As part of the Ontario Network of Entrepreneurs, the NORCAT Innovation Mill serves as one of Canada’s pre-eminent innovation centres partnering with community stakeholders to help start and accelerate the growth of innovative companies in the life sciences / healthcare, advanced manufacturing, mining, oil / gas, and other resource sectors.
In addition, the NORCAT Innovation Mill works closely with global mining companies, international governments, and the MaRS Discovery District, on the development or policies related to the creation of innovation centres, the development of collaboration networks, the creation of seed and venture capital funds, academic research / development and technology transfer strategies, intellectual property policies and frameworks, and incentive mechanisms to engage start-up and small / medium enterprises to grow and scale their businesses to support local and regional economic and social prosperity.
Areas of expertise
- Training and Development
- Underground Hard Rock Mining
- Startup Support
- Mining Technology Testing
- Corporate Innovation / Innovation Strategy Development
Specialized services
Unique equipment
- NORCAT Underground Centre
- Equipment Simulation Training Centre
- Fortin Discovery Lab (advanced manufacturing maker space)
Key Projects, Programs and Initiatives
Small Firm Assistance Program (SFAP)
The Small Firm Assistance Program is administered by NORCAT, and allows companies innovating in the mining sector to access up to $10K in funding for projects being undertaken at the NORCAT Underground Centre. The funds are used to cover the labour costs associated with technology testing, installation, demonstration, and showcasing on site.
Benefits
- Reduced project costs
- Access to skilled labor
- Technology testing in an operating mine environment
- Client/customer generation
Areas of focus
- Mining Innovations
Partners & Collaborators
IRAP