Opinion poll reveals biotechnology is the way for Canada’s future prosperity

Nine out of ten Canadians believe biotechnology is important to Canada’s future prosperity and eight out of ten supported grants to emerging companies, according to BIOTECanada’s annual opinion poll, released at the launch of National Biotechnology Week. The poll, conducted by Nanos Research, found overwhelmingly support among Canadians for biotechnology’s contribution to our economy and global competitiveness, and support for government action to aid the industry:

• 9 out of 10 believed the biotechnology industry is important part of Canada’s future economic prosperity.
• 3 out of 4 were concerned about Canada’s global competitiveness in science and technology.
• 4 of every 5 would be concerned about the loss of emerging Canadian biotechnology firms.
• 8 out of 10 supported grants to companies for research and product development.
• 4 out of 10 believed the Government of Canada is doing a good job of supporting emerging companies seeking to commercialize products.

“These results show that even during difficult economic times, Canadians are thinking about our economic future, and want to see strong vision and action from our governments to support science leadership,” said Peter Brenders, President and CEO of BIOTECanada. “As the biotechnology industry faces challenges of access to capital, of market introduction for biotechnological health advances, and other hurdles, it is especially positive to hear Canadians voice support for government action.”