Governments around the world are trying to prime the pump of the knowledge economy in their countries by funding and supporting research in the public and private sectors. Canada has focused its efforts on large investments in university research, indirect support of business through R&D tax credits, and a plethora of federal and provincial government funding programs.

Other OECD member countries differ in the amount they invest in supporting research as well as in the way they invest and in which areas. They also vary greatly in their performance according to measures such as productivity, research intensity, GDP growth, prosperity and quality of life.

Given the importance of the outcome – success in the global knowledge economy – it is important to assess current Canadian approaches to research, innovation and economic growth.

RE$EARCH MONEY will approach these issues by exploring the role of government research support in stimulating business innovation. How are Canada and other countries supporting economic growth through research in the private and public sectors? How are their investments in research support linked to industrial and economic strategies and programs? What are the expected outcomes of these investments and how do governments measure them? International, national and regional practitioners and experts will share their experiences and insights.