Prince George, BC – The University of Northern British Columbia is playing a leading role in the B.C.-led Canada’s Digital Technology Supercluster Initiative. The initiative was announced earlier today by the Government of Canada. It is meant to spur new regional, national and global economic opportunities that address the productivity, health and sustainability challenges facing Canada and the world.

UNBC is among six B.C. post-secondary institutions that will collaborate with national corporate and high-tech industry leaders who share a vision to position Canada as a global digital technology leader.

“UNBC continues to participate in and create opportunities that will not only enhance our research culture but transform lives in Northern B.C. and around the world,” said UNBC President Dr. Daniel Weeks. “We are leaders in building partnerships that enhance the success of communities we work with, and the opportunity to participate in the creation of pathways to the North that will lead to new forms of industry partnership is exciting.”

Canada’s Digital Technology Supercluster Initiative includes founding partners Telus, Microsoft, Teck, Canfor, Shoppers Drug Mart, Providence Health Care and Research Universities’ Council of British Columbia members including UNBC, Simon Fraser University, the University of Victoria, and the University of British Columbia, along with Emily Carr University and the B.C. Institute of Technology.

“UNBC has a terrific research community, fuelled by the inquisitive nature and technical expertise of our faculty and students,” said Interim Vice President Research and Graduate Programs Geoff Payne. “Working together, and as part of a larger consortium, will improve our research and development, improve our talent development, and help create an environment that empowers economic development and diversification for the North.”

Learn more about the Digital Technology Supercluster.

Read about Canada's new superclusters.

Learn more about the major opportunities ahead for UNBC in Dr. Dan Weeks op-ed in the Prince George Citizen.

-30-