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Manitoba Innovation Framework

Introduction

High performance knowledge-based countries around the world are actively integrating innovation initiatives to increase investment, create new enterprises and open up new job opportunities.

The goals of these countries’ strategies are to sustain and enhance high standards of living and quality of life for their citizens.

The networks that drive innovation systems require governments to create policies that enhance and encourage links among all participants in the system. A strategic approach to innovation ensures the actions needed to support knowledge-based economic development are implemented.

Innovation systems that are developed, strengthened and revitalized as a result of this approach are critical to support higher economic growth rates.

The innovation process affects science, technology, culture, economics and society. The human factor is critical to successful innovation and must influence any innovation strategy.

Increasing the innovative capacity of all participants in the economy is essential in creating economic vitality, jobs and an enhanced quality of life. Innovation is a basic element in all development. To accelerate Manitoba's economic growth, we need a clearly articulated vision for the role of innovation, science and technology.

Innovation policies must reflect the unique assets, priorities and strengths of our region. One of Manitoba’s key strengths is its economic diversity. This document provides a framework for innovation activities as we move forward in an environment of increased global opportunity and competitiveness.

The purpose of the Innovation Framework is:

  • To foster an environment favourable for sustainable economic growth, job creation and quality of life for Manitobans by enhancing the innovative capacity of all participants in the economy.

Next: Actions Already Initiated

 

  
Downtown Winnipeg

Global Perspective

A renewed focus on innovation in Manitoba is consistent with strategic initiatives around the world as well as our local and federal governments. Manitoba is moving forward with an innovation strategy designed to build on the strengths of our industry, human resources and innovation infrastructure. Our strategy strives to ensure continuing synergies with strategies by the City of Winnipeg (A Homegrown Economic Development Strategy) and the federal government (Canada's Innovation Strategy: Achieving Excellence).

Manitoba’s Innovation Framework incorporates ideas and information gathered through government-led consultations, including:

  • the Premier's Economic Advisory Council (ongoing)

  • the Century Summit (2000), involving Manitoba leaders from business, community and academia

  • biotechnology tours to California (2001) and Germany (2002)

  • Smart Tours to leading innovative countries, including Singapore (2000) and Ireland (2001)

The knowledge and competitive intelligence gained from these initiatives reinforce the need to strategically position Manitoba as a leading innovative region with the ability to meet global competitive challenges. This will ensure our economy has the capacity to sustain and enhance public health, education, social services and rising overall standards of living.

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