Ontario Online Learning Consortium

Published purpose

The voucher funding program aims to de-risk business opportunities for Canadian rural and northern SMEs by connecting them with academic expertise to foster collaboration and R&D capacity. The program prioritizes inclusivity, supporting Indigenous-owned and led businesses, as well as those owned and led by women and other equity-deserving groups. It addresses systemic barriers these businesses face in accessing researchers and resources, aiming to level the playing field and expand participation through targeted outreach and partnerships. Activities include webinars, training sessions, and structured meetings to facilitate collaboration and innovation, while ensuring efficient program management and reporting. Quantified targets aim to enhance engagement and measure impact, supporting the development of professional Research and Development Statements of Work and advancing scopes of work to full-scale research projects