Report Sections
The Impact Of Genome Atlantic
Assessment Summary
The impact assessment of Genome Atlantic over the period from 2018 to 2023 paints a compelling picture of an organization deeply integrated into the fabric of Atlantic Canada’s industrial and scientific communities. Through strategic foresight and a hands-on approach, Genome Atlantic has not only facilitated securing significant funding for applied genomics research and development (R&D) but has also played a central role in steering these projects to fruition. The organization’s ability to connect industry with cutting-edge research while managing the complexities of project execution has been instrumental in advancing genomics innovations in the region.
Genome Atlantic enables the shift from funding incremental science towards funding transformative
innovation.
1 Based on data provided by Genome Atlantic, as well as Statistics Canada data, an economic impact analysis covering the 2018 to 2023 period conducted by The Evidence Network.
End-User Driven Return on Investment of Genome Atlantic
2 The total end-user driven applied R&D investment is calculated by subtracting the ACOA and provincial line department investments in projects from the total $59.9 million spend on research and development enabled by Genome Atlantic over the 2018 to 2023 period.
Impact of Genome Atlantic and its Project Portfolio on Atlantic Canada
The assessment of Genome Atlantic revealed that the organization positively impacts Atlantic Canada in several ways. Over the 2018 to 2023 period, industry partners contributed $20.9 million to projects enabled by Genome Atlantic. This substantial financial commitment underscores private industry recognition of the transformative potential of genomics, reflecting a strategic investment in innovative technologies and methodologies that can lead to enhanced productivity, sustainability, and economic growth.
In addition to the end-user investments made by industry, Genome Atlantic played a significant role in attracting federal funds to the region. Over the 2018 to 2023 period, Genome Atlantic was instrumental in channeling $28 million from federal sources (excluding ACOA) into Atlantic Canada to support projects that are regionally pertinent and driven by industry needs. This sum includes a substantial contribution of $20.3 million from Genome Canada. Genome Atlantic successfully secured an additional $7.7 million from other federal funding sources within the 2018 to 2023 timeframe. These financial inflows, facilitated by Genome Atlantic, reflect funds that might have been allocated to other provinces if not for the successful project proposals enabled by the organization.
Furthermore, the funds attracted by and invested in Genome Atlantic stimulate economic activities across the Atlantic provinces. This stimulation contributes to the generation of GDP, employment, and tax revenue for governments at all levels in the form of direct, indirect, and induced economic impacts. The direct impacts are a result of the initial expenditures on operational and project-related activities. Indirect and induced impacts emerge from the connections with suppliers and service providers, as well as from the subsequent spending cascades in the broader economy. The table below summarizes the economic impact of Genome Atlantic and its project portfolio on Atlantic Canada. Over the 2018 to 2023 period, the funds attracted by and invested in Genome Atlantic have resulted in an estimated output of $178.7 million, an estimated contribution of $122.2 million to GDP, and an estimated $8.9 million in provincial and federal tax revenues. The $122.2 million estimated contribution to GDP results in a total return on investment (ROI) of $58.72; for every dollar of business development funding provided to Genome Atlantic by ACOA and the Atlantic provincial governments $58.72 was added to GDP.
In addition, the projects enabled by Genome Atlantic also impact regional capacity by allocating funds to employ highly qualified personnel. Over the 2018 to 2023 period, an estimated 927 jobs were supported through Genome Atlantic enabled projects and operations.
Component
Output3
Contribution to GDP4
Jobs Supported5
Direct Contributions
$118.6M
$80.6M
558
Indirect Contributions
$26.6M
$15.4M
171
Induced Contributions
$33.5M
$26.1M
197
Total
$178.7M
$122.2M
927
Beyond the economic contributions, the array of Genome Atlantic-enabled projects that were active during the five-year period from 2018 to 2023 were in alignment with the priorities of the four Atlantic provinces. The project portfolio reviewed by The Evidence Network encompassed many key sectors, including human health, energy, forestry, aquaculture, agriculture, and the environment. The portfolio also spanned Genome Atlantic’s core themes, namely: Growing Our Economy, Building a Sustainable Future, Mitigating Climate Change Impacts, and Improving Health Outcomes. Synthetic biology (SynBio) will play a critical role in fostering a sustainable future, and it represents a new area of interest for Genome Atlantic. Through a partnership with the Verschuren Centre in Cape Breton that was established in January 2023, Genome Atlantic provided SynBio startups seeking to address genomics challenges with streamlined access to their Genomics Opportunity Review Program (GORP). The amount of funding awarded via this collaboration represented only a small fraction of the overall funding enabled by Genome Atlantic during the five years evaluated.6 However, as described in the appended impact narrative, the GORP funding has been instrumental for the participating startups and represents an important initiative to advance innovative and eco-friendly biotechnological solutions in Atlantic Canada.
The analysis also finds that Genome Atlantic has been pivotal in some cases in aligning the innovation priorities of the Atlantic provinces towards shared objectives, such as the Atlantic Tree Improvement Council (AtlanTIC). The unique position of Genome Atlantic gives them a comprehensive view across the region, identifying opportunities that span the provinces. According to interviewees, the proactive approach of Genome Atlantic, wherein they actively seek key players, build relationships, and make connections, has been invaluable. Genome Atlantic’s ability to unite diverse stakeholders has been a hallmark of its operations. Whether connecting researchers and industry or making linkages between individuals already operating or researching in a particular field, Genome Atlantic has consistently facilitated fruitful collaborations.
Genome Atlantic’s ability to unite diverse stakeholders has been a hallmark of its operations.
Genome Atlantic proactively identifies and collaborates with proposal teams and researchers, guiding the allocation of funds in alignment with the region’s needs. This strategic approach ensures that investments are channeled into applied genomics R&D with significant industry impact, thereby fostering growth and enhancing capabilities within Atlantic Canada’s pivotal sectors. From the interviews conducted with project participants, it emerges that Genome Atlantic plays a crucial role in de-risking research for industry players, fostering an environment where academic-industry partnerships can thrive, and scientific discovery is accelerated. With a deep understanding of the broader genomics landscape and the specific needs of large industry players in the region, Genome Atlantic is proactive, not merely reactive, in its approach to fostering connections.
3 Outputs are the value of all sales of goods and services; the sum of the final purchases and intermediate inputs, therefore resulting in the double counting of intermediate purchases.
4 GDP captures only finished or final goods and services. It is a measure of the unduplicated monetary value of all finished goods and services made within a region during a specific period, that is, value added to the economy.
5 Full-time equivalent jobs created and retained calculated based on monetary outputs.
Impact of Genome Atlantic on the Projects
The operations of Genome Atlantic are funded through Genome Canada, ACOA, and the four Atlantic provincial governments. The total investment in Genome Atlantic operations was $6.0 million over the evaluation period. Compared to the approximate $59.9 million spend on applied R&D enabled by Genome Atlantic over that same period, the organization achieved a general and administrative (G&A) ratio of 9.2%. It is difficult to evaluate this ratio against those of peer organizations due to differences in expense allocation practices across Canada’s Genome Centre network. Further, the broad mandate of Genome Atlantic precludes a comparison to traditional granting councils, whose administrative expenses are largely focused on the distribution of funds. However, when combined with a holistic review of Genome Atlantic’s financials and the number of projects supported, it is evident that the organization is managing its overhead costs appropriately while still investing in the necessary administrative functions to effectively support the advancement of applied genomics R&D in the region.
Genome Atlantic uses its operational budget to offer comprehensive support to proposal and project teams across the entire opportunity lifecycle, from initial concept development and funding acquisition to execution and reporting, ensuring that the teams can focus on the R&D activities central to their project. Based on interviews with project team members, the support provided by Genome Atlantic may last anywhere from six months to upwards of five years, depending on the scale and complexity of the proposal to be developed and the duration of the project awarded funding. Genome Atlantic’s hands-on approach is outlined in Figure 1. It includes facilitating connections between industry and researchers, providing guidance throughout the proposal development process, and assisting with the complexities of project management and financial oversight.
Pipeline Development
Concept & Partnership Development
Pre-Proposal Activities
Proposal Planning
Proposal Development
Proposal Activities
Program & Project Management Support
Post-Award Activities
External Relations
General Activities
Genome Atlantic Role in Developing Projects
Interviewees consistently recognize Genome Atlantic’s pivotal role in fostering project development within the genomics field. They highlight the organization’s ability to grasp the overarching vision for the value of genomics for significant sectors in Atlantic Canada now and in the future. This is particularly important as several interviewees note that some of the most impactful genomics projects today were started decades ago by people with the foresight to see an opportunity and the fortitude to see the project through.
Genome Atlantic is an indispensable facilitator and architect in the growth and success of innovative genomics projects in Atlantic Canada.
Interviewees also comment that Genome Atlantic’s pan-provincial role puts them in a position to strategically align provincial priorities to leverage collective strengths for large-scale initiatives, such as the Atlantic Tree Improvement Council (AtlanTIC). Genome Atlantic’s proactive approach is commended for identifying funding opportunities well in advance and their knack for building robust partnerships. Stakeholders appreciate that Genome Atlantic is deeply embedded in the regional landscape, adept at connecting established players and ensuring that projects are well-positioned to meet both regional and national objectives. This strategic foresight, combined with their understanding of industry needs, positions Genome Atlantic as an indispensable facilitator and architect in the growth and success of innovative genomics projects in Atlantic Canada.
Genome Atlantic Role in Securing Funding for Projects
Interviewees emphasize Genome Atlantic’s instrumental role in securing funding for genomics projects. Navigating Canada’s complicated funding ecosystem can be daunting for even seasoned researchers and especially for industry partners, but Genome Atlantic’s expertise simplifies this process, guiding teams through the complexities. Although Genome Atlantic does not control its own large-scale funding stream, its position as a partner rather than a funder is seen as crucial.
Genome Atlantic’s proactive approach to identifying funding sources is highly valued. Interviewees note that Genome Atlantic collaborates adeptly with project teams to pinpoint initial funding opportunities. In cases where these do not materialize, Genome Atlantic resourcefully identifies alternative sources and works with the teams to reorient the project to align with new funding criteria. The organization also helps teams secure match funding and, where appropriate, assists in identifying and securing follow-on funding to ensure sustained progression of the applied genomics R&D initiatives.
Additionally, Genome Atlantic arranges for peer reviews by scientific experts to enhance proposal competitiveness and maximize the likelihood of proposals being funded. In addition to the value of the peer review for the project teams, the process orchestrated by Genome Atlantic garners significant appreciation from regional innovation funders, who typically perform only a generalist review of the proposed projects. Further to this, interviewees note that the more rigorous the peer review process, the better for all involved. The external evaluation conducted by the Genome Atlantic peer review affirms the scientific integrity of the proposed projects. It also provides a solid foundation for the decisions made by funders, mitigating the associated risks of funding larger-scale applied R&D projects and enabling the shift from funding incremental science towards funding transformative innovation.
Genome Atlantic’s proactive approach to identifying funding sources is highly valued.
Genome Atlantic Role in Managing Projects
Interviewees, particularly the principal investigators interviewed, highlight the crucial role that Genome Atlantic plays in the lifecycle of projects, offering comprehensive assistance that extends far beyond enabling access to funding. As a responsive and accessible organization, Genome Atlantic invests considerable time and resources to establish, organize, and support projects. They act as a linchpin for many projects, keeping project teams on course and alleviating the administrative load from principal investigators. Genome Atlantic support includes assisting project teams with managing deliverables, financial oversight, and navigating intricate reporting requirements.
Interviewees also cite Genome Atlantic’s proactive approach to team cohesion and conflict resolution as instrumental to steering projects clear of potential issues, assisting them in managing necessary changes in project scope to ensure project success. Despite their behind-the-scenes approach, which may leave them less known to some in Atlantic Canada, the impact of Genome Atlantic’s involvement is deeply felt and appreciated by those who work with them.
Genome Atlantic offers comprehensive assistance that extends far beyond enabling access to funding. From enhancing proposal competitiveness to supporting project teams throughout their collaboration, Genome Atlantic adds unique value to applied genomics R&D projects in Atlantic Canada.
CASE STUDIES
Dr. Rudolf Uher, the senior supervisor for the recently published study on genetic testing for neuroticism, with Dr. Alyson Zwicker
Genomic Solutions for Bipolar Disorder: Enhancing Health Through Early Detection and Strategic Treatment
Dr. Rudolf Uher, the senior supervisor for the recently published study on genetic testing for neuroticism, with Dr. Alyson Zwicker
Genomic Solutions for Bipolar Disorder: Enhancing Health Through Early Detection and Strategic Treatment
One in fifty Atlantic Canadians has bipolar disorder, a complex mental illness with strong genetic links. Genome Atlantic and a team of Dalhousie University mental health researchers led by Drs. Martin Alda and Rudolf Uher are leveraging genetic insights into bipolar disorder to improve patient outcomes, reduce economic burdens on the health care system, and pave the way to a brighter future for Atlantic Canadians affected by bipolar disorder.
The Evolution of the Salmon Farming Industry in Atlantic Canada Through Genomic Selection
A key pathway to the growth of a sustainable farmed salmon industry in Atlantic Canada is genomic selection. This advanced breeding technique uses comprehensive genetic information to bolster salmon health and growth, while making the industry more environmentally sustainable.
Atlantic Tree Improvement Council: Greater than the Sum of its Parts
Selective breeding has long been a valuable tree improvement tool for the forestry industry. Through conventional breeding, it takes 20-30 years to complete a cycle of selective breeding. Enter genomics, a game-changing suite of tools, methods and technologies that requires only five years to select the best traits. Recognizing the need for a coordinated approach to genomics research in tree improvement, Genome Atlantic helped to set up the Atlantic Tree Improvement Council (AtlanTIC).
Empowering Innovation: How GORP Funding Catalyzes Synthetic Biology Startups in Atlantic Canada
Genomic Atlantic, in partnership with the Verschuren Centre for Sustainability in Energy and the Environment, recently launched a new fund to help companies and researchers to address clean technology challenges and opportunities. Despite the program’s cap of $15,000 oer project, its impacts have been profound.
Report Background and Methodology
The Evidence Network
Founded in 2009, The Evidence Network is a Canadian-based, women-led consultancy and a pioneer in assessing the impact of innovation, business, and research support programs. At The Evidence Network, we firmly believe that evaluation is not just an assessment but a valuable opportunity for learning and improvement. With a track record spanning over 14 years, The Evidence Network has assessed more than 100 organizations and programs in Canada and worldwide, including four of the six Canadian Genome Centres. Our clientele includes federal and provincial governments, non-profit organizations, research institutions, health sciences institutes, universities, and innovation funding programs. To each assessment, we bring expertise in comprehensive data analysis, impact measurement, and strategic insights that drive practical improvements in our clients’ operations and outputs. What sets The Evidence Network apart is our ability to incorporate multiple dimensions into each assessment we undertake. We recognize the complexity of our clients’ work and strive to capture the full scope of their efforts. By considering various perspectives and facets of their programs, we provide a comprehensive and nuanced assessment that truly reflects the impact our clients make.
Impact Assessment Approach
The Evidence Network employs a dual approach in assessing the impact of organizations, combining theory-based and outcome-harvesting methodologies. The theory-based approach focuses on understanding the causal chain from intervention activities to desired outcomes, utilizing the judgement of attribution methodology developed by The Evidence Network. This approach, applied extensively in Canada and internationally, identifies impacts directly attributable to the evaluated organization’s support, effectively addressing issues of causality and the influence of multiple interventions. It encompasses traditional economic indicators as well as improvements in skills, knowledge, and networks as reported by clients and stakeholders. Outcome harvesting complements this by identifying unforeseen outcomes in complex environments where the direct effects of interventions are not immediately clear. The integration of these methodologies ensures a comprehensive and flexible assessment while being flexible in the scoping of what success for the organization under review has and can look like.
Impact Assessment of Genome Atlantic
The impact assessment of Genome Atlantic covered the 2018 to 2023 period. The assessment relied on:
- secondary data, collected through the project and post-project reports submitted to Genome
Atlantic by clients, as well as the financial data furnished by Genome Atlantic, and - primary data, collected through 29 one-on-one interviews with a diverse group of project team members and stakeholders from academia, industry, and the broader innovation ecosystem across Atlantic Canada.
Interviewees were drawn from 10 projects, which were selected by The Evidence Network from the full list of 60 projects that occurred during the 2018 to 2023 period and which span seven sectors across the four Atlantic provinces. The qualitative data gathered through the interview process ensured a fulsome understanding of the depth and breadth of Genome Atlantic’s efforts and impacts. The perspectives shared during the interviews were validated and augmented through an in-depth review of the literature relevant to each project. As a result, the assessment presents a holistic overview of Genome Atlantic’s impact over the 2018 to 2023 period.
Impact Assessment By:
The assessment was based on primary data from 29 one-on-one interviews with stakeholders and project team members from 10 of the 60 projects that occurred during the 2018 to 2023 period, and secondary data from Genome Atlantic for the same period.