A national research organization is calling on businesses to knock on its door if they have an idea to help combat COVID-19. Mitacs, a government-funded organization that designs research and training programs, is offering to help fast-track any idea if it can help in dealing with the pandemic.
鈥淥ur team is committed to supporting the development of innovative solutions for sa国际传媒 and the world,鈥� said John Hepburn, chief executive of Mitacs. 鈥�
In response to federal and provincial government announcements of funding for coronavirus research, our 80 business development experts nationwide are poised to guide [small and medium enterprises] through the process and give them access to the talent and tools needed to succeed.鈥�
Mitacs鈥� initiative will help expedite coronavirus-related projects by securing government funding, accessing resources for research, development and equipment, and hiring post-secondary interns, to develop each idea. Part of the program will see Mitacs cover 75 per cent of a post-secondary researcher鈥檚 salary ($15,000) for a four-month internship.
鈥淭his increased funding leverage is unprecedented in Mitacs鈥檚 20-year history,鈥� Hepburn said.
Mitacs is already helping Canadian researchers with projects ranging from improved facial masks to a COVID-19 vaccine, he said. The organization鈥檚 business development team is also serving as connectors for calls for highly needed specialty equipment, including 3-D printers and ventilators.
