Innovation PEI

Atlantec BioEnergy Corporation is moving forward with the creation of a research and development demonstration facility in Prince Edward Island thanks in part to funding from the federal and provincial governments.

 

The Atlantec BioEnergy Corporation (ABC) was established to explore the feasibility of developing a commercially viable bio-refinery to produce advanced bio-energy from non-traditional feed stocks. The company is now at the stage in its work where they require a demonstration facility to showcase its state-of-the-art technology to process locally grown energy beets as the feed stock to produce renewable ethanol fuel.

“Our Government’s support of Atlantec BioEnergy is an excellent example of how we continue to encourage small- and medium-sized businesses to pursue research and development that will drive innovation, strengthen our economy and increase our region’s competitiveness,” said the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue, on behalf of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and La Francophonie.

The company has recently acquired a facility in Cornwall and is currently in the process of renovating the building to allow for the demonstration of its novel technology.

“This new facility will be active in the production of ethanol from sugar beets and will serve as a working model to demonstrate the ethanol-making process to future customers interested in Atlantec BioEnergy Corporation’s ability to deliver industrial-scale facilities,” said the Honourable Allen Roach, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning. “Our support for this facility will add to the export potential for Atlantec BioEnergy Corporation but also for the many Island suppliers who play a role in this project.”

The ethanol bio-refinery demonstration facility is expected to be complete in January 2012.

“ABC is extremely excited with its move to Prince Edward Island and the opportunities that are ahead as we demonstrate and showcase our unique concept on our pathway to commercialization,” said Mr. Paul Wheaton, President of Atlantec BioEnergy Corporation. “We welcome the investment provided by the federal and provincial governments and in return our investment into the Island economy.”

The Government of Canada, through ACOA, is supporting the project with an investment of $340,512 which will help the company acquire equipment needed to demonstrate the new technology. The Government of Prince Edward Island, through Innovation PEI, is providing the company with $1.8 million in loans, grants and labour rebates.

In 2008 the Atlantec BioEnergy Corporation was also successful in its application for support through Sustainable Development Technology Canada, an arms-length, not-for-profit corporation created by the Government of Canada to support emerging clean technologies.

 

Media Contact: Ron Ryder

Innovation PEI 

PureSCM, an IT consulting company that expanded to Prince Edward Island this year, is looking at real growth opportunities thanks to new contracts with a leading U.S. technology company, says Innovation and Advanced Learning Minister Allen Roach.

 

“When Innovation PEI first brought pureSCM to the Island, it was clear that this company was committed to growth and to pursuing opportunities,” said Minister Roach. “We look forward to working with pureSCM as it makes the most of its new partnership with CA Technologies.”

The new offering, made November 9, combines pureSCM’s strategic consulting and technology expertise in cloud computing with the CA Automation Suite for Clouds from CA Technologies.

Under the partnership, pureSCM has been asked to develop connectors that will support CA Technologies’ applications for cloud computing. Warren McCall, pureSCM president and CEO, said the contract with CA Technologies will make his company’s Prince Edward Island location a centre of excellence for the rollout of cloud computing applications across North and South America.

CA Technologies recently recognized pureSCM as the top services partner in the Virtualization and Service Automation space for its 2012 fiscal year, making the company’s Island team a major factor in delivering services and development for CA throughout the Americas.

“We see more and more organizations moving to cloud computing and CA Technologies is a leader in helping them make this move. PureSCM’s connectors will be critical to this expansion and we intend to make Prince Edward Island the hub for all of our work on this project,” said Mr. McCall. “I want to look first to the talents of Islanders to fill the jobs created by this project, but if this means bringing in talented people from off Island to live and work here I’m prepared to do that too.”

PureSCM’s Island office has six permanent employees and the company expects to grow this to 12 by mid-2012. The employees will be a combination of business consultants and developers working on cloud technologies and core IT service management solutions for customers throughout the Americas.

“We’re very pleased to carry out this work with CA Technologies and to be able to use our Island offices as a launching point for IT service across two continents,” said Mr. McCall. “I can’t thank the provincial government enough for having seen the potential in pureSCM and for working with us to bring these jobs and opportunities to Prince Edward Island.”

PureSCM’s expansion into Prince Edward Island will complement the company’s recent move into South America with operations based in Colombia.

 

BACKGROUNDER

 

About pureSCM

PureSCM is focused on providing consulting services, education and software solutions to companies worldwide. PureSCM focuses on Service, Change and Infrastructure Management on behalf of clients.

The company’s ability to integrate multiple software vendors’ products into a single, efficient solution has helped it become the IT Service Management integration vendor of choice in North America, South America and the Caribbean.

Headquartered in Victoria, British Columbia, pureSCM arrived in Prince Edward Island in February 2011. The company has offices in Canada, the United States, Australia and South America.

About CA Technologies

CA Technologies is an IT management software and solutions company with a deep expertise across all IT environments — from mainframe and distributed, to virtual and cloud. Solutions from CA Technologies enable customers to manage and secure IT environments and deliver more flexible IT services to the business faster.

CA Technologies is headquartered in New York State but employs 14,000 people at offices worldwide. The company reported $4.4 billion ($US) in revenues in fiscal 2011.

CA Technologies trades on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol CA.

About cloud computing

Cloud computing is a technology that uses the internet and central remote servers to maintain data and applications. Cloud computing allows consumers and businesses to use applications without installation and access their personal files at any computer with internet access. This technology allows for much more efficient computing by centralizing storage, memory, processing and bandwidth.

Internet-based mail services such as Gmail or Hotmail are examples of cloud computing.

Media Contact: Ron Ryder

Innovation PEI

A company known for its innovative business software products is launching its newest application in Summerside, says Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning Allan Campbell.

“WorkLinks is a human resource and payroll development company creating original software products for small and medium-sized businesses across North America,” said Minister Campbell. “We are happy to have Prince Edward Island as the site launch for their latest product.”

WorkLinks has been operating in Summerside since September 2008 with offices in the Holman Building.

The new WorkLinks product offers technologically advanced Canadian payroll solutions by integrating human resources (HR), time and attendance, statutory holiday calculator, budgeting and payroll functions into a full feature Workforce Management Solution within a securely hosted web-based environment. The product is developed using the latest technologies designed to ensure the best possible “user experience.”

The first release brings the HR/Payroll suites to the market, with additional releases in development for Benefits, Time and Attendance, Statutory Holiday Calculator and Budgeting.

“We are pleased to be in Prince Edward Island and look forward to establishing a strong presence here. We believe the WorkLinks HR/Payroll Suite will exceed the user’s expectations and provide an exceptional online experience,” said Bob Carbone, VP of Technology.

Additional information on WorkLinks is available by contacting Bob Carbone at carboneb@worklinks.ca or by visitingwww.worklinks.ca.

Media Contact: Ron Ryder

Innovation PEI

A leading company specializing in new potato variety development and potato seed production is setting up a research and development facility on the BioCommons Research Park, says Agriculture Minister George Webster.

 

“Our government is delighted that HZPC Americas Corporation have decided to make this further investment in creating their own infrastructure on the BioCommons, further cementing their presence on Prince Edward Island,” said Minister Webster. “The potato industry is vital to our economy and HZPC can help us become more innovative in this important sector.”

HZPC Americas Corporation is part of the HZPC Group, an internationally operating company active in the potato market, established more than 100 years ago and known on a global basis for excellence in the seed and table potato markets.

Variety and knowledge development are important pillars. HZPC has developed a research and development program to develop better seed potato varieties which allows HZPC to serve customers with potato varieties that will meet current and future market challenges.

The government of Prince Edward Island is supporting HZPC with $126,000 to support research and development work. The facility is expected to create from two to four full-time positions and to grow from there with company activity in research and development.

“HZPC has a long track record of bringing innovation and quality to the potato industry,” said Fred Koops, general manager of HZPC's operations in North America. “With Prince Edward Island’s reputation for excellence in potato production and the province's strong bioscience industry, it was natural to look at the Island as a place to expand our operations.”

HZPC Americas Corporation is constructing a new research and development laboratory, including office premises, to further their work within the potato market.

 

HZPC BACKGROUND

HZPC Americas Corporation is the North American seed potato partner of the HZPC Group.

HZPC is an internationally operating company active in the potato market, established more than 100 years ago in the Netherlands.

The development of new, innovative varieties and to promote their use in North America by supplying the trade with seed potatoes and by the issuing of licenses was indentified as essential for the company's future survival in the highly competitive potato market.

HZPC is developing new varieties that enable HZPC to serve customers with potato varieties that will meet current and future market challenges.

Variety and knowledge development remain important pillars. HZPC Americas Corporation has undertaken an extensive program of variety trialing and introduction to most potato production regions of North America. The past number of seasons several varieties like Innovator, Fabula, Adora, Vivaldi and Sifra have been successfully introduced in major centers of production of North America.

HZPC’s years of experience and strong commitment to long term development will see our partnerships with North American potato producers strengthen in the coming years. Our aim in the coming years is to continue to grow further. To achieve this we will continue to invest in research and development.

Fred Koops, M.Sc. – General Manager - has more than 18 years of experience within HZPC and has a lot of knowledge of the international character of the company and the market of seed potatoes worldwide. Fred coordinates the HZPC activities in Canada, the United States and Mexico. Fred is originally from Holland and has a science degree in Agronomy from Wageningen University.

 

Media Contact: Ron Ryder

Innovation PEI

3 Points Machining and Aerospace Inc. has completed their new manufacturing and repair facility in Charlottetown.

 

“Our Government recognizes the significant role the aerospace sector plays in Atlantic Canada’s economy,” said Senator Mike Duffy. “We’re pleased to support companies like 3 Points Machining and Aerospace who are building a future here by investing to enhance their productivity and comptitiveness.”

3 Points Machining and Aerospace has established a new aerospace manufacturing and repair facility in Charlottetown. This new facility will result in faster turn-around times on aircraft parts and lower the repair costs of high-quality products. The provincial government indicates that the opening of this facility will help to create as many as 22 jobs in Prince Edward Island in one of the fastest growing and strongest industries in the Atlantic region.

“The aerospace industry provides great opportunity for Island workers and for businesses. The Government of Prince Edward Island is very pleased by the commitment 3 Points Machining and Aerospace has shown to this province,” said the Honourable Allan Campbell, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning. “I look forward to seeing the company’s official opening in September and to watching them grow and prosper in our province.”

The Government of Canada, through ACOA, invested $500,000 towards the purchase of necessary equipment at the new facility. The Government of Prince Edward Island supported this project through the Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning with a $1.9 million secured, repayable loan. The company was also eligible to apply for the Innovation and Development Labour Rebate Program with support up to $531,000 based on job creation.

“During their tour Minister Campbell and Senator Duffy will be able to see some state of the art imaging and machining equipment that we use in the manufacturing of aircraft parts.

We’ve been able to use that equipment to scan Minister Campbell’s face and to carve a three-dimensional aluminum likeness of the minister that is accurate to within one-tenth the width of a human hair,” said Dan MacDonald, president of 3 Points Aviation. “This kind of quality and accuracy is a requirement for the aviation industry and we hope to gain a reputation as one of the industry’s leading suppliers of aviation parts and services.”

3 Points Aviation Corporation is an established aerospace company and an approved, certified distributor for regional aircraft parts. 3 Points Machining and Aerospace is a new subsidiary of 3 Points Aviation launched in Prince Edward Island.

Media Contact: Ron Ryder

Eleven game design and animation graduates from across the Atlantic region have realized their dream of creating a video game at the Atlantic Technology Centre this summer. They have taken their idea from concept to a market-ready prototype. They have created two very exciting games, which will be unveiled at a Gala Event on the evening of August 25 at the Tourism and Culinary Centre in Charlottetown.

“Innovation PEI is proud to support an innovative program that helps address the human resources needs of the Gaming Industry,” said Innovation and Advanced Learning Minister Allan Campbell. “This program shows the strength of the gaming industry in Prince Edward Island, and the cooperation that is taking place to achieve results that are capturing interest across the country.”

“Congratulations to both development teams. These prototypes reflect a diverse talent base and creative innovation. Once again, Game Garage has successfully delivered the goods and helped develop and prepare regional talent for careers in Canada’s digital media industry,” said Gord Whittaker, Regional Director, Business Development Atlantic Canada for Telefilm Canada.

Game Garage is an initiative of the Interactive Media Alliance (IMA), the PEI-based interactive media industry association. The Game Garage was a three-month video game incubator project that took place in Charlottetown, PEI. This summer project was generously supported by the Interactive Media Alliance, Telefilm Canada and Innovation PEI. With this financial assistance, the IMA provided participants with the necessary office space, hardware and software, and salary required to build their games. The project ran from June 13 to August 26, 2011 at the Atlantic Technology Center in Charlottetown, PEI.

"Game Garage 4 is the best ever. Having two teams working side by side in friendly competition has made both projects stronger,” said Chris Sharpley, President of the Interactive Media Alliance. “Game Garage is proving to be an invaluable program for building the game studios of the future."

Participants were chosen from a national competition that invited graduating new media students and recent graduates to submit original game concepts, or submit their resumes for a chance to work on someone else’s concept. This year’s successful entries were from game design and game programming graduates from the New Brunswick Community College – Miramichi Campus, Holland College, and the University of PEI.

The three-month incubation period was used get the game prototype ready to be pitched for sale, but if the grads would rather start their own company to market their game, then they have the option to set up shop in the growing game sector here on Prince Edward Island.

As for career options, some of the participants have already been hired by game studios from Island-based new media companies. The companies were partners in the Game Garage by providing mentorship to the students during the summer and had the advantage to see them at work, building a game.

About the Interactive Media Alliance of PEI

The IMA is an alliance of video game and other interactive media companies based in Prince Edward Island with a mandate to develop and support the new media and video game industry.

About Telefilm Canada

Telefilm Canada is a federal cultural agency dedicated to developing and promoting the Canadian audiovisual industry. Telefilm provides financial support to the private sector to create distinctively Canadian products that appeal to domestic and international audiences. Telefilm also administers the Canada Media Fund. Visit www.telefilm.gc.ca.

Media Contact: Ron Ryder

The Prince Edward Island Food Technology Centre has undergone a rebranding and is expanding its services to the food and bioprocessing industries, says Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning, Allan Campbell.

“Under the new name, BIO|FOOD|TECH will provide professional technical services to the food and bioprocessing industries through food technology, bioscience technology and lab services,” said Minister Campbell. “This is an exciting time for the province because this revamped infrastructure will provide local, regional and national clients with the technical support and industry expertise needed to take their products to the next level.”

The Prince Edward Island Food Technology Centre was established in 1987 to provide support to the Island's food processing industry. Since then, it has strategically developed its infrastructure and has attained recognition as a quality technology provider. BIO|FOOD|TECH will be Atlantic Canada's most comprehensive provider of food science and technology, offering practical applied science to support food and bioprocessing companies in moving from the concept stage to the pilot stage and finally to the market stage.

“Since the Food Technology Centre began operating in 1987, people have informally referred to it as FOOD TECH,” says Dr. Jim Smith, Executive Director of BIO|FOOD|TECH. “We continue to offer all the food technology services that we have in the past and have recently added bioscience technology services. For this reason we have added BIO to the name.”

The building has been completely renovated and includes an enlarged food safety lab, an updated food product development lab and a state-of-the-art sensory analysis lab. The food safety lab provides accredited microbiological analysis services to the province's food processors including all the companies who export product to Europe and the USA. The food product development lab provides the applied scientific and technical skills to develop desirable new products and ensure their safety and shelf life. The sensory lab ensures the acceptability and shelf life of new products.

A new division has been created called Bioscience Technology. Bioscience Technology occupies two pilot plants and two labs at BIO|FOOD|TECH and provides technical support to bioprocessing industry clients including fermentation, extraction technology and downstream processing.

Along with the new name, there is a new logo and a new website that goes live today.

For more information on BIO|FOOD|TECH visit the new website at www.biofoodtech.ca.

Media Contact: Ron Ryder

Innovation PEI

A worldwide leader in contract management software is expanding its operation to Prince Edward Island and beginning a talent search for highly skilled Information Technology (IT) professionals, says Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning, Allan Campbell.

“The Province of Prince Edward Island is proud to partner with Upside Software Inc., a company known for their innovative ideas and dedicated work,” said Minister Campbell. “Upside Software is well recognized around the world. This is an excellent opportunity for talented IT professionals to practice their craft and gain valuable work experience here on the Island."

Upside Software was formed in 2000 with a head office located in Edmonton, Alberta. The company delivers contract management and related solutions and is the leader in contract life-cycle management (CLM) solutions. The company is starting with six openings for IT professionals for the new Charlottetown location with a long-term goal of expanding its Prince Edward Island presence. Upside Software is actively hiring quality assurance automation testers, developers and solution architects.

“Prince Edward Island’s highly skilled and hard working labour force has great appeal to our company,” said Ashif Mawji, President and CEO of Upside Software. “With this expansion comes new and creative ideas that will help our company continue to innovate and bring on board exceptional new talent.”

The company took part in the labor rebate program delivered by the Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning and Innovation PEI. Funding will be granted to the company based on the number of jobs created over the next two years. The provincial government contribution to this expansion is approximately $146,000.

Upside Software has a strong client base in North America, Europe and other parts of the world, with customers of every size in virtually every industry including: health care, manufacturing, telecommunications, aerospace, finance, pharmaceuticals, energy, education, public sector and more. The company has won various industry awards and has been named one of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies the last two years and has been cited as a leader in the CLM industry by independent research firms. For more information please visit www.upsidesoft.com.

Media Contact: Rosalie Murphy

Innovation PEI

With support provided by the federal and provincial governments, Tube-Fab Ltd, an international components manufacturing company, is making the final preparations to their new, expanded facility in Summerside.

 

“Our Government understands the key role the aerospace industry plays in the growth of our economy,” said the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and La Francophonie. “Tube-Fab Ltd?s new facility will stimulate further job creation in our region and ensure Atlantic Canada?s global competiveness.”

Tube-Fab Ltd has consolidated their Toronto-based company, their Cornwall, PE, sister company TFL Technologies, as well as some U.S.-based companies into a new expanded facility in Summerside. Tube-Fab will continue to provide their current machine and welding services in this new location. In addition to these services, the new facility will house a center specializing in tube-bending, shaping and fabricating tubular and machine components for the aerospace, energy and medical products sectors.

“The Provincial government is happy to work with Tube-Fab as they continue to expand their presence and operations in Prince Edward Island. We support this initiative, and welcome the addition of 100 new jobs to the province?s aerospace industry,” said the Honourable Allan Campbell, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning.

The new facility will also house a new division called the Atlantic Canada Quality & Inspection Service. This division will offer Non-Destructive Testing and will be the manufacturer of specialized filter devices for both Commercial and Residential air cleaners. This “Filtration Products” unit develops specialized filters to handle particularly difficult filter problems.

“The Government of Canada, through ACOA, and the Government of PEI, through the Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning, and in cooperation with a very entrepreneurial private sector has cooperated to create a consolidation of manufacturing facilities, skills and products that are being located here in Summerside to create an efficient manufacturing centre that will produce exports for this Island and this Region; and with it over 100 jobs for your economy and residents,” said Kirk Foley, Chairman and CEO of Tube-Fab Ltd.

Cornwall-based TFL Technologies currently employs 20 employees but, through this consolidation, Tube-Fab Ltd?s new operations will grow to approximately 100 employees in the new facility in Summerside.

Media Contact: Rosalie Murphy

Innovation PEI

The opening of Accreon Inc in Charlottetown will add 20 jobs to the expanding group of Information Technology (IT) companies calling Prince Edward Island their home, says Innovation and Advanced Learning Minister Allan Campbell.

“Accreon is a growing company with a spirit for innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Minister Campbell. The IT industry has grown significantly in the past number of years and I am happy to announce that this expansion will create many new positions for skilled IT workers in Prince Edward Island.”

Accreon provides software development, maintenance, customization and implementation for large organizations. The company is presently working with a number of businesses regarding e-health development. Its expansion to Prince Edward Island will produce 20 new developer positions with an average salary of $60,000.

“We invest in Prince Edward Island due to our continued commitment to job and wealth creation in PEI,” says Michael Lavigne, Vice President of Business Development at Accreon. “We are continually impressed by the highly talented labour pool being produced in this market by Holland College and UPEI. Recruiting and retaining skilled and knowledgeable workers in Prince Edward Island provides us with a competitive advantage as we pursue opportunities in foreign markets.”

Accreon took part in the labour rebate program delivered by the Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning and Innovation PEI. Under the terms of the program, the company will receive funding based on the number of employees hired over the next two years. The provincial government contribution to the expansion is approximately $500,000.

Accreon is a technology and management services company based out of Fredericton, New Brunswick with locations in Manchester, New Hampshire and most recently Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. For more information, please visit www.accreon.com.

Media Contact: Rosalie Murphy

Innovation PEI

The second year of implementation of the Island Prosperity Strategy has been marked by strong economic development and research activity, says Premier Robert Ghiz.

"We began the Island Prosperity Strategy in 2009 with the five-year goal of seeing 2,000 new jobs for Islanders in the strategic economic sectors of renewable energy, information technology, aerospace and bioscience. Just two years into that five-year plan, we have seen 850 new jobs created in these sectors and we have seen major investments made by government and the private sector that suggest this growth will only continue," said Premier Ghiz.

Premier Ghiz joined Innovation and Advanced Learning Minister Allan Campbell to provide an update on the Island Prosperity Strategy to industry and the public. The latest update and background materials can be found online at www.celebratinginnovation.ca.

Minister Campbell said the immediate job results are very exciting but that the economy of Prince Edward Island will see growth and expansion due to the culture of innovation that is being encouraged under the Island Prosperity Strategy.

"We have seen great industry interest in some of the physical infrastructure being developed at places such as the Biocommons Research Park, but the most strategic investments we are making are in the Island's innovators," said the minister. "By investing in schools, by improving science facilities at high schools, college campuses and at our university, and by helping Islanders develop the business and technical skills to succeed, we are creating an environment that I think will lead to success in our strategic sectors, in traditional Island industries like farming and fishing, and in every corner of Prince Edward Island.

For more information on the Island Prosperity Strategy, visit www.gov.pe.ca/ial.

For more information on the PEI Biocommons Research Park, visit www.innovationpei.com.

BACKGROUNDER Progress Report 2011 - The Island Prosperity Strategy

The Island Prosperity Strategy is focused on the development of the strategic sectors of biosciences, information technology, aerospace and renewable energy, and on strengthening links with the primary industries. Innovation PEI encourages growth and innovation in these sectors with a variety of incentives and programs. The progress report contains highlights of the accomplishments made in the first two years of the five year strategy.

Over the past two years, the provincial government has invested more than $85 million in the four strategic sectors. A total of 850 new jobs have been created. Ongoing investments by government and the private sector will ensure this growth continues.

Biosciences • The bioscience sector has grown in Prince Edward Island with more than 900 employees, including 200 PhD's and over 30 companies. • The bioscience sector saw significant growth in 2009 and 2010 with increased revenues to $78 million and the addition of 200 full time positions. • Construction of the BioCommons research park is underway • In 2009 the bioscience sector made up 2.1 per cent of Prince Edward Island's GDP.

Information Technology • The information technology sector in Prince Edward Island is diverse with companies creating everything from video games to E-health solutions, utility management tools to customized software. • The Innovation and Technology Association of Prince Edward Island (ITAP) estimates there are approximately 2500 Islanders employed in information and communication technology on Prince Edward Island. Employment has risen by more than 20 percent since 2008 and over 1000 people are employed in the Island's contact-centre industry. • The information and communication technology industry on Prince Edward Island boasts an average salary of over $50,000. • The GDP of the ICT industry in Prince Edward Island totalled $112 million in 2008; this accounted for 3.0 per cent of the provincial GDP. • Prince Edward Island's information and communication technology industry has shown great resilience during the recent economic downturn. In Canada, the total number of ICT companies declined 5 per cent from 2004 to 2009. During same period the Island's ICT sector grew 3 per cent, from 126 firms to 130.

Aerospace • Aerospace has developed into the fastest growing industry over the past 15 years in Prince Edward Island, reaching 10 companies and employing 1000 people, including support services. • The aerospace industry boasts annual sales of approximately $355 million. • The growth of the aerospace industry is expected to continue reaching 1,100 employees and $500 million in sales over the next five years. • In 2009 the aerospace industry made up 9.5 per cent of Prince Edward Island's GDP. • The aerospace industry had two major highlights in 2010-2011 with the addition of 3 Points Machining & Aerospace to the PEI cluster and the expansion of Tube Fab Ltd. • Current aerospace companies in Prince Edward Island include: MDS Coating Technology Corporation, Honeywell Aerospace, Action Aero, Marand Engineering, Tronos, Tube Fab Ltd, Vector Aerospace, Wiebel Aerospace, Testori Group and 3 Points Machining and Aerospace.

Renewable energy • Prince Edward Island has established itself as the North American leader in wind energy. Since the inception of the Island Prosperity Strategy, wind energy output in the province has grown by 64 megawatts. • Since the inception of the Island Prosperity Strategy, renewable energy output has increased by more than 50 percent. • In 2010, the PEI owned wind energy sector recorded $35 million in sales. The Prince Edward Island Energy Corporation had a profit of $3.5 million. • Renewable energy production reached new heights in 2010 and 2011 at the Wind-Hydrogen Village in North Cape as workers were successful in producing hydrogen from wind power and using the hydrogen as a generator fuel to produce electricity. For more information on the progress report, go to www.celebratinginnovation.ca

 

Innovation PEI

Construction of the first facility within the BioCommons Research Park is nearing completion and the provincial government has fully rented the facility to bioscience companies.

The BioCommons Manufacturing Facility, a partnership of Innovation PEI, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Charlottetown and Area Development Corporation, is designed as an adaptable 32,000 sq. ft. space in which bioscience-related companies can establish commercial operations. This facility is the first unit to be built in the 65-acre BioCommons Research Park in Charlottetown. Construction of the facility began in January 2011.

"Our Government continues to encourage small- and medium-sized businesses to pursue research and development that will drive innovation, strengthen our economy and increase our country's competitiveness," said the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Minister of State for La Francophonie. "This facility provides infrastructure to help them achieve these goals."

The environmentally designed building has attracted considerable interest from within the bioscience community.

Tenants who have committed to the new facility include: • Island Abbey - Manufacturing space for the Honibe line of honey products • Tetragenx - New product development, Manufacturing and Formulation of medicated animal feeds • Ceapro - Production, research and development space for human and animal health products • Omniactives - Supplier of nutritional ingredients to healthcare and food industries

"The manufacturing centre has reached substantial completion and it is very exciting that we have four bioscience companies who have committed to do business in the new building," said the Honourable Allan Campbell, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning. "The next step is fitting out the rented spaces to each tenant's needs. I look forward to seeing these forward-looking bioscience companies begin operations over the course of the summer and fall of 2011."

The bioscience sector was chosen as a provincial priority because of its great economic promise and because of its potential to create new products and markets for the Island's traditional farming, fishery and forestry sectors. There are nearly 50 bioscience-related employers on Prince Edward Island, with an estimated 950 Islanders working in this field. Bioscience employment has increased by roughly 200 positions since 2008. Bioscience on Prince Edward Island generated revenues of $77 million in 2009/10.

"I am confident that these four companies will find success and growth in the PEI BioCommons and that we will see this park continue to attract new firms," said Minister Campbell. "We are proud to support innovation on Prince Edward Island and to see leading-edge companies create work and opportunities for Islanders." Recruitment efforts are continuing and talks are underway with companies considering rental space in future BioCommons buildings as well as with companies considering establishing their own stand-alone facilities in the BioCommons Research Park.

For more information on the PEI BioCommons Research Park, visit www.innovationpei.com.

BACKGROUNDER Biocommons Manufacturing Facility Fully Rented The BioCommons Manufacturing Facility, a partnership of Innovation PEI, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Charlottetown and Area Development Corporation, is designed as an adaptable 32,000 sq. ft. space in which bioscience-related companies can establish commercial operations. This facility is the first unit to be built in the 65-acre BioCommons Research Park in Charlottetown. Construction of the facility began in January 2011.

Government recruiters have succeeded in reaching occupancy agreements that will completely fill the building when construction is complete. The rented spaces will be fitted out to meet the new tenants' needs.

Tenants who have committed to the new facility include: Island Abbey - www.honibe.com Island Abbey Foods Ltd. is a specialty honey producer based in Prince Edward Island. HonibeTM (honee-bee) brand honey is a line of all natural, specialty honey from PEI. Island Abbey offer HonibeTM brand products like the Honey DropTM, the world's first 100% pure, no mess, non sticky honey, a 100% pure honey candy called Honey DelightsTM, granular honey called Honey SprinklesTM and Honey LozengesTM for cough and sore throat relief.

Tetragenx - www.tetragenx.com TetraGenx was formed in 2000 providing pharmaceutical development and consulting services to the North and Central American markets. TetraGenx remains 100% privately owned and currently operates out of two facilities in the Montreal, Quebec region. The company has established itself as a multi-disciplinary company providing a wide range of services to the pharmaceutical industry.

Ceapro - www.ceapro.com Incorporated in 1997, Ceapro's mission is to be a global leader in developing and commercializing products for the human and animal health market through the use of proprietary technology and renewable resources. Ceapro has achieved a reputation as an innovative formulator and advanced processor of active ingredients, botanical extracts, and therapeutic products. Ceapro Inc. is a small cap, public company traded on the Canadian TSX Venture Stock Exchange (TSXV: CZO)

Omniactives - www.omniactives.com OmniActive Health Technologies (OmniActivesTM) supplies nutritional ingredients to healthcare, food and personal care industries. Omniactive Health Technologies is headquartered in Mumbai (India), with manufacturing in Thane (India), Pune (India) and Cochin (India), with a subsidiary in Short Hills, New Jersey (USA), and a distribution network covering Europe, Asia and South America. Parent company KANCOR Ingredients has been a manufacturer of premium ingredient for over 35 years, with a business history since 1865.

Innovation PEI

Aircraft parts supplier and distributor, 3 Points Aviation Corporation is establishing its corporate management office and launching its subsidiary 3 Points Machining and Aerospace in Prince Edward Island with support provided by the federal and provincial governments.

“As we emerge from the global recession, our Government remains committed to strengthening the economy in all regions of the country,” said the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway. “We recognize the significant role the aerospace sector plays in Atlantic Canada’s economy and we’re pleased to support companies like 3-Points who are building their future here by investing to enhance their productivity and ensure their competitiveness.”

3 Points Aviation Corporation will establish a new aerospace manufacturing and repair facility in Charlottetown. This new facility will result in faster turn-around times on aircraft parts and lower the repair costs of high-quality products.

“On behalf of the Province of Prince Edward Island I am pleased to welcome 3 Points Aviation to the Island and congratulate them on the launch of their subsidiary company, 3 Points Machining and Aerospace,” said Minister Campbell, “We are pleased to support these companies as they join our robust aerospace industry. It is exciting to see the continued growth of our aerospace industry as a direct result of this government’s strategic economic development approach, the Island Prosperity Strategy. Through this strategy we continue to increase opportunities for Islanders.”

The Government of Canada, through ACOA, is investing $500,000 towards the purchase of necessary equipment at the new facility. The Government of Prince Edward Island is supporting this project through the Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning with a $1.9 million secured, repayable loan. The company is also eligible to apply for the Innovation and Development Labour Rebate Program with support up to $531,000 based on job creation.

“We are pleased to join Prince Edward Island’s aerospace sector. With our new venture we utilize technology and trade to enhance our ability to deliver quality products and services in a highly competitive, ever-changing marketplace. We are extremely excited to be a part of the Island community, and we feel our business will only compliment the other members of the Aerospace sector of Prince Edward Island,” said Mr. John Druken, COO of 3 Points Aviation and 3 Points Machining and Aerospace. “The collaborative relationship between the industry and all three levels of government is one of the major deciding factors for our setup in the Charlottetown area. We look forward to enhancing our working relationship with the Islanders and the community of Charlottetown in the coming months and years ahead.”

3 Points Aviation Corporation is an established aerospace company and an approved, certified distributor for regional aircraft parts. 3 Points Machining and Aerospace is a new subsidiary of 3 Points Aviation launching in Prince Edward Island.

About 3 Points Aviation and 3 Points Machining and Aerospace:

3 Points Aviation is an established Transport Canada approved certified distributor and supplier of regional aircraft parts. They provide service and parts such as landing gear, propellers and engines for aircraft models including DASH 8 100/200/300/400, CRJ’s, Fokker and ATR. Their technical resources, knowledge, and global product reach will add tremendous value to the aerospace sector in Prince Edward Island.

The further expansion of the Prince Edward Island facilities of a major international bioscience company is evidence of the health of the bioscience sector in this province, says Innovation and Advanced Learning Minister Allan Campbell.

“I was very pleased to learn that Novartis has recently acquired a third building in the West Royalty Business Park. This additional space will allow Novartis to strengthen its production and further augment its development activity on Prince Edward Island,” said Minister Campbell.

“With the recent arrival of Mary Tinant as Senior Manager Technical Operations of Novartis Animal Health Canada on the Island, the company seems ready to continue its success in our province. I’d like to congratulate Mary Tinant and welcome her to Prince Edward Island.”

The new Novartis facility is located on McCarville Street, directly across the road from Novartis’s Island head office and product development facility. Novartis also maintains a vaccine production facility on Hillstrom Avenue in the West Royalty Industrial Park and research and development operations in the community of Victoria.

“On behalf of all Novartis employees in PEI and across Canada, I’d like to thank the PEI government for encouraging Novartis to thrive in your province,” said Janice Murray, interim President of Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc. “We see this recent expansion as an important step to growing the Novartis presence and partnerships on the Island.”

“Government recognizes that there is tremendous potential for the bioscience sector to create challenging and rewarding jobs for Islanders. We are proud to see Novartis expanding its contributions to our Island economy and our Island community,” said Mr. Campbell.

Through the support of the Premier’s Innovation Speaker Series, Three Oaks Innovations Inc. is hosting Professor Alan Barrell, Entrepreneur in Residence from the University of Cambridge to Charlottetown on March 28 and 29, says Innovation and Advanced Learning Minister Allan Campbell.

Professor Alan Barrell has spent almost 30 years in senior executive positions in technology-based industries and become one of Cambridge’s most articulate promoters of entrepreneurship. He is one of the founding shareholders in Library House Ltd., a company that engages in the discovery, research and profiling of information on ventures in Europe and is now Entrepreneur in Residence at the university’s Centre for Entrepreneurial Learning.

“It gives me great pleasure to welcome Professor Alan Barrell to our Island,” said Minister Campbell. “This individual has led innovative projects throughout his career and brings extensive knowledge of business development and cluster growth to our local leaders who I know will put it to good use.”

While on Prince Edward Island, Professor Barrell has agreed to lead two round-table discussions open to the public.

Innovation and the Cambridge Phenomenon – Globalizing Regional Performance through the Development of a Science Based Cluster

During this session, Professor Barrell will draw upon his extensive knowledge of the Cambridge (UK) Biotechnology Cluster and discuss the characteristics and requirements needed to achieve critical mass through growth and development.

From Academia to Business Success – Issues for Scientists, Inventors and Investors in Tomorrow’s World

The objective of this session will be to educate and increase the awareness of different global technology transfer models and how these models can be applied and utilized to increase the market penetration rate of technology originating from the University.

“Three Oaks Innovations Inc is very pleased to attract Professor Barrell to the province,” said Sophie Theriault, Director of Three Oaks Innovations Inc. “We look forward to exchanging thoughts and ideas with Mr. Barrell on commercializing university research.”

The lectures will take place on the University of Prince Edward Island campus on Monday, March 28 and Tuesday, March 29. For more information on lecture location and schedule, please visit the Three Oaks Innovations website at www.threeoaksinnovations.com.

Background

Professor Alan Barrell is the Entrepreneur in Residence at the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Entrepreneurial Learning and a Visiting Professor of Enterprise at the University of Bedfordshire School of Graduate Business Studies. He has been the Chairman of Health Enterprise East Ltd., an organization seeking to exploit innovative inventions, processes and procedures in the National Health Service. He was instrumental in launching the Cambridge Gateway Fund, a 70 million Euro fund to support early stage technology businesses in the region and became its Managing Partner.

Professor Barrell has extensive experience relating to the growth and development of Biotechnology Clusters. He resides in and has been deeply involved with the continued growth of the Cambridge Cluster. This cluster comprises over 200 Biotech companies and represents one of the largest clusters in Europe. His knowledge and experience will provide great insight into the key components needed for clusters to remain competitive. It is envisioned that Professor Barrell, following from his trip, will become a key advocate for the Island and help to promote PEI within his extensive present and future contacts.

Three Oaks Innovations, Inc. (TOI) is the bridge between industry and researchers at the University of Prince Edward Island. Its main goal is to manage effectively the transfer of knowledge and innovation to commercial development and/or public use for the economic and social benefit of the University, its researchers, and the people of Prince Edward Island, to achieve regional, national, and international benefits and impacts. TOI is the portal through which industry can seek expertise or advice from UPEI researchers. Incorporated in 2005 by the University of Prince Edward Island, TOI assists researchers in transforming their innovative ideas into commercial products, business opportunities and public knowledge.

The Premier’s Innovation Speaker Series is designed to support local leaders that have identified world experts to deliver public lectures, give seminar presentations and participate in roundtable or panel discussions on Prince Edward Island. These prominent and dynamic experts will advance public knowledge in the priority sectors of the Provincial government’s Island Prosperity Strategy: bioscience (including agriculture and fisheries), aerospace, renewable energy and information technology.

Local leaders from across PEI (applicants) are responsible for endorsing the world class expert and organizing all arrangements pertaining to their visit. Applications are accepted from local business owners, research professionals, industry leaders, and other private and public sector employees. A peer review committee will evaluate the proposal based on the proposed agenda, individual’s experience and strategic fit within the strategic sectors. Particular emphasis will be placed on the ability of the proposal to strengthen innovative research and commercialization within these sectors.

A new BioCommons Manufacturing Centre will be built in the BioCommons Research Park, thanks to a combined investment of more than $4.65 million from the federal and provincial governments.

The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, the Honourable Robert Ghiz, Premier of Prince Edward Island, and Mr. David McInnis, Chair, Charlottetown Area Development Corporation (CADC), gathered today in Charlottetown to announce funding details.

“Our Government is pleased to support the construction of this new facility and the contribution it will make to further strengthen the bioscience technology cluster on Prince Edward Island,” said Minister Shea.

The 30,000 sq. ft. BioCommons Manufacturing Centre will be leased to bioscience companies that are market ready and require a light manufacturing facility. The facility will have space to accommodate five bioscience companies.

“Bioscience is one of the key growth sectors of Prince Edward Island’s economy. Our government is very pleased to partner with ACOA and CADC in providing the facilities bioscience firms need in order to innovate, grow and create opportunities for Islanders,” said Premier Ghiz.

The Government of Canada is supporting the project with an investment of $2,000,000 through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund. The Province of Prince Edward Island is contributing a $2.65 million through Innovation PEI.

“The Charlottetown Area Development Corporation is pleased to partner with ACOA and the Province to build and operate this manufacturing centre,” said Mr. McInnis.

The BioCommons Research Park will be built on 65 acres of land in Charlottetown and will become a centre for bioscience research and development, manufacturing and support services. The BioCommons Manufacturing Centre will be a location of choice for those bioscience companies operating in the natural products and bio-actives space who need to expand their production capability. This facility will play an important role by providing key infrastructure that will enable the successful evolution and growth of PEI’s bioscience cluster.

Media Contacts:

Cindy Roy, ACOA PEI & Tourism, (902) 566-7569, Cindy.Roy@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Ron Ryder, PEI Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning, (902) 620-3774, rrryder@gov.pe.ca

The precision machining operations of TFL Technologies of Cornwall, Prince Edward Island, and sister company Tube-Fab Limited of Toronto, Ontario, will consolidate their operations in a new and expanded facility in Summerside with support provided by the federal and provincial government.

The Government of Prince Edward Island through the Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning is supporting the project with a five year, $1.2 million repayable demand loan secured by assets of the Company. The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency has invested $227,500.

“The government of Prince Edward Island is pleased to support TFL Technologies as they open a consolidated Canadian operation in Summerside, Prince Edward Island,” said Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning Allan Campbell. “TFL Technologies has been an employer in our aerospace sector for thirty years, and we are excited to see TFL and their sister company Tube Fab Limited chose Prince Edward Island for the location of their consolidated Canadian operation which will bring approximately 80 new jobs to Prince Edward Island.”

“Our government, through ACOA, is committed to growing the aerospace sector in PEI,” said the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway. “By encouraging the pursuit and adoption of innovation by firms like TFL Technologies, we are enhancing our regional competitiveness and helping Atlantic Canadian companies respond effectively to the challenge and opportunity for growth and export.

“We are pleased to announce the opening of our expanded operations in Prince Edward Island,” said Chairman and CEO of TFL Technologies Kirk Foley. “The Island is a competitive and attractive location on which to build business opportunities that are world scale and reach all corners of the globe. This announcement proves that there are no remote locations any more … only those who refuse to be driven by innovation and energy. PEI is an attractive place to live and to work and is a favoured location by those that experience our community and its creativity.”

Municipal, provincial, and federal governments are working with Tube-Fab Limited as the company moves ahead with the development of an appropriate facility in the Summerside area to house its consolidated operation.

The Provincial loan will be used in conjunction with a commercial lender to support the expansion of the business in Prince Edward Island, and ACOA’s investment will help TFL Technologies (2010) Ltd expand their product offering to include Non-Destructive Testing (NDT).

TFL Technologies currently employs 20 staff in Cornwall, Prince Edward Island. Over the next year, they will be transitioned to the expanded operation in Summerside, where the new operation will grow to approximately 100 employees.