SMARTS

The Selkirk-SME Applied Research and Technology Solutions (SMARTS) project connects small- and medium-sized businesses with applied research expertise in the fields of geospatial technology, digital fabrication and rapid prototyping.

Companies that innovate and embrace technology are leaders in today’s competitive economy. Many firms realize the importance of research and development, but don’t have the capacity or expertise they need to make their ideas happen. As a hub of innovation and learning, Selkirk College can offer applied research support to help businesses develop new products and services.

Support for Development of Products and Services

The goal of the SMARTS project is to engage in research that results in the development of innovative products or services that local businesses can bring to market. Businesses are eligible for the SMARTS project if they:

Selkirk College knows that research and development partnerships that involve marketable products or services require strict confidentiality. Businesses can rest assured that the College maintains confidentiality protocols to protect the interests of both the business and the College.


Funding Available for a Limited Time

The SMARTS project runs until mid-2021 and is supported by the National Research Council of Canada’s Industrial Research Assistance Program. Limited funding is available to cover the majority of research costs associated with eligible projects. In most cases, however, businesses will also be asked to contribute a portion of project expenses.


Research Team

Selkirk Geospatial Research Centre

The Selkirk Geospatial Research Centre (SGRC) provides access to skilled researchers and leading-edge technology that helps organizations meet their geospatial research, training, and reporting needs. Led by Ian Parfitt, the SGRC team are experts in technologies that enable remote sensing, web mapping and geospatial analysis.

School of Digital Arts and New Media

The School of Digital Arts and New Media (DANM) provides training for students that want to work in the new media industry, but it is also host to skilled researchers and state-of-the-art equipment that has been put to use solving research and development challenges faced by companies in the manufacturing and design sectors. Led by Jason Taylor, the DANM team applies innovative approaches to help companies meet their digital fabrication and rapid prototyping needs.

Other College Support

The Columbia Basin Rural Development Institute and the Community Education and Workplace Training department provide advisory and administrative support to the SMARTS project.


Apply for Support

Have a project idea that you want to explore with the SMARTS team? Fill out our online intake form, or contact the project coordinator.