Wood Buffalo Regional Innovation Network

The WBRIN supports initiatives, programs, services and events that strengthen the entrepreneurial and innovation community in the Wood Buffalo region.
Our purpose is to increase and capture innovation on the front lines, attract technologies and talent to our community, and inspire a whole new generation of entrepreneurs across Fort McMurray and the entire Wood Buffalo region.

The WBRIN is not an organization; it is a network. The organizing body is made up of six organizations, who occupy the roles of co-chairs and a steering committee. The organisations include Wood Buffalo Economic Development Corporation (WBEDC), Keyano College, Alberta Innovates, Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association (NAABA), Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce, and Community Futures.

Entrepreneurs and innovators are encouraged to be active participants in the network, attending events and programs, and helping us identify ongoing gaps in the ecosystem. There are two front-line local resources available to technology and knowledge-based innovators and entrepreneurs: the WBRIN Program Manager and our Technology Development Advisor (TDA).

The Program Manager is the first point of contact for technology and knowledge-based innovators and entrepreneurs. The Program Manager helps manage the day-to-day communication between the different members of the network, as well as organize events and coordinate programs. The Program Manager is based in the region, and is available to provide one-on-one advice on how to navigate the broader ecosystem and address specific business challenges.

Supporting Entrepreneurs in Our Community

The WBRIN’s purpose is to support technology and knowledge-based innovators and entrepreneurs by:

• Identifying gaps in the ecosystem and finding solutions to address those gaps
• Hosting and supporting programs, services and events in the region
• Connecting entrepreneurs to programs, services and events around the province
• Connecting businesses to a regional Technology Development Advisor, who provides one-on-one support and advice to entrepreneurs