Funding will support further wine research at Brock University

NEWS RELEASE
OFFICE OF SAM OOSTERHOFF
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The Ontario government is providing over $3.5 million in funding through the Large Infrastructure Stream of the Ontario Research Fund for the Clean Agriculture for Sustainable Production Project at the new Brock Research Farm in Thorold. This funding will help support the innovative research of the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute at Brock University.

"Ontario's agricultural sector supports critical rural economic development, both in Niagara and across the province," said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West. "This provincial funding for Brock University through the Ontario Research Fund will help develop sustainable farm practices and establish a home for Canada's first Clean Plant Program for grapevines at the university's new research farm."

"By investing in cutting-edge research, we are safeguarding Ontario's position at the forefront of innovation that continues to be competitive on a global scale and has the ability to attract the best and brightest talent to our province," said Hon. Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities. "This funding will help ensure the social and economic opportunities that result from discoveries made in Ontario benefit Ontarians and the Ontario economy."

"The Ontario government has recognized the time is now to be proactive in building resiliency and sustainability into Ontario's $5.5 billion grape and wine industry by supporting this university-industry partnership," said Dr. Debra Inglis, Professor of Biological Sciences and Director of the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute.

MPP Oosterhoff joined Dr. Inglis, as well as Dr. Lesley Rigg, President and Vice-Chancellor of Brock University, along with principal research scientists, Dr. Sudarsana Poojari and Dr. Jim Willwerth, to announce the funding at the future site of the Brock Research Farm in Thorold today.

The Large Infrastructure Stream of the Ontario Research Fund provides educational institutions with funding to help support infrastructure needs, such as modern facilities and equipment.  The Ontario grant matches a commitment from the Canada Foundation for Innovation.

The research sector is a key source of innovation and commercialization in the province, making it one of the leading contributors to Ontario’s global competitiveness and productivity. These investments support the province’s long-term economic growth, while fostering a skilled labour force and promoting new business opportunities in Ontario.

Quick Facts:

• Research projects supported through the Ontario Research Fund are selected through a rigorous and competitive peer review process.
• Since 2018, Ontario has invested $740 million in 1,302 research projects, leveraging more than $1.18 billion in funding from federal and other third-party contributions.
• Since 2018, the Ontario government’s research investments have supported the creation of more than 120,000 training opportunities for researchers and students across the province.
• Since 2018, research investments have contributed to 421 patents being granted, 76 spin-off companies being created and 594 new jobs at those spin-offs.

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