Message from the Minister

B.C. is home to talented and dedicated researchers whose discoveries have resulted in hundreds of patents and spinoff companies that have boosted and diversified our economy, helping us weather global economic difficulties better than many other places in North America.

That’s one of the reasons the Ministry of Small Business, Technology and Economic Development has responsibility for research in B.C., which includes the Leading Edge Endowment Fund, created with $56.25 million from the Province.

But besides helping build a strong economy, LEEF’s researchers are contributing to a supportive social fabric, a sustainable environment, and safe, healthy communities.

They’re working on repairing spinal cord injuries, reinvigorating our cattle industry, developing better treatments for depression – and a huge range of other pursuits that will improve the lives of people here and around the world.

Research is the key to the future, and I look forward to the continued accomplishments of our LEEF chairs.