Alberta & 3M Canada partner to create new opportunities for healthcare innovation, diversification

A partnership aimed at developing and testing medical technologies in Alberta has announced its first project.

The collaboration between the Government of Alberta, 3M Canada and the University of Calgary is designed to help establish Alberta as a hub for medical product innovation and improve the health and wellness of Albertans.

The first project awarded funding is testing the effectiveness of a pressure bandage for the care of patients undergoing orthopaedic surgeries, such as on the knee joint, where the product could speed the healing process.

“Alberta is a valued partner for innovative companies like 3M to develop products. Along with health, this program opens the door to 3M expertise in areas like energy and the environment where we can create solutions that diversify our economy and create jobs.”

Lori Sigurdson Minster of Innovation and Advanced

Education

“As a science-based company, 3M produces thousands of innovative products and is a leader in scores of markets including health care, energy, and employee safety. We are proud to partner with the Government of Alberta, W21C, and AIHS on a valuable initiative such as this, which stresses the importance of innovation.”

Paul Madden, President and General Manager, 3M Canada

The collaboration is funded with $500,000 each from the Government of Alberta, through Alberta Innovates – Health Solutions (AIHS), and 3M Canada.

“Calgary has some of the best stroke outcomes in Canada. This is because of technology created in a University of Calgary partnership. We will be applying our research acumen towards developing medical technology and improving patient outcomes in Alberta. The University of Calgary is fully engaged within our community and we welcome the support of our province and of 3M.”

Elizabeth Cannon, President of the University of Calgary

“AIHS is proud to participate in this unique collaboration. Partnerships such as this one with 3M create important opportunities to improve the health and well-being of Albertans through technological and therapeutic innovations that can be used in care.”

Pamela Valentine, AIHS Interim Chief Executive Officer