The Canadian Institute for Photonic Innovations of Quebec City has launched a program designed to help the industrial sector benefit from photonics technology that is developed in university laboratories throughout Canada. The Innovative Photonic Applications Program will bring together university researchers, technology implementers and end users to work on projects in which photonics will be used to solve specific problems and to increase efficiency, productivity and profit. Already in progress, the first project involves an aerospace company and researchers at two universities in Quebec.

The institute is hopeful that the program will stimulate the use of photonics not only in telecommunications, but also in manufacturing, transportation, pharmaceuticals, natural resources, and food and agriculture.