In partnership with Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) Genome BC launched the POC program as part of its Strategic Plan (2010-2015). The new program will facilitate the development of POC projects based at academic institutions across the life sciences sectors.

The program’s goals include:

• Accelerating the commercialization process for new genomics-related scientific or technological innovations;
• Facilitating the advancement of discoveries based in genomics from the innovation to proof-of-concept stage "in a real world setting";
• Development of new and novel products and services to the point that they are ready for licensing, industry investment, or spin-out.

The POC program represents a total investment of $8.7M for new research projects, with $4.35M provided jointly by Genome BC and WD (e.g. $2.175M from each), to provide much needed investment to accelerate application of genomics to BC’s life sciences sectors.

The program is expected to support projects of approximately $50,000 to $500,000 total ($25,000 to $250,000 from Genome BC) and funding may be staged, dependent on successful completion of approved milestones and deliverables. Under exceptional circumstances awards larger than $250,000 may be considered. All projects must be completed by September 2013. Projects must be co-funded at a 1:1 ratio by other eligible sources as outlined below.  Genome BC funding can only be used by eligible researchers working in BC-based academic institutions, but national and international collaborations are strongly encouraged.

Where appropriate, projects are strongly encouraged to partner with existing BC facilities, including the S&T Innovation Centres, as the POC program will not assist in the building of new infrastructure capacity.

Please review the Required Documents:
•    Program Guidelines (PDF Format)
•    Application Form (DOC format)
•    Budget (XLS format) - updated February 2012

The deadline for the current  intake of full applications has closed.

Any teams wishing to apply to this program should contact Alison Dendoff, New Programs Coordinator, by email to poc@genomebc.ca.