Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Canada

Innovation and Opportunity Applied Research Scholarships

The Office of Applied Research and Innovation (OARI) at Saskatchewan Polytechnic encourages and facilitates students to go beyond their vocational training and use their new knowledge in applied research projects. OARI offers the Innovation and Opportunity Applied Research Scholarships of $1,000 to eligible projects to work with community and industry partners to solve real-world problems.

Scholarships are awarded to project proposals that fit into three sustainability-related themes of: health and social, environment and sustainability and technology. Scholarship recipients present their work at the annual Student Applied Research Showcase in May, giving them the opportunity to network with business and industry professionals, and a chance to win additional cash prizes.

Top 3 Learnings

1. De-mystify the applied research process for students – otherwise it can sound intimidating.
2. Build relationships with potential external partners to help match needs to project development.
3. Champion student success within the institution to promote future student engagement in the initiative.