In the news: International visits to Technoparc, Africa-Canada Roundtable, 2019 Innovation Awards, news on the REM, prestigious lunch with the Chamber of Commerce. Services: meeting rooms, company francization, Netlift, restaurants and hotel as well as the monthly advice of our collaborators with the addition of two new ones.

In the news

Brazilian pharmaceutical Prati-Donaduzzi visits Technoparc

Last month at the Technoparc de Montréal, we met with a delegation from Brazil representing pharmaceutical company Prati-Donaduzzi, along with MTL INTL. We welcomed them to our Life Sciences and Health Technologies HUB (LSHT), the NEOMED Innovation Center (NIC), which is the engine and catalyst for the Montreal HUB. A visit of the facilities (laboratories and private offices) as well as the purification laboratory was able to give a good image of the CIN to the delegation which is currently in expansion project in North America. This is a good start to working together to help them with their site choices for their expansion.

Visit of Andorra at Technoparc

In October at the Technoparc de Montréal we had the honor of hosting a delegation from the Principality of Andorra. It was composed of Mr. Jordi Gallardo, Minister of the Presidency, Economy and Business, Mr Marc Galabert, State Secretary for Economic Diversification and Innovation and Mr Marc Pons, Director of the Andorra Innovation Center. The aim was to create collaboration and exchange links to start the project of the Andorra Innovation Center. We were able to present Technoparc Montréal’s business plan and visit one of our site’s innovation centers, namely the NEOMED Innovation Center, the Montreal Life Sciences and Health Technologies (LSHT) HUB, located in the heart of Technoparc. The first step being taken, the two entities have already set a second meeting to start the collaboration. “Benvingut a Technoparc!”
Your delegation wants to meet us to discuss collaboration and investment projects? Please contact us by email at info@technoparc.com right away!

The SITIC Africa-Canada at the Technoparc

Technoparc Montréal is proud to have hosted the Table ronde sur l’opportunité numérique africaine at our Alfred-Nobel Innovation Center. The participants came from different countries in Africa and some Montreal and Technoparc companies. Presented by Mr Karl Miville de Chêne from Contacts Monde, the Round Table provided a good premise for what will be proposed to the participants of the Salon international des technologies de l’information et de la communication Afrique-Canada 2019 which will take place from the 12th to the 13th of November 2019 at the Plaza Downtown Montreal. Companies wishing to participate in this show can obtain all the information via this link.

2019 Innovation Awards Gala

Technoparc Montréal is proud to participate at the 29th Gala des Prix Innovation of the ADRIQ-RCTi, as the presenter of the evening. This event underlines the companies and builders who give a leading role to research and innovation. The ADRIQ-RCTi Innovation Awards Gala, recognized as the most prestigious event of the Quebec innovation community, will take place on Thursday, November 21, 2019 at the Palais des congrès de Montréal. Note that the NEOMED Innovation Center is a finalist for the 2019 Life Sciences Innovation Award, which will be presented again by BIOQuébec and Innovative Medicines Canada.
More than 450 decision-makers from the research and innovation ecosystem and renowned guests are expected. Click this link for more information or to participate

Collaboration with the organization Canada China Small and Medium Enterprises

Technoparc is pleased to have hosted a Canadian-Chinese delegation from collaborative efforts with Canada China Small and Medium Enterprises (CCSME). Participants from the delegation visited the Technoparc with the goal of setting up a clean technology research center. The quality of life at the Technoparc and the support provided by our team was greatly appreciated and plans to move-in shortly where elaborated. A good example of collaboration with the CCPME organization with which we intend to intensify our relations!

RDV de l’écocitoyen corporatif

On October 25, 2019 took place the RDV de l’écocitoyen corporatif in which Technoparc Montréal acted as the host of the event. This morning of exchange aimed to equip the entrepreneurs who have not yet followed the step of sustainable development and to present solutions to them so that their company is effective and efficient, while capitalizing on eco-responsible practices. The participants were able to meet with Saint-Laurent entrepreneurs, leaders in sustainable development, who shared their best practices and answered their questions. They were also able to hear a Q&A with Mr. Luc Duguay of Développement Économique Saint-Laurent (DESTL) and Mr. Carl Baillargeon of Technoparc Montréal, listen to an inspiring speech by Mr. Alan DeSousa, Mayor of the Borough of Saint-Laurent and attend a lecture given by Ms. Marie-Josée Richer, co-founder of Prana. Very nice event organized by the DESTL team. Mark your calendar for next year!

NEOMED Innovation Center in Brazil

Last month, the NEOMED Innovation Center (NIC) visited the Brazilian pharmaceutical head-office of Prati-Donaduzzi in the city of Toledo, in the province of Parana. There were two main objectives during this visit. The first was to provide support and collaboration for their Biopark Brasil development project, which takes inspiration from several practical and technical aspects of the Technoparc de Montréal and the NIC, the Life Sciences and Health Technologies (LSHT) Hub of Montreal. A federal university is already established and a second building is currently under intensive construction. Ultimately, the Biopark will expand to more than 50M square feet, hosting more than 30,000 science and technology employees. The second was to follow up on the recent visit of Prati-Donaduzzi senior executives to the NIC in Montreal. The company is the largest manufacturer and distributor of generic medicines in Brazil and is looking to expand its operations in North America. The on-site meetings between the two organizations surely helped to make this project evolve in a positive way, with Montreal becoming one of the first choice for their expansion. A great way to share expertise and intensify future collaborations.

REM: the tunnel boring machine (TBM) is arriving at the Technoparc

To celebrate, participate in the REM contest “Suggest a name for the TBM”. It is a tradition in the construction industry to give these impressive machines a name. They did this a few months ago for the two launching beams “Anne and “Marie”; now it’s your turn to come up with a name for the TBM. Tradition dictates that proposals must be a female first name. The TBMs are placed under the protection of Saint Barbara, patron saint and protector of miners and underground workers. They will form an internal committee with the TBM managers of the REM project office and NouvLR. The person who suggests the winning name will participate in a site tour and the inauguration of the TBM in December.
Click this link to participate.

REM: the TBM, how does it work?

It’s a go! The REM tunnel between the Technoparc Montréal station and the airport is taking off! (pun intended…). Excellent news for the continuity of the REM work in the Technoparc. Thanks to the advanced TBM technology that will dig up 1.7 meters per hour while building the walls, work will be fast and efficient. How does this famous TBM work? CTV News reported on the technology, with the spokesperson of the REM. A video to see and share.

Prestige Conference of the Chamber of Commerce

Last month, Technoparc Montréal took part in the “Prestige Conference” event organized by the team of the Chambre de Commerce et d’industrie de Saint-Laurent – Mont-Royal (CCSL-MR). During the lunch served at the Crystal Reception Hall, the Mayor of the Borough of Saint-Laurent, Mr. Alan DeSousa, delivered a most inspiring speech in terms of sustainable development for local businesses and for citizens of the Borough. VIPs were present, as well as members of the Saint-Laurent / Ville Mont-Royal business community and beyond. This conference was a kick-off to sustainable development activities that took place during the month of October 2019. A superb event of the CCSL-MR which posted “full”!

Job offers in Life Sciences

Repare Therapeutics is growing, and they are always looking for highly innovative and collaborative individuals who are passionate about discovering revolutionary cancer treatments. If you are interested in joining the Repare Therapeutics team, please apply to one of their open positions! Simply click this link to see the available positions.

RESIDENT SERVICES

The Technoparc is “hot”

The Montréal Technoparc is an active site in the real estate market in Montreal and in Canada. Currently, we have these spaces and buildings available:-A development project-offices on Albert-Einstein;-Some spaces to rent in buildings distributed throughout the site, especially on Alfred-Nobel boulevard;-New laboratories and office spaces in the expansion project of the NEOMED Innovation Center, located on rue Frederick-Banting, the street of the life sciences HUB in Montreal;
-A modern building for sale, also located on rue Frederick-Banting;-Some co-working and office spaces in our innovation centers;- Eco-friendly buildings in our Éco-campus Hubert Reeves site, the symbiosis between workplace and nature.
Quality of life for your employees. Accessible. Multiple on-site commercial services. Active population. A park in which greenery and nature prevail (a total of 28% of the site is considered “green spaces”). First REM station leaving the Montreal International Airport. THE site for your company and your employees! Interested in joining this “HOT” site?Contact Carl Baillargeon of Technoparc Montréal now at cbaillargeon@technoparc.com or 514-956-2525, extension 2530.

Meeting rooms at Technoparc

Would you like to make your team meeting or presentation in a modern setting, surrounded by the abundant nature of the Technoparc? We have 4 beautiful rooms available for all kinds of meetings. The two large rooms can accommodate up to 25 people while the two smaller rooms can accommodate up to 8 people. The rooms are equipped with high-performance audiovisual equipment, projection, speakers, audio-conference system and more. Food services available ($) for either coffee breaks, refreshments or full meals. Rates are $ 30 an hour for small rooms and $ 60 an hour for large rooms. Contact us to reserve your space!

Free custom francisation for your company

Your employees are qualified and competent, but is their knowledge of French hindering their full integration? Les Services aux entreprises de la Commission scolaire Marguerite-Bourgeoys (CSMB) provide French courses that are free for your employees and allow you to be reimbursed for their salaries while in training. From identifying your specific needs and context to delivering training, our advisers will implement a framework (place, time, group format) and tailored content (proficiency levels in French, vocabulary specific to functions performed by participants, corporate culture). More information: michel.lavoie10@csmb.qc.ca Tel.: 514 855-4500, ext. 8820.

K.I.D.S Daycare at Technoparc

Did you know that K.I.D.S. Daycare offers high quality day care at the Technoparc? They include monthly themes, such as arts and music, and offer music, dance, physical education and yoga classes to the children. Their meals are fresh and homemade daily. They have two spacious outdoor courtyards plus an indoor gymnasium and special events are offered throughout the year. For more information, visit their Website or contact Susan at 514-332-8295.

Tire changes at the Technoparc

The tire installation service is back at the Technoparc with the company Instapneus in the parking lot of the 2300 Alfred-Nobel. The company was here on October 30th and November 6th and there is still one date available on November 21st, 2019. To register, please go to the company’s Website at instapneus.com in the section “Inscription pour rendez-vous” + “Rendez-vous à l’entreprise” and select the date that indicates “Technoparc Montréal “. Have a happy “Techno” road this winter!

Netlift more and more active

Carpooling has the wind in the sails! As a result of the launch of the Thales Canada Avionics carpool program with the active participation of Ms. Luana Borelli of Technoparc Montreal, Netlift wishes to give all Technoparc companies the opportunity to discover the benefits of microtransit. Do not wait any longer to use their growing services! You can contact Netlift through their Website for more details.

Innovation centers at the Technoparc

Did you know that there are two innovation centers in the heart of the Technoparc? They are open to all sizes of businesses, from start-ups to SMEs, who wish to establish themselves in the largest science and high technology park in Canada. These two centers of innovation already have more than forty companies, which encourages easy exchanges, which ultimately can become commercial collaborations. There are still some spaces available in our two centers, contact us at info@technoparc.com. More info on our 2 innovation centers are available through our Website.

“Technoparc advantage” at the Home2 Suites

The brand new Home2 Suites par Hilton Montréal Dorval is an all-suites extended stay hotel conveniently located at 1855 Trans Canada – a quick 5 minutes drive from the Technoparc de Montréal. Their spacious suites include a living room area, full kitchen and Working Wall. Their rates include daily continental buffet breakfast, WiFi, local/long distance calls, indoor/outdoor parking, access to the gym and indoor swimming pool and outdoor fire pit and BBQ grills. Exclusive offer to Technoparc Montréal Residents: 10% rebate off their rates. Simply call and ask for the Technoparc Montreal rate or book directly online using corporate code: 0003200995. An ID will be required upon arrival. Don’t forget to also share with your visitors. Enjoy your “Techno” stay!

Six Restos at Technoparc

Did you know that there are six restos at the Technoparc and that they are open to the public? They are in the building of the NEOMED Institute (2 services meals at $8.70 plus taxes), Place Innovation (Bombardier building), 2600 Alfred-Nobel and Novotel. Did you know that in Place Innovation, there is a large food court offering different dishes, including Crudessence dishes and Tim Hortons and Bento Sushi counters? Take a tour to discover the complete offer of the food fair and, a little further, the Van Houtte counter with cafes, pastries and sandwiches! It’s open to all, so don’t feel shy to walk into the building and follow the pictograms. To help you get there, click this Google Maps link.

Zoom resident: Crocus Laboratories

Crocus team has extensive experience in drug discovery/medicinal chemistry – particularly in the areas of oncology, infectious diseases, and ophthalmology. They are seeking collaborations and partnerships with academic groups, biotech, and pharmaceutical companies with the goal to discover and develop novel medicines. To get more information on the company, please see their Website.

Monthly Sustainability Tips & Insights from ERA: Happy Belated Bat Week

Bat week is an annual international celebration of the importance of bats. Last year in honor of bat week ERA Environmental installed a bat house behind our building in the Technoparc. This year, ERA Environmental partnered with John Bradburn, Christopher Honos, and Technoparc Montréal to install a bat house/nesting box in the Éco-campus Hubert Reeves.
A nesting box can make life a little easier for bats looking for a roosting spot. Bats need different roosting conditions at different times of the year and one box can house up to 150 little brown bats.
The bat house is the brainchild of John Bradburn, an expert sustainability consultant at ERA Environmental and the previous global manager of waste reduction at General Motors.
The bat house is made from old Chevy Volt battery covers. John felt that rather than recycling them, which can use more energy and resources, he could repurpose the materials to build bat houses!
Bats are in decline nearly everywhere. They face a multitude of threats including habitat loss, destruction of roost sites, climate change; and much more. Worldwide, about 24% of bats are considered critically endangered, endangered, or vulnerable.
Next time you’re walking through the Éco-campus Hubert Reeves, make sure to go check the new Technoparc Bat house. Come also check out the ERA Bat House at 7200 Frederick-Banting. A big thank you to Christopher Honos and his colleagues at Arbocare for installing the Bat house! For more info about Arbocare go to arbocare.com or call 514-826-6791.
Questions about this tip? For more information, please send an email to ERA at info@era-ehs.com or see their Website.

CERASP’s monthly advise: the case for Diversity and Inclusion in small businesses

There is a trend in Training and Development in the last year for workshops on Diversity & Inclusion (D&I). Larger organizations have been tackling this issue for the last few years and many business articles address this. What about small businesses? Should this be an area of concern? I asked Robert Hanna (McGill-HEC EMBA 2021) this question.
Robert does international business development, facilitates complex and competitive, web-based business simulations for corporate clients and MBA programs globally and is an entrepreneur to boot. His answer was yes, for a few reasons. In his work around the world, he has seen that “Diversity delivers better business results, even in small teams of 5-6 people – better decision making and better financial results”.
From his observations, diversity in a team forces the team to challenge themselves at the start: get to know each other and learn different points of view and harness the best of each member, building a strong way forward. When making decisions, members of a diverse team are more likely to challenge each other’s assumptions and perspectives and harness each other’s unique experience that drives them to see actions in another light.
As well, Robert has seen that homogeneity tends to lead to groupthink or even group assumptions, because without a deeper discussion, there is a lot of agreement with less provocation to think out of the box.
Another interesting point he brought up was the definition of diversity. Diversity includes not only culture, gender, and religion, but also factors like age, functional experience, language, interests, personality types and more. Where does Inclusion fit in this? Well, you cannot have Diversity without Inclusion. He also points out that D&I is not a political statement, to promote personal politics. It is, in business, the opportunity to focus on building a strong team for a strong organization to make better decisions and focus on economic growth. This is the basis to ensure the survival of any small business.
The CERASP is a CCTT (College Center for Technical Transfer), dedicated to helping pharmaceutical start-ups and PME, through assisting in applied research, equipment grants and training, business development services and training and developing staff. Christina Aon is the Technical Lead. She can be reached at christina.aon@cerasp.ca . You can also consult their Website for more information.

The Monthly Web Marketing Advice by Expandify: VRIN

In today’s digital world, it is extremely important to stand out. There are many ways to do this and one of the most important ways is by having great content while providing value. The problem is most businesses don’t know how to go about creating great content. Here is a simple rule you can follow called “VRIN” that will help you up your social media in 2020.
The “VRIN” Score acronym, stands for the following four factors of measurement: Value, Rarity, Inimitable and Non-substitutable.
The VRIN score system is based out of 40. Each category within the VRIN system is rated out of 10. The goal of the VRIN score system is very simple. It’s to help businesses give their followers a reason to keep following them on their social media accounts.
First, let’s start with the letter “V”. The letter “V” stands for value. Give your followers what they are interested in. Think of what they will see or get out of following your account.
Next up is the letter “R”. The letter “R” stands for rarity. You must try your hardest to provide content that people haven’t seen before. Think to yourself, how many other accounts out there are posting similar content?
The third is the letter I. The letter “I” represents the word Inimitable. Create content that can’t be created easily. Not must it be rare, but it must also be extremely unique and genuine.
Finally, the letter N. The letter “N” stands for Non-substitutable. Post content that people can’t live without and create timeless content, so as time goes on, your post is still relevant.
To learn more about the best practices discussed here, get in contact with Expandify Marketing which\offers you a free strategic planning session! You can contact their team: by phone (514) 973-2083 or email contact@expandify.ca. You can also visit their Website.

Molecular Forecaster:
Get informed before contracting in silico research – intellectual property

In October, we provided a list of considerations when contracting in silico research services. In the coming months, we will discuss the common options, importance, and implications of each issue. This month: “Do you retain any I.P. on discovered molecules?”
The importance and implications of generating novel I.P. are generally self-explanatory. You are handing over potentially intimate drug discovery information to another company—are you also handing over rights to new discoveries or competition? Consider if the service provider is also conducting his or her own internal drug discovery programs. In our experience, I.P. is generally retained entirely by the client and non-disclosure/non-compete clauses are signed, but that may be project-dependent. In computational drug discovery, the service provider tends to be more involved in decision-making by lending expertise and knowledge to the design, rather than carrying out given instructions. As a result, they may feel more entitled to novel discoveries. Depending on the nature of the project and the parties involved, sometimes a partnership where I.P. may be shared is more appropriate. In any case, an open discussion is highly recommended. Since computational chemistry is but one tool in the drug discovery toolbox, it is not always a viable approach for a project. We recommend that you challenge any claims of guaranteed success to probe the transparency and honesty of your prospective partner.
If you’d like to learn more or inquire about their software and services, please don’t hesitate to reach out. E-mail them at info@molecularforecaster.com, or visit their Website.

KPI Digital: three AI trends that will grow revenue

Ultimately everyone needs to grow revenue. Today that’s done by delivering a better customer experience. With so many new channels, technologies, and touchpoints — chatbots, voice-based assistants and AI — it’s not easy to be an expert in all of them and deliver consistently across channels. AI can change the way you analyze data, improve customer experience, in the moment and ultimately grow revenue. Here’s how you can personalize the experience and benefit the customer in real time!
-Chatbots. Use natural language processing and sentiment analytics to offer more services, faster.
-Visual search for social shopping. Take a picture of the item you want, quickly search it on-line, match it and purchase it.
-Voice search. Optimize your website content for voice search. Improvements in speech recognition can provide a more seamless purchasing experience.
Want more insights? Let us show you how improving customer experience ultimately grows revenue! Schedule a meeting now.
Interested to know more about this topic? Contact Lori Cohen, Vice President Marketing KPI Digital, at 514-426-9467 ext. 117, by email Lori.Cohen@KPIDigital.com or consult their Website.