SAIT

The heart of the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology’s (SAIT) applied research and innovation infrastructure is without a doubt its Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS) department that began as the Innovative Technology Development Office in 1999. Since ARIS was formally established in 2003, applied research at SAIT has been responsive and adaptable with six research areas currently prioritized: Green Building Technologies, Sports and Wellness Engineering Technologies/Design, Testing and Fabrication, Environmental Technologies, Information Technology Solutions, and Unmanned Systems.

ARIS is home to 35,000 square feet of research facilities, with a staff of 40 full-time researchers, administrators, grant-writers, and communications and marketing personnel who support social innovation in the community through industry transformation and public education and outreach.

Since 2012, SAIT has worked with 925 small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), created 509 prototypes, developed 227 new products, and improved 142 existing products and services. SAIT’s applied research department has worked with local, national, and international organizations. In 2016-17, ARIS worked with the Insurance Bureau of Canada to support the rebuilding of Fort McMurray with a public outreach project that will ensure a superior rebuild. SAIT also developed a one-of-a-kind template competition chair for Wheelchair Basketball Canada to help its athletes optimize their performance for the 2016 Olympics.

ARIS’ funding has engaged 815 students in applied-research projects and opened up opportunities for internships or capstone projects, allowing students to gain industry experience, as well as innovation and entrepreneurial skills.

About SAIT

SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) is a leader in action-based learning, delivering relevant, skill-oriented education. We offer two baccalaureate degrees, three applied degrees, 73... Learn more

The Applied Research and Innovation Excellence Award

The Applied Research and Innovation Excellence Award recognizes a college or institute that has improved the productivity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and community partners through the development of new and improved products, processes and services and has provided students and graduates with real-world innovation experience. This award recognizes institutional, rather than individual achievements. To be eligible for this award, your institution must not have received the “Gold” award within the past 3 years or since 2020

CICan and TD Insurance

TD Insurance is proud to be the exclusive sponsor of the CICan Awards of Excellence Program. TD Insurance will give an award of $1,000 to each Gold level Award of Excellence recipient.
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