Exploring Innovation in Newfoundland and Labrador

• Main Authors: Carter, Ken, McCahon, Marion, Hall, Heather, Lam, Jose
• Format: Conference Object
• Language: English
• Published: 2013
• Subjects: HB Economic Theory; HC Economic History and Conditions; Canada; Corner Brook; Newfoundland
• Online Access: https://research.library.mun.ca/1809/; https://research.library.mun.ca/1809/1/j_lam_ExploringInnovationCornerBrook.pptx; https://research.library.mun.ca/1809/2/HMHALLcuexpo.pdf; https://research.library.mun.ca/1809/4/HMHALLcuexpo.pdf

This panel is based on the experiences of several researchers at Memorial University, provincial government representatives, and community partners exploring the social dynamics of innovation in Newfoundland and Labrador. This research emerged in 2006 as part of a $2.5 million Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada – Major Collaborative Research Initiative. It included investigators across the country studying three major themes: (1) the social dynamics of innovation; (2) talent attraction and retention; (3) and governance and inclusion. The Leslie Harris Centre of Regional Policy and Development at Memorial University led the Newfoundland and Labrador section of this project. Interviews were conducted with creative workers, businesses and research organizations in leading clusters and sectors of the economy, NGOs and, various levels of government. Advisory committees were established in four case-study locations, including: St. John’s, Corner Brook, Clarenville, and Labrador West. Workshops were also held to engage key partners. This study was closely linked to a subsequent community-based research initiative exploring the nature and role of networks in shaping innovation in the Corner Brook area. This collaborative project has involved post-secondary institutions, the government of Newfoundland and Labrador, the City of Corner Brook, and local business and economic organizations. Data was collected through interviews and an online survey and analyzed using social network analysis software. Strategies for enhancing innovation and community development through ‘network weaving’ were then suggested. A series of follow-up activities are now underway in collaboration with community partners. This panel explores the engagement between researchers at Memorial University and partners across the province in the production, validation, and use of knowledge. It highlights the importance of university-government-community partnerships. The session will also invite participants to share their own ...