August 25, 2023 – Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) is receiving over $2.5 million in federal funding to establish the Alternative Construction Technologies Centre.

“Today’s investment will help spur innovation in the construction sector and ensure this vital economic driver remains a competitive and sustainable source of jobs for Alberta workers for years to come,” said Hon. Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan.

The new facility will bring together the manufacturing, automation and robotics, materials science, and construction sectors “to create innovative technologies used in the construction industry”.

It will be home to specialized equipment and laboratories that small- and medium-sized businesses can use to develop, test, and commercialize new products, processes and services for the construction sector.

The Alternative centre is expected to be fully operational by 2025.

“This investment in smart manufacturing and materials will create vital new opportunities to collaborate with industry in their efforts to advance faster, greener and more affordable home construction,” said Dr. David Ross, president and CEO, SAIT.

PrairiesCan funding of $2,594,000 is allocated through the Regional Innovation Ecosystems program, which “creates and nurtures inclusive regional ecosystems that support businesses to innovate from start to finish”.