$1M funding supports innovative companies

Ottawa, ON – Nearly $1 million in funding from the National Research Council (NRC) is being provided to two companies in Quebec. A total of $495,000 is being given to OmegaChem Inc and $498,500 to Opsens Inc.

OmegaChem will use the funding to create new synthetic steroids that could lead to powerful new medications. The funding will support Opsens in developing new optical technology to measure blood pressure.

Based in the Québec area, OmegaChem sources, develops and produces chemical intermediates, key ingredients in prescription drugs, for the chemical and biotechnology industry, and particularly the international pharmaceutical industry. As well as supplying a wide range of fine chemicals, OmegaChem also offers process and manufacturing services.

“In order to stand out internationally and ensure the success of our company, we must continuously innovate through clever, timely and relevant research and development,” said François Laflamme, the company’s president. “In fact, innovation is at the core of our business and is key to our past, current and future successes.”

Opsens develops, manufactures and supplies fibre optic sensors and signal conditioners for measuring pressure, temperature, strain and displacement for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and end-users in oil and gas, medical, high-power transformers and laboratory industries.

“Investing in science and technology is critical for developing highly skilled people and improving the long-term competitiveness of Canadian firms,” said NRC Acting President Daniel Gosselin. “That’s why NRC-IRAP is helping innovative Canadian businesses like OmegaChem and Opsens grow stronger, faster and bigger.”