Many programs developed by OCRI foster entrepreneurial success by providing entrepreneurs with the training, guidance and access to resources they need to develop profitable businesses.  With the ultimate goal of developing a world-class culture of innovation, OCRI works closely with Ottawa’s educational institutions, research facilities and local companies to facilitate learning, linkages and opportunities for students and the companies themselves.  Several programs initiated over the past two years are designed to fill the talent pipeline and produce qualified critical talent that will support and drive Ottawa’s knowledge-based industries.  OCRI is a champion for education, working together with the boards, universities and colleges to help make  education more accessible to students and improve the education experience for students in need.  By providing critical links between the entrepreneurial community and increasing number of SMEs with the world-class, entrepreneurially-minded students eager for real-life work experience, OCRI is helping to ensure that Ottawa is well equipped with generations of skilled and enthusiastic talent.

Through initiatives such as: the High School Technology Pilot program, which was spearheaded by Ottawa’s software cluster; TalentBridge, which partners engineering and computer science students with local SME’s to foster entrepreneurial skills; and a variety of school-to-work transition programs designed to help students make informed decisions regarding their career paths, OCRI plays an important role in the future of Ottawa’s youth.