Rideau Hall Foundation launches inaugural Canadian Innovation Week

As part of its commitment to strengthening Canada’s culture of innovation, the Rideau Hall Foundation (RHF) introduced the first annual Canadian Innovation Week (May 22-31). The week will bring together partners and stakeholders from the innovation ecosystem to connect, cultivate and celebrate Canadian innovation.

Logo: Canadian Innovation Week (CNW Group/Rideau Hall Foundation)

With an eye to inspiring the next generation, and making Canada the most innovative country in the world, the week shines a spotlight on innovation-related events and activities across the country. Engaging events throughout the week are anchored around the presentation of the Governor General’s Innovation Awards on May 23rd. Each year the awards commend the trailblazers and creators whose work has a transformative and positive impact on the quality of life in Canada.

“We, as a nation, need to work at fostering a culture of innovation that recognizes achievement and inspires the next generation,” said the Right Honourable David Johnston, 28th Governor General of Canada and Chair of the Rideau Hall Foundation. “Canadian Innovation Week is an important initiative that does exactly that via a unique partnership platform for connecting, celebrating and cultivating innovation in Canada.”

Creation of new products and services to increase productivity is key to Canada’s success

The RHF invites Canadians to participate in the week by sharing their organization’s innovation stories, join events in their region, be a part of the #CanadianInnovationWeek conversation on social media, and more. Educators are encouraged to take advantage of free classroom resources designed for students in grades K-12. Up-to-date event listings and great tools can be found at http://www.canadianinnovationspace.ca/innovation-week.

In today’s competitive and interconnected world, increasing productivity through the creation of new products and services, improving public sector performance, and building an inclusive, compassionate society will be the keys to Canada’s success.

“Canada is an innovation-led nation and that needs to be recognized. Canadians from all parts of the country are leading the way,” said the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development. “Our Innovation and Skills Plan is helping all Canadians on the path to success. Innovation Week is a chance to shine some light on our success in building one of the most innovative economies in the world.”

To coincide with Canadian Innovation Week, the RHF has launched Canadian Innovation Space, a digital, public platform offering resources, tools, and events that will keep innovation top-of-mind year-round. Discover more at http://www.canadianinnovationspace.ca/.