasing Manitoba’s global competitiveness through strategic investment in world-class research,” said Andrea Legary, Research Manitoba Board Chair. “Together we will continue to build the Research Manitoba success story.”

  Read the Full Release

• Appointment of Ms. Andrea Legary as Board Chair

  

  December 21, 2020 - Research Manitoba announces the appointment of Ms. Andrea Legary as the new Chair of the Board of Directors.

  Ms. Legary, who joined Research Manitoba’s board in 2019, succeeds Ms. Tracey Maconachie, who served as Chair until her recent appointment to the position of Deputy Minister for the Department of Economic Development and Training.

  We are also excited to share the premiere of our new video Building Our Future Through Investments in Research. An overview of Manitoba’s world-class research and innovation enterprise and the connection to our communities, our economy, and our future.

  Read the Full Release

  

• Research Manitoba and Boehringer Ingelheim Canada Partnership to Invest in Diabetes Care in Indigenous Populations in Manitoba

  

  November 30, 2020 - Winnipeg Manitoba. Research Manitoba and Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. are excited to announce a new partnership, with the creation of the Boehringer Ingelheim-Research Manitoba (BI-RM) Partnership Fund. The fund will support community-based research and innovation projects focused on improving diabetes health outcomes within Indigenous communities in Manitoba.

  Support from the BI-RM Partnership Fund will align with the province of Manitoba’s Shared Health Clinical and Preventative Services Plan, and Boehringer Ingelheim Canada’s PATHWAYS – Indigenous Health Collaborations, a partnership established with Bimaadzwin intended to empower Indigenous communities in improving health and wellness.

   “We are very excited about entering into this collaboration with our renowned partner, Boehringer Ingelheim Canada, to provide support for Indigenous-led projects to improve health systems and patient care in their communities,” said Sean McKay, Interim CEO, Research Manitoba. “This is the second of what we anticipate to be many collaborations through Research Manitoba’s recently launched Strategic Partnerships Program that aims to leverage relationships and funding to significantly increase the amount of research carried out in Manitoba for the benefit of the community at large.”

  Click here to read the full release

• Research Manitoba Announces Strategic Partnership and Funding for Health Research Innovation in Manitoba

  

  September 24, 2020 – Winnipeg, Manitoba. Honourable Ralph Eichler, Minister of Economic Development and Training, launched Research Manitoba’s first Strategic Partnership with the Victoria General Hospital Foundation (VGHF). Today the partners announced $470,000 in research funding to support a health research competition to begin in the Fall of 2020 ($110,000) and a research study, which uses telepresence robots to remotely interact between persons with dementia (PWD) and their caregivers to extend stay at home care opportunities ($360,000).

  “Our province is committed to ensuring that our research and innovation investments are aligned with industry need and health care priorities,” said Ralph Eichler, Minister of Economic Development and Training. “This partnership will lay the groundwork for meaningful health and economic outcomes, while improving the health and well-being of all Manitobans.”

  This strategic partnership is a model for other partnerships, bringing together industry and research, supporting innovation in Manitoba. The Strategic Partnership Program engages with new sectors of industry, builds collaborations that create economic growth, provides employment opportunities, and supports local talent.

  Click here to read the full release

  

   

• Research Manitoba Funds COVID-19 Rapid Response Grants and Clinical Trials in Manitoba

  
  
  September 4, 2020 – Winnipeg, Manitoba. Today Research Manitoba announced $3.8M in research funding to support the recipients of the Manitoba COVID-19 Rapid Response Grant Competition and eight Manitoba clinical trials related to COVID-19 and applied health research.  This funding has leveraged a further $5.6M from our partners to provide a total of $9.4M to support this essential work.

  “Our government is committed to keeping Manitobans healthy and safe, especially as we navigate the current global pandemic. Manitoba is home to a highly-skilled, world-class research community who are on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19. This funding partnership with Research Manitoba will provide substantial financial support for cutting-edge research and clinical trials to address the effects of this virus.” - Hon. Cameron Friesen, Minister of Health, Seniors and Active Living.

  “Earlier this year the Province of Manitoba provided Research Manitoba with an opportunity to support clinical trials and applied health research related to COVID-19” said Sean McKay, Interim CEO, Research Manitoba. “As a result, we immediately stimulated strong partnerships and provided funding opportunities for our world class Manitoba-based research teams to participate in the global response. It is heartening to see how our provincial government, researcher and stakeholder communities have so rapidly come together to support this crucial research.”

  Click here to read the full release
  Click here to see the list of recipients

• Supporting Local Talent and Research Excellence in Manitoba

  
  
  August 28, 2020 – Today Research Manitoba and partners announced $1,182,361 in research funding to support 30 Master’s Studentships, two PhD Studentships, two Postdoctoral Fellowships, and seven New Investigator Operating Grants in Manitoba in health, social sciences and humanities, and natural sciences and engineering.

  The recipients of the 2020 Grants and Awards Competition are highly qualified trainees and new investigators in health, natural sciences and engineering, and social sciences and humanities in Manitoba. The Grants and Awards prepare recipients for careers as independent researchers in industry or within Manitoba’s research enterprise and help to establish independent research programs and achieve the research productivity necessary to compete on a national level.

  Click here to read the full release
  Click here to see the list of Grant and Award recipients

• Research Manitoba Announces Appointment of Interim CEO

  

  Wednesday, August 19, 2020 - Research Manitoba announces today the appointment of Mr. Sean McKay, as Interim Chief Executive Officer.

  “Mr. McKay is an experienced professional who brings a broad range of skills acquired through his leadership positions in a variety of industry and research settings and will make an excellent addition to the team,” said Ms. Tracey Maconachie, Research Manitoba Board Chair. “All of us at Research Manitoba look forward to working with Sean as we continue to support the provincial research enterprise.”

  “I am looking forward to applying my experience and network connections to support Research Manitoba during this transitional period and especially excited to be involved in the introduction of new programs advancing leading edge research in Manitoba and the implementation of the Research Improvements Through Harmonization In Manitoba (RITHIM) initiative.” Mr. Sean McKay, Interim CEO, Research Manitoba.

  Click here to read the full release

• Manitoba Companies Receive Funding for COVID-19 Innovation Proof-of-Concept Grants

  

  August 11, 2020 – Winnipeg, Manitoba
  Today Research Manitoba is pleased to announce a $250,000 investment to support two COVID-19 Innovation Proof-of-Concept (IPoC) Grants to local companies Adva Diagnostics Inc. and Cubresa Inc. These grants will support innovative research projects from these Manitoba-based companies who have the expertise to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

  Adva Diagnostic Inc., a venture of InnovoXL, received $150,000 for their project to develop new on the spot tests for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases, which can help us safely return to work and more normal lives. Adva will provide $33,750 in-kind toward their IPoC Grant with an additional $112,500 from Mitacs.

  Cubresa Inc. received $100,000, which builds on their expertise in creating new imaging tools, making them safe to use with highly infectious diseases like SARS COV-2. This is a critical step to understanding and developing new treatments for the disease. Cubresa will provide $36,500 in-kind toward their IPoC Grant.

  Click here to read the full release

• Manitoba’s First Indigenous Research Chair in Nursing

  
  
  Mentoring the Next Generation of Nursing Leaders
  June 25, 2020 – Winnipeg, Manitoba
  Today Research Manitoba announced $258,500 in research funding to support Manitoba’s first Indigenous Research Chair in Nursing: Wanda Phillips-Beck, Seven Generations Scholar, RN, MSc, PhD(c) and the project titled ‘Mentoring Nurse Leaders and Researchers in Indigenous Health Grounded in Culturally and Equity Informed Approaches to Research and Education’.

  Ms. Wanda Phillips-Beck is associated with the First Nations Health and Social Secretariat of Manitoba (FNHSSM) and the project is supported in partnership with the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), and the Canadian Nurses Foundation (CNF). Together the investment totals $985,000:
  - Research Manitoba: $258,500
  - CIHR: $699,500
  - CNF: $27,000

  Click here to read the full release.

• $5-MILLION FUND FOR RESEARCH PROJECTS RELATED TO COVID-19

  April 8, 2020 - New Fund to Advance Strides Toward Vaccines and Treatments for Coronavirus

  

  A new, $5-million COVID-19 research fund through Research Manitoba was announced today by Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Cameron Friesen.

  “This new fund will support a clinical trial to determine if a commonly used drug can safely be used as a treatment for COVID-19,” said Friesen.  “The fund will also provide support for local researchers to develop solutions to health-care issues in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

  In February, following a recommendation from Dr. Brent Roussin, chief provincial public health officer, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, with numerous partners, launched a funding opportunity for 10 clinical research professionals to test therapies to mitigate the rapid spread of COVID-19.

  “This virus is one of the most serious public health emergencies the world has faced in many years,” said Roussin.  “This fund will ensure important research can take place to help fight this virus and develop new ways to identify and treat patients, as well as develop strong partnerships to move this work forward.”

  “We are proud to partner with Research Manitoba on this important work,” said Economic Development and Training Minister Ralph Eichler.  “Agile and innovative thinking is what we need in rapidly evolving times such as these, and investments into research and development will help advance our understanding and ability to treat COVID-19.”

  Local clinical and scientific researchers and senior officials from the Manitoba government, Shared Health and the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA) have identified several new research projects.  These include projects to test possible treatments in clinical trials, better understand how the disease is developing in Manitoba and better understand how the health system needs to react to different complications that are emerging around the world.

  “We are pleased to refocus our research efforts on vital clinical trials and potential interventions in the fight against COVID-19,” said Tracey Maconachie, chair, Research Manitoba.  “Our world-renowned partners are conducting leading-edge research that could expedite treatments for Manitobans and all Canadians.”

  More than $3.5 million will be used to support clinical and applied research including $700,000 for Manitoba’s first COVID-19 clinical trial for a drug to fight this virus, the minister said.  The study will test whether or not the drug hydroxychloroquine, used to treat rheumatology issues, can prevent people from contracting COVID-19.  The scientific trial will determine if the drug can safely be used as a treatment for COVID-19.

  “We are building on the work of preliminary studies to look at how this drug could help fight the spread of COVID-19,” said Dr. Ryan Zarychanski, associate professor, department of internal medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba and department of medical oncology and hematology, CancerCare Manitoba.  “We are asking Manitobans who meet the study’s criteria to consider joining this trial to help us scientifically prove the benefits for Manitobans and people around the world.”

  An additional $500,000 will be invested in partnerships with industry and philanthropic sources supporting existing trials based in Manitoba but with sites across Canada and in seven other countries around the world, Friesen said, adding $1 million will be invested in COVID-19 innovation projects including looking at the development of diagnostic tools.

  “While we have learned a great deal about this virus in just a few months, there are many more questions that need to be answered,” said Friesen.  “These investments will help contribute to the world’s understanding of the virus and make important strides toward vaccines, treatments and possible changes to our health system to better combat COVID-19.”

  Cick here to see the Provincial News Release

  Manitobans who wish to participate in the clinical trial can visit www.covid-19research.ca for additional details.

  For more information on COVID-19, visit www.manitoba.ca/covid19.

  A comprehensive list of Manitoba government COVID-19 measures can be found at https://manitoba.ca/bg/2020/04/covid19.html

   

   

• Research Manitoba Funds Manitoba-led COVID-19 Research Projects

  March 20, 2020 – Winnipeg, Manitoba

  Today Research Manitoba announced that they are partnering with the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) to invest $800,000 to support three research projects through the Canadian 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Rapid Research Funding Opportunity. The researchers are:

  • Adolf Ng - An Investigation on Epidemic Logistical Response and Planning: The Case of Novel Coronavirus (Covid-19) - $258,900 – fully funded by Research Manitoba
  • Bradley Pickering, Development of field-deployable and point-of-need diagnostics for SARS-CoV-2 using CRISPR-based technology - $411,820 ($270,550 Research Manitoba and $140,270 CIHR)
  • Xiao-Jian Yao, Development of a novel DC-targeting vaccine that targets COVID-19 spike protein to control COVID-19 infection - $597,128 ($270,550 Research Manitoba and $326,578 CIHR)

  These are 3 of 16 projects supported by CIHR in Manitoba and of 96 projects across Canada that will focus on developing and implementing measures to rapidly detect, manage, and reduce the transmission of COVID-19.

  “Investing in COVID-19 research is a global priority,” said Christina Weise, CEO of Research Manitoba. “We are pleased to support these three local teams, which are part of a worldwide scientific effort in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.” 

  Click here to read the full release

  

• 2020 Research Manitoba/Rady Faculty of Health Sciences Graduate Entrance Scholarship

  March 20, 2020
  Research Manitoba and the University of Manitoba Rady Faculty of Health Sciences are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2020 Research Manitoba/Rady Faculty of Health Sciences Graduate Entrance Scholarship!

  All applicants are welcome to log into their GMS account to check the status of their application. Comments from reviewers will be posted for early April.  

  If you require any technical support with the GMS please email helpdesk@researchmb.ca.

  If you have any questions regarding your award please contact Dr. Hope Anderson, Vice-Dean Graduate Studies, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences at: hope.anderson@umanitoba.ca.

  Click here to see the list of recipients

  

• COVID-19 Update #1

  Research Manitoba is actively monitoring the emerging and rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation. We are taking proactive measures to ensure that we maintain a safe environment for our staff, review committees, and stakeholders.  Visitors to Research Manitoba: The organization is transitioning face-to-face meetings to virtual or teleconference formats until further notice. The new approach is a safeguard as Research Manitoba's ongoing business is important and meetings should continue.  Office Hours and Availability: As of March 15, 2020 we are enabling employees to work from home to help slow the spread of the virus. Our employees will continue to be available during office hours Monday to Friday via their email and office phone numbers. We will revisit this decision in early April.  Should anything change, updates will be provided.  News and Information: Our updates and news will be available at https://researchmanitoba.ca/about/news-releases/.  You can also follow us on Twitter - @Research_MB. Questions or Concerns: If you have questions or concerns about our programs or funding please email us at helpdesk@researchmb.ca or visit the website. Our help desk hours are from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday. We may take up to 24 hours to respond at this time. We sincerely appreciate your patience and flexibility. Thank you, From all of us at Research Manitoba

• COVID-19 - Travel Cancellations

  March 12, 2020

  Given the rapidly changing situation involving COVID-19, Research Manitoba recognizes that there may be an impact on researchers with plans to travel for meetings or other research-related activities.

  Individuals may decide to cancel trips as a result of various considerations and factors such as cancelled conferences, travel advisories (including those from Health Canada and Global Affairs Canada), or personal choice due to health or other concerns.

  Research Manitoba confirms that the reimbursement of non-refundable travel fees from our research funds is acceptable considering the impacts of COVID-19. This applies to the travel of both principal investigators and research personnel, when cancellation occurs as described above.

  If you have any questions regarding this please contact helpdesk@researchmb.ca.

• Mitacs Internships Create Emerging Opportunities for Industry in Manitoba

  March 10, 2020, Winnipeg, MB – Today, Research Manitoba and Mitacs announced the release of an Impact Report titled: Research Partnerships in Manitoba Leverage Innovation.

  Research Manitoba collaborated with Mitacs to develop this report to describe the results and impacts of Manitoba-based research and communicate the impacts to a wide variety of audiences. Some of the key results published in the report include:

  -Research Manitoba invested $850,000, which supported 221 internships — leveraging $5.7 million from industry and national partners in 2018–19 for research in Manitoba
  -Investing in interns creates jobs in Manitoba
  -The students developing unique skills and expertise enhance and strengthen Manitoba’s workforce
  -Economic growth in Manitoba is created through the expansion of and innovations developed by Mitacs partner companies

  Click here to read the full release
  Click here to read the Impact Report

   

  

• $1 Million Investment in Prairie Research Kitchen

  November 7, 2019
  Investment in Red River College's Culinary Research Laboratory Supports Province's Dynamic Food Industry

  The Manitoba government is investing $1 million through Research Manitoba in  innovative culinary research at Red River College (RRC), Economic Development and Training Minister Ralph Eichler announced today.
  
  “This investment helps further cutting-edge research in Manitoba’s agriculture and food industry, and bring new ideas and products to life,” said Eichler at the grand opening of RRC’s Prairie Research Kitchen.  “Culinary research is an area of tremendous opportunity.  The Prairie Research Kitchen provides a pathway to developing agri-food products that are not only good for our health, but are good for the Manitoba economy.”
  
  The Prairie Research Kitchen at RRC’s Paterson GlobalFoods Institute will provide a dedicated workspace for culinary research and innovation that will serve Western Canada’s food production industry.  The facility brings together food scientists, culinary arts and small-to-medium sized businesses to develop new products and teach culinary students food science skills.

  Click here to read the full release

  Click here to learn more about Culinary Research and Innovation

  

• Investing in Manitoba's Future

  September 25, 2019
  $1.24M Investment in research will support Master’s Students and Early Career Researchers
  
  Research Manitoba announced today $1,293,295 in research funding to support 25 Master’s students and 12 early career researchers in Manitoba.

  “By investing in these individuals, we are advancing our province’s world class research enterprise, growing Manitoba’s economy, and developing talent for today and tomorrow,” said Christina Weise, Chief Executive Officer at Research Manitoba. “Research is a driver of Manitoba’s prosperity and we would like to thank our partners who have been with us on this journey for the last several years.”

  CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba (CHRIM), Health Sciences Centre Foundation, and the Lung Association, Manitoba are providing an additional $100,950 in support of the 2019 Master’s Studentships.
  
  

  Click here to read the full release
  
  Click here to see the list of Master's Students and New Investigators

  

  Research Manitoba CEO, Ms Christina Weise, announcing $1.24 M in research funding for Master's students and early career researchers.

• 2018 John R. Evans Leaders Fund Awards

  March 14, 2019
  Funding our Future through Research Excellence
  
  

  Research Manitoba announced today $1,151,730 in research funding for seven University of Manitoba projects supported through the John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF) of the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI). The Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Sport, was in Winnipeg to announce matching federal funds and to celebrate the achievements of the Manitoba awardees.

  Click here to read the full release

  

• Announcement - 2018 Trainee Awards

  Research Competition Update:
  
  Results for the 2018 Trainee Award Competition are now available.

  Applicants can login to their GMS accounts to learn their score and whether they have been offered funding.

  Click here to see the 2018 Trainee Award List

• 2018 GRANTS & AWARDS COMPETITION

  May 3, 2018

  The 2018 Grants and Awards Competition is now open.

  MASTER’S TRAINEE PROGRAM:
  • Application Deadline is FRIDAY, JUNE 8, 2018 (4:00PM CST)
  • Referee letter deadline is Friday, June 22, 2018 (4:00PM CST)

  There will be up to 11 awards will be awarded in each category (health, social sciences and the humanities, natural sciences and engineering)
  • Awarded on a competitive basis and are valued at $12,000 annually
  • Will begin on September 1st, 2018 for a 1-year period
  • For more info please visit our webpage -  Master's Studentships

  NEW INVESTIGATOR PROGRAM:
  • Application Deadline is TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 (4:00PM CST)
  • Referee letter deadline is Tuesday, August 14, 2018 (4:00PM CST)

  • $65,000 per year in the Health category
  • $25,000 per year in the Natural Sciences and Engineering category
  • $20,000 per year in the Social Sciences and Humanities category
  • The amount of funds that may be used for equipment is limited to $10,000 (for small equipment), over the two years of the grant
  • For more information please visit our webpage - New Investigator Operating Grants

  Click here to read the full release.

• Research Manitoba Announces Programs for 2018/19

  April 30, 2018
  
  We would like to thank the research community for being patient over the last year as Research Manitoba underwent a strategic planning process. The intent of the process was to provide our organization with a road map and establish a spectrum of funding programs that would bring the most impact to the Provincial research enterprise.

  Research Manitoba’s strategic plan for 2018/19 to 2020/21 is the result of extensive engagement with our internal and external stakeholders and identifies areas of emphasis and critical issues that need to be addressed over the next three years. The plan sets out our high-level strategic goals for the next three years, which are: support the generation of research, impact policy and practice through knowledge translation, and strengthen capacity for research in Manitoba.

  Click here to read the full release.

• Research Manitoba - Budget

  A Message from Ms. Christina Weise, Chief Executive Officer, Research Manitoba

  March 14, 2018

  Research Manitoba has a new annual budget of $12 million, which is a $3 million reduction from the 2017/18 fiscal year. We will continue to promote and support, and coordinate the funding of, research in the health, natural and social sciences, engineering and the humanities in Manitoba.

  The Board of Directors and staff are in the final stages of an extensive strategic review of our activities. These efforts will help us to forge a new set of programs and organizational direction, which will be announced shortly.

  We are committed to keeping our stakeholders and members of the research community informed throughout this process.

  Please send all inquiries or questions to info@researchmb.ca.
  Follow @ResearchMB on twitter for news and updates.

  Click HERE  for a PDF of the message.

• SPOR - Networks in Chronic Disease

  RESEARCH PROGRAMS RECEIVE FUNDING TO IMPROVE LIVES OF CHRONIC DISEASE PATIENTS
  
  Manitoba's Researchers Leading Innovation, Improvements in Patient Health Outcomes
  September 19, 2017

  Four University of Manitoba research teams have received funding for studies
  investigating kidney disease, diabetes, children’s brain development
  and inflammatory bowel disease, Growth, Enterprise and Trade
  Minister Blaine Pedersen announced today.

  Click here to read the full release

• SPOR Network - Innovation in Pediatric Clinical Trials (IPCT) Project

  PRESCRIBING THE RIGHT MEDICINE FOR CHILDREN

  8.4 million in new research funding for national partnerships
  June 16, 2017

  Today, the University of Manitoba announced more than $8.4 million in new research funding provided by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Research Manitoba, and the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba in partnership with other institutions across Canada.

  Led by Dr. Terry Klassen in the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Manitoba, the SPOR Network - Innovation in Pediatric Clinical Trials (IPCT) Project will use real patients under carefully controlled situations to measure how well a medication works and how safe it is. Knowledge gained from trials will help doctors choose which medicines to prescribe.
  
  Click here to download the full release.

  

  Photo from left to right:

  Dr. Jay Doering, Associate Vice-President (Partnerships), University of Manitoba

  Mr. Terry Duguid, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South, and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Status of Women

  Dr. Terry Klassen, CEO and Scientific Director Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba; Professor and Head, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba;  Medical Director, Child Health Program, WRHA; and Academic Director, CHI

  Dr. Brian Postl, Dean, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences & Vice-Provost (Health Sciences), University of Manitoba, and Chair, Research Manitoba

   The Honourable Cliff Cullen, Minister of Growth, Enterprise and Trade, Province of Manitoba
  
  Mr. Lawrence Prout, President and CEO, Children's Hospital Foundation of Manitoba Inc.

• Research Manitoba - New Budget

  April 13, 2017

  A Message from Dr. Brian Postl, Chair of Research Manitoba Board of Directors:

  Research Manitoba has a new annual budget of $15 million, which is a $2 million reduction from previous years. We will continue to promote and support, and coordinate the funding of, research in the health, natural and social sciences, engineering and the humanities in Manitoba.

  The Board of Directors and staff are reviewing our budget and expected expenditures in the short term and will be undertaking a longer term strategic review of our activities.  We are committed to keeping our stakeholders and members of the research community informed throughout this process.

  Please send all inquiries or questions to info@researchmb.ca.
  Follow @ResearchMB on twitter for news and updates.

  Click here for the release.

• MANITOBA AND GENOME CANADA INVEST IN RESEARCH IN CANADA’S ARCTIC - GENICE Project

  $4 Million Investment for Genomics Research in Oil Spill Preparedness and Emergency Response in Arctic Marine Environment

  Research Manitoba and The Government of Canada today announced $4 million in funding for GENICE: a large-scale applied research project (LSARP). LSARP is one of Genome Canada’s funding programs and is aimed at projects using genomic approaches to address challenges and opportunities of importance to Canada’s natural resources, including interactions between natural resources and the environment, thereby contributing to Canada’s bioeconomy and the well-being of Canadians.

  Click here to download the full release.

  (Photo from left to right)
  Dr. Digvir Jayas, Vice-President (Research and International) and Distinguished Professor, University of Manitoba
  Ms. Christina Weise, Chief Executive Officer, Research Manitoba
  Dr. Simon Potter, Director of Operations, Genome Prairie
  Dr. Gary Stern, Research Professor, Centre for Earth Observation Science (CEOS), University of Manitoba
  Dr. Casey Hubert, Associate Professor, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary
  Ms. Sarah Guillemard, MLA for Fort Richmond
  Terry Duguid, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development; Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South

  

• $1.4M in Funding for MITACS

  Research Manitoba and Mitacs announce funding to support innovation,
  job creation, and skills development

  December 2, 2015 -  Today, Research Manitoba announced $1.4 million of funding to support research internships between researchers and local companies or not-for-profits.
  Mitacs connects companies and not-for-profit organizations with local experts in the academic community to address their research and development challenges. These collaborations promote innovation in Manitoba.

  Click here to download the full release

  

• Manitoba Dementia Research Chair

  PROVINCE ANNOUNCES MORE MONEY FOR DEMENTIA RESEARCH IN MANITOBA

  August 18, 2015 - More investments for research into dementia are being made through Research Manitoba and in partnership with the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, Jobs and Economy Minister Kevin Chief announced today.

  “With an aging population, there has never been a more important time to profile dementia research,” said Minister Chief.  “We understand the contribution our seniors have made to this province and today’s announcement will put more resources in place so that we can better understand the best ways to treat and diagnose dementia.”

  Today’s announcement recognizes Dr. Benedict Albensi as the recipient of the Manitoba Dementia Research Chair.  Albensi is a professor in the department of pharmacology and therapeutics, faculty of health sciences, college of medicine, University of Manitoba and principal investigator, synaptic plasticity and cellular memory dysfunction in the neurodegenerative disorders division of St-Boniface Hospital Research Centre.

  Click here to download the full release

  

• 2014 Applied Health Services Research Recipients

  January 6, 2015 - Research Manitoba is pleased to announce the 2014 Applied Health Services Research Grants. The funds that support Research Manitoba’s Applied Health Services Grants are provided through the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.
  Research Manitoba partnered with Manitoba Health, the regional health authorities, and the George and Fay Yee Centre for Healthcare Innovation (CHI) to support applied health services research. This focus area is important to the health system in Manitoba and supports collaborations between policy makers, service providers, and researchers interested in working together to address health system challenges.

  Click here to download the full release

• Province Establishes Research Manitoba

  The Manitoba government is establishing Research Manitoba, a new research funding organization that will bring existing research funding sources into a single, co-ordinated organization, under the chairmanship of Dr. Brian Postl, Jobs and the Economy Minister Theresa Oswald announced today.

  Click here to download the full release

• National MS Clinical Trial Receives Approval, Patients Recruitment to Start by November 1

  Halifax, September 28, 2012

  The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health, today announced that a national MS clinical trial has received the necessary medical and ethical approvals required to proceed. The clinical trial is a collaborative initiative between the Government of Canada, the provinces and territories and the MS Society of Canada.

  Click here to download the full release (PDF). 

• MHRC PROVIDES UPDATE ON MS CLINICAL TRIALS

  September 27, 2012

  The Manitoba Health Research Council (MHRC) today provided an update on the national call for proposals for clinical trials for studying the treatments for CCSVI in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). 

  Click here to download the full release (PDF).