With key tax credit under microscope, biotech firms say it should stay, be improved
As the federal government starts reviewing a tax credit key to the biotechnology sector, some industry representatives say they’re happy with it but would like to see its eligibility expanded, whereas others think documentation standards are too high. The Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED, pronounced “shred”) program allows companies in Canada to get a […]
How government can spark venture capital for biotech success
As the government looks to shape its venture capital policy, biotechnology industry representatives say it’s important to minimize direct government intervention, instead letting the private sector decide what companies to invest in. The Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative (VCCI), as announced in the 2017 budget, is set to provide $400-million to help ease the way for […]
To diffuse technology or not to diffuse: that’s the question
Let me give you a choice between two compelling narratives on the topic of diffusion—efforts to make technologies available by means of government policies. The first is an argument for the broad diffusion of biotechnologies, including synthetic biology and CRISPR (a genome editing tool). The other is an argument for a slow-down or clamp-down. You be […]
Biotechnology
Legal status of patented genes in Canada remains unclear, though recent settlement should defuse tension, say experts
A landmark settlement reached earlier this year over diagnostic testing is being lauded as a potential solution to the ethical and legal quagmire presented by genes patented by private companies. Work is currently underway to help develop a framework for provincial governments, on behalf of their publicly-operated hospitals, to appeal for legal use of patented genetic material […]
Biotech advocates call on the feds to strengthen industry incentives
The Liberal government must maintain or strengthen current financial supports for biotechnology companies to ensure the industry can continue to prosper in Canada, advocates say. Andrew Casey, president and CEO of BIOTECanada, an industry advocacy group, said Canada needs to continue to offer robust incentives for firms or else they could be lured to other countries […]
Biotechnology and Life Sciences
Canada’s biotechnology industry ready to take centre stage
With the Canadian dollar and the price of oil hitting historical lows it is not surprising that while at the recent World Economic Forum in Davos, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was asked about Canada’s economic prospects in the face of this economic headwind. Trudeau quite correctly noted Canada’s economic strength lies in its diversity which […]
Biotechnology
Biotechnology
