CME kicks off SR&ED reforms advocacy efforts with successful day in Ottawa

Ottawa, February 7, 2018

Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) representatives today met with government officials in Ottawa in the context of the review of the Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) program. The objective of these meetings was to consult with decision-makers on possible improvements to government support initiatives for research and innovation.

CME is conducting extensive research into the federal SR&ED program and how it can be leveraged to boost the creation and adoption of innovative technologies, advanced manufacturing processes and new product commercialization in the manufacturing sector. In addition to consultations with officials, CME gathered input from members through an online survey and in-person roundtable events across the country. After a thorough review of the findings, CME will issue specific recommendations to improve the program.

In Industrie 2030, CME’s comprehensive and ambitious plan to double manufacturing exports by 2030, the overhaul and modernization of the SR&ED program was identified as a priority to bridge the gap in supporting manufacturing innovation, commercialization and product development. In Budget 2017, the federal government announced it would review the program, as was recommended by CME.

ABOUT CANADIAN MANUFACTURERS & EXPORTERS

Since 1871, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters has been helping manufacturers grow at home and, compete around the world. Our focus is to ensure manufacturers are recognized as engines for growth in the economy, with Canada acknowledged as both a global leader and innovator in advanced manufacturing and a global leader in exporting. CME is a member-driven association that directly represents more than 2,500 leading companies who account for an estimated 82 per cent of manufacturing output and 90 per cent of Canada’s exports.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Stefi Proulx

Director of Communications & Branding

Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters

(613) 292-6070

stefi.proulx@cme-mec.ca