The Research & Development Corporation (RDC), the Crown corporation for improving research and development in Newfoundland and Labrador, is launching a call for proposals in support of increased petroleum research and development in the province. The directed research call is open to proposals submitted between June 10, 2010 and May 31, 2011.

The petroleum industry is a key economic driver in the Newfoundland and Labrador economy and, over the next decade, R&D expenditures in the petroleum industry are expected to act as a catalyst for growth that will maximize the potential for petroleum resource development.

Directed research is an internationally-recognized program framework for accelerating research and development in priority areas, involves a long-term commitment of funds, and is administered through a call for proposals.

"The RDC's role is to work with industry and other stakeholders to enhance the long-term benefits of R&D in support of petroleum exploration, development and operations," said Glenn Janes, Chief Executive Officer of the Research & Development Corporation. "One of our priorities is to leverage investments to build long-term, sustainable, R&D capabilities within the province."

Eligible applicants include oil and gas suppliers and operators, as well as marine transport and ocean technology companies addressing needs in the petroleum industry. Companies must have more than five employees and must either be located in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador or planning to locate in the province as a result of the project.

Where applicable, project proponents are encouraged to work in collaboration with other local, national and international companies, end users and/or institutional researchers and research facilities. The project proponent must own or have the right to use the intellectual property required to complete the project. Proponents must also have the management, technical and financial resources required to execute the project.

The RDC anticipates an annual budget envelope of up to $10 million to commit to directed research projects. The RDC will consider investments of up to $5 million per project, subject to specific terms and conditions. Multi-year projects of up to five years are eligible. R&D projects requiring less than $250,000 in funding should apply to the RDC's Proof of Concept program.

A complete information package about the directed research program is available on the RDC's website at www.researchnl.com.  Inquiries about the program can be directed to dougtrask@researchnl.com.

The Research & Development Corporation is a provincial Crown corporation responsible for improving Newfoundland and Labrador's R&D performance. The RDC works with R&D stakeholders including industry, academia and government agencies and departments. For more information about the RDC, go to www.researchnl.com.

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