Academia and industry have forged a partnership to benefit Pictou County.

St. Francis Xavier University is teaming up with IGNITE Atlantic to strengthen collaboration between researchers, students, business and community organizations.

IGNITE and StFX say they will work together to:

• Increase awareness of research and technical expertise available at StFX to support business growth in Pictou County.
• Facilitate collaborations between StFX researchers and local businesses and organizations to enhance innovation and problem-solving.
• Expand student placement opportunities, including internships, work-integrated learning programs, and research initiatives.
• Co-host networking events and workshops connecting StFX faculty with small businesses, non-profits, and community organizations.
• Encourage the use of IGNITE’s space for StFX-led research activities, meetings, and engagements.

In a statement, CEO of the rural innovation hub Doug Jones says, “By leveraging StFX’s research expertise and resources, we can help local businesses innovate, grow, and compete on a larger scale.”

StFX Interim Associate VP Research, Graduate and Professional Studies Dr. Karen Brebner says, “St. Francis Xavier University is looking forward to partnering with IGNITE Pictou County. We are committed to finding new ways to support the economic development of northeastern Nova Scotia and to work with our local communities to expand our partnerships, especially in the area of work-integrated learning opportunities for our students. Our faculty and students will offer exceptional research, innovation, and educational programming to the business community in Pictou County.”