GlaxoSmithKline has launched the GSK Canada Life Sciences Innovation Fund, a new national $50 million fund that will significantly advance the commercialization of scientific innovation in Canada by investing in early stage breakthrough research. The fund will identify strategic investment opportunities within Canada’s life sciences industry including academic and health institutions, translational research centres and start-up companies.

“The GSK Canada Life Sciences Innovation Fund will provide a competitive advantage to Canada’s life sciences industry and help advance the commercialization of research,” said Paul Lucas, president and CEO, GlaxoSmithKline. “This is an important step in addressing Canada’s innovation gap and we’re excited by the prospect of developing even closer ties with leading research organizations across Canada to enhance opportunities for innovation and create new high-value jobs.”

Managed by GlaxoSmithKline in Canada and GSK’s global corporate venture capital arm SR One, the new fund strengthens GSK’s position as a Canadian R&D leader and offers the company a unique opportunity to help close Canada’s innovation gap. Through direct investment, Canadian researchers, academics and organizations focused on high-potential early-stage research, have a unique opportunity to benefit from GSK’s global R&D experience.