NEIA supportive of government’s efforts in resetting NL’s business innovation agenda

For Immediate Release
August 8, 2017

ST. JOHN’S, NL – Following the release of a ‘What We Heard’ document – a compilation of views from industry, academia, government, and community stakeholders on how to support increased innovation in the province – the Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) continues to be supportive of the government’s efforts in resetting the business innovation agenda.

“Throughout NEIA’s participation in this engagement process, the top priorities for our members have centered around improved access to innovation supports,” said Kieran Hanley, NEIA’s Executive Directory. “It is clear that this message was well received by our government partners.”

Hanley noted that the ‘What We Heard’ document explicitly references an expressed need for more nimble and flexible program delivery. “An agile support framework is important for the environmental sector of business,” said Hanley. “Typically a product, service, or process that reduces environmental effects or risks represents something new – and new ideas are not always compatible with rigid programming.”

Hanley was also pleased to see that the document reflected the pressing need for the government to modernize its procurement policy. “NEIA has been advocating for the reform of procurement regulations for years,” said Hanley. “A modern procurement framework can facilitate the adoption of innovative products and services made right here that could then be exported worldwide.”

Hanley said NEIA’s members are eager to access new innovation programming, and are excited to learn more about InnovateNL – the province’s new single-window for the delivery of innovation programs. “We are looking forward to seeing the province’s new approach to supporting the business innovation agenda in action, and are hoping to see specifics soon.”

NEIA is a not-for-profit association of businesses that promotes the development of clean technology and the growth of the green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. NEIA has over 200 members. More information can be found at https://neia.org.

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Media Contact:
Kieran Hanley
kieran@neia.org