Biotechnology leverages biological organisms, processes and systems to develop products and solutions for various applications. It encompasses a wide range of sectors, including medicine, agriculture and environmental science, and it has the potential to enhance human quality of life and transform how we tackle major global challenges. It has been significantly revolutionized by genomics research, which provides a deeper understanding of the genetic basis of life. This knowledge has enabled researchers to manipulate and understand biological systems at a molecular level, driving research, invention and innovation across multiple sectors.
As a core delivery instrument of the Canadian Genomics Strategy, Genome Canada’s Genomic Applications Partnership Program (GAPP) funds research and development projects that support public-private innovation. Each project involves collaborations between academic researchers and industry receptors—organizations positioned to apply research outcomes to address market opportunities or operational needs that have been identified by the private sector (these receptor organizations are hereafter referred to simply as “receptors”). These projects help leverage public investment in innovation, encourage industry investment in genomics and biotechnology research in Canada, and generate co-investment in market-driven research and development (R&D). They improve knowledge transfer from public institutions to Canadian companies to commercialize cutting-edge research and support our innovation value chain.
The national stream of the GAPP drives innovation and economic growth across Canada by ensuring that cutting-edge research in genomics and biotechnology is effectively translated into market-ready solutions to enhance the country’s competitive edge. The program strengthens the national innovation value chain by improving knowledge transfer from public institutions to Canadian companies, thereby supporting the commercialization of research and fostering a robust, inclusive innovation ecosystem.
A regional stream of the GAPP will also be deployed through the regional Genome Centres to focus on areas of strategic priority to each region. Please contact your regional Genome Centre for more information.