Mercer Times

Choose New Jersey has announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) and the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). This agreement aims to support startups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in fields such as life sciences, digital health solutions, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing.

Governor Phil Murphy emphasized New Jersey's status as an innovation hub, stating that "the collaboration between NJIT and the Ontario Centre of Innovation brings together two innovation incubators that will pioneer the future of science and technology while creating new job opportunities for New Jersey workers and families."

Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, highlighted Ontario's growth as a tech hub. He noted that this partnership with NJIT would be crucial for fostering growth and innovation across borders.

NJIT President Dr. Teik C. Lim remarked on the importance of this MOU in advancing cross-border collaboration in technology. He said it represents a "significant step forward" in supporting startups both in New Jersey and Ontario.

The OCI is funded by Ontario's Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. It aims to connect innovators with researchers, industry partners, and funding to commercialize new intellectual property developed in Ontario.

Claudia Krywiak, President and CEO of OCI, expressed excitement about the partnership with NJIT. She stated that it would drive economic growth by combining resources from both regions to benefit startups, SMEs, and entrepreneurs.

Raed Kadri from OCI highlighted Ontario's leadership in commercializing new technologies. He believes this partnership strengthens both regions' roles in promoting economic growth.

Wesley Mathews from Choose New Jersey underscored the state's capabilities in advancing scientific work due to its high concentration of engineers and scientists. He believes this collaboration is vital for economic advancement through technology.

Reporters seeking more information can contact Mahen Gunaratna or Ingrid Austin via email or visit choosenj.com/CanadaMission for further details.