NBIF Announces $910,000 Investment in Three Leading Research Centres to Fuel Innovation in New Brunswick

The New Brunswick Innovation Foundation (NBIF) is pleased to announce a strategic investment totaling $910,000 in three premier research facilities across the province. These funds are earmarked for the University of New Brunswick’s Marine Additive Manufacturing Centre of Excellence (UNB MAMCE), UNB’s Nanocomposites and Mechanics Laboratory, and the Université de Moncton’s Centre for Training in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (CFRIA) in Shippagan.

“These strategic investments by NBIF highlight the foundation’s ongoing commitment to propelling New Brunswick as a leader in technological innovation and economic development,” said NBIF CEO, Jeff White. “By supporting these research centres, NBIF is not just funding projects but investing in the future of New Brunswick’s industries and workforce.”

The funding, part of the NBIF Strategic Opportunities Fund, is matched by substantial federal funding and private contributions, reinforcing the collaborative effort between provincial, federal, and private sectors to advance technological development and application in New Brunswick.

UNB’s Marine Additive Manufacturing Centre of Excellence will receive $300,000 from NBIF, contributing to the centre’s pioneering work in 3D printing for the marine industry. This investment will support the development of new additive manufacturing methods, crucial for the production of marine vessels and infrastructure. With matching contributions from various partners and private entities, MAMCE under Dr. Mohsen Mohammadi’s leadership, aims to revolutionize marine sector maintenance and manufacturing processes.

The Université de Moncton’s CFRIA in Shippagan will receive a $210,000 investment from NBIF aimed at expanding the centre’s capabilities in robotics and AI training. This funding, combined with federal and in-kind investment from industry partners, will enhance CFRIA’s resources to serve the industrial needs of Northeastern New Brunswick, under the guidance of Dr. Sid Ahmed Selouani. The project focuses on integrating advanced robotics tools and AI technologies to bolster local industries, from fisheries to wood products.

UNB’s Nanocomposites and Mechanics Laboratory will receive a $400,000 investment to secure its role within the Canadian Alliance in Cold Spray Technology (CACST). This funding, part of a larger initiative supported by a $1.275M grant from the Canadian Foundation for Innovation, positions UNB and Dr. Gobinda Saha’s team at the forefront of cold spray material development and application. This investment not only underscores UNB’s leadership in advanced manufacturing but also builds upon NBIF’s longstanding support for UNB’s nanocomposite research efforts.

About NBIF: The New Brunswick Innovation Foundation (NBIF) is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to fostering innovation and research in New Brunswick. Through strategic funding and partnerships, NBIF supports the development of innovative technologies and research initiatives that drive economic growth and benefit society.  Since 2003, NBIF has invested more than $175 million into startup and applied research – attracting additional capital resulting in $1 billion of investment to help New Brunswick innovators take their ideas further. The success of NBIF’s investments have been pivotal in the development of attracting additional private investment, recruiting talent, creating jobs, and diversifying the economic opportunities for New Brunswick.  Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2023, NBIF has the longest history of backing venture in Atlantic Canada.

Media inquiries: Heather Libbey (heather.libbey@nbif.ca)