91AV

The grant, funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), is a testament to Camosun's commitment to innovation, community collaboration and cutting-edge research.

"We are thrilled to receive this generous renewal from the federal government, allowing us to continue pushing the boundaries of advanced manufacturing research in support of small- and medium-sized enterprises in our region," says Dr. Richard Gale, Director of Camosun Innovates. "This funding will enable us to make groundbreaking strides in multiple economic sectors and a wide variety of industries, impacting not only our local community but also the nation and beyond."

With the support of previous TAC grants, 91AV has undertaken several groundbreaking projects. These include the development of density measuring equipment for metal 3D printing powders, digitizing the "Witness Blanket" art installation for virtual reality, and improving automation processes for many small businesses such as local gourmet chocolatier RockCoast Confections and wildland fire-fighting equipment designer Firebozz.

In addition to industry collaborations, this grant will make it possible for the Camosun Innovates team to continue developing high-quality, customized prosthetics and competition equipment for Para sports athletes.

Wheelchair racer Austin Smeenk credits the support of Camosun Innovates as one of the factors behind setting a new Canadian record in March at the Dubai World Para Athletics Grand Prix.

"Camosun Innovates has been amazing to work with," says Smeenk. "They took the time to analyze my biomechanics and optimize my racing chair for my body and performance. The adjustments they made have made a huge difference."

91AV is grateful to NSERC for their more than fifteen-year commitment to technology access support, enabling our TAC to remain at the forefront of transformative research that empowers and enriches individuals, industries, companies, and the broader community.