Question 1

How is ICI different from other policy institutions/think tanks?

Accepted Answer

ICI is different from most other policy institutions/think tanks because it takes a holistic context-dependent approach to assessing specific public policy issues being examined. We develop, follow, and disseminate structured tools and frameworks to capture economic, social, environmental, geopolitical and technology risks, explore linkages among these risks, assess their likely direct and indirect impacts on Canadians, and identify response opportunities. Our work is informed by both domestic and global factors and how these intersect to create risks and opportunities for Canada.

Question 2

What services will ICI offer to external clients?

Accepted Answer

Our current offerings include:
1. Advisory Services: We support businesses, social enterprises, and academic institutions in developing effective strategies, crafting content, and planning outreach to engage with the federal government. While we do not lobby, we help sharpen your internal strategies for greater policy and program alignment.
2. Research & Strategic Planning: Our team provides landscape analyses, strategic planning, and applied research at the intersection of science, technology, innovation, and policy—helping your organization navigate complexity and meet its goals.
3. Training & Education: Through customized workshops, symposiums, or seminars we build capacity among academics, businesses, and social innovators. Topics include federal structures, budget processes, government priorities, and strategies for policy engagement and influence.

Question 3

What expectations will I except if I become a member?

Accepted Answer

If I become an ICI member, I will be expected to make best efforts (recognizing we all have other obligations) to:
 • Participate in monthly meetings to contribute information and insights to issues being discussed.
 • Participate, on a voluntary basis, with other members in the production of articles, commentary, and reports.
 • Participate, on a voluntary basis, in providing review (peer review) of any other Member's proposed articles, commentary, or reports.
 • Participate, on a voluntary basis, in contributing to external seminars, workshops, and courses to inform specific audiences.
 • Participate in periodic internal discussions of emerging public policy issies brought forward by other members.

Question 4

Can I get paid for work on any contract I want to participate in?

Accepted Answer

ICI Members can receive compensation for participating in any paid ICI contracts with select public, academic, or private sector clients.

Welcome to the Institute for Collaborative Innovation (ICI Canada)

Our mission is to strengthen Canada's capacity to tackle complex societal challenges and respond to global risks, by enabling mission-oriented innovations that align science, technology, policy, and business activities with unmet citizen needs.

2025: A YEAR
TO REMEMBER

RECENT POSTS

Innovation for a public purpose

U.S. Science Under Siege: Implications for Canada

Recruiting: Canadian Risk Outlook Youth Working Group

Brief: Co-Creating Canada's Future

ANNOUNCEMENTS

UPCOMING EVENTS

David Watters joined by Shannon Storey (President & COO of Global Advantage Consulting) presented a critical analysis of Federal Budget 2025 at CSPC 2025.

Webinar | Seizing the Moment: What Budget 2025 Means for Community Organizations

Co-Creating Canada's Future: Youth Perspectives on Canada's Several Missions

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