Innovative Projects Realized

L2M – PFAS Free Moisture Barrier Layer for Firefighting and Related PPE

We are seeking to bring to market a new moisture barrier layer for firefighting and other protective gear. Currently used PFAS based moisture barriers dominate the market but are responsible for causing both cancer and microplastic water contamination. Efforts to find effective alternatives are hampered by the need for replacement products to meet high performance standards. In this project, we will partner with the Lab2Market program in order to investigate the best path towards commercialization of this new technology to bring the maximum benefit to Canadian first responders and Canadian manufacturing. Partnership with Lab2Market will help us to craft go-to-market strategies and plan our commercialization and scale-up process in order to establish manufacturing for our product, create product designs, identify viable adjacent markets and cultivate business partnerships with downstream manufacturers, coinciding with the partner organization’s goals to promote the impact of Canadian technological development on the economy.

L2M Validation / Qc Automne 2025 / NodusAI

Les gouvernements, hôpitaux et banques détiennent d’immenses volumes de données précieuses, mais les lois strictes sur la confidentialité et les risques de sécurité rendent toute collaboration presque impossible, freinant l’innovation et limitant la performance des modèles d’IA. De ce fait, les hôpitaux ne peuvent pas bénéficier de modèles de diagnostic partagés et entrainés par plusieurs institutions. Les banques ne peuvent pas détecter les nouveaux schémas de fraude observés par d’autres institutions. Le développement de l’IA est fragmenté, les données restent cloisonnées et les performances des modèles en pâtissent. Notre plateforme, basée sur l’apprentissage fédéré, permet aux institutions d’entraîner ensemble des modèles d’IA sans jamais déplacer ni exposer leurs données sensibles. Contrairement aux solutions traditionnelles qui centralisent les données et augmentent les risques de conformité, nous amenons le modèle vers les données grâce à des techniques avancées de protection de la vie privée. Cela permet aux secteurs de la santé et de la finance d’améliorer la précision de leurs modèles, de réduire les biais, d’innover plus rapidement, de rester conformes aux réglementations comme le RGPD ou la HIPAA, tout en gardant un contrôle total sur leurs données, libérant ainsi la puissance de la collaboration sans compromis sur la sécurité ou la confidentialité.

L2M – ITASpheres

Periodontitis, or advanced gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects roughly 1 in 3 North Americans. In severe cases, periodontitis leads to tooth and bone loss, but it’s also been linked to a range of serious health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory illness, autoimmune disease, and even Alzheimer’s. Despite its prevalence and long-term health impact, current treatments focus on managing symptoms with cleaning, antibiotics, or surgery, rather than addressing the underlying inflammation that drives the disease. This project aims to support the development of a new biomimetic therapy that targets the root cause of periodontitis: chronic inflammation in the gum tissue. We will evaluate how this innovation could be integrated into dental care, helping to shift treatment away from invasive procedures toward targeted, locally-acting solutions that work with intrinsic healing mechanisms.

L2M Validation / Qc Automne 2025 / Polarys Data (projection pour le nom de l’entreprise)

Polarys Data est un projet qui vise à aider les gouvernements à mieux utiliser les données publiques pour prendre des décisions plus efficaces. Actuellement, ces données sont souvent dispersées, difficiles à consulter et à comprendre, ce qui ralentit les processus et augmente les coûts. Polarys propose de rassembler automatiquement ces données dans une plateforme intelligente capable de simuler l’impact de différentes politiques publiques, telles qu’un programme d’aide ou une réforme fiscale.
Grâce à cette plateforme, les responsables publics pourront visualiser en quelques secondes les effets possibles de leurs décisions à l’échelle d’un quartier, d’une province ou du pays. Les résultats seront présentés de façon claire et accessible pour faciliter la compréhension et améliorer la transparence.
Ce projet permettra de tester cette solution avec des institutions publiques afin de s’assurer qu’elle répond effectivement à leurs besoins. Il s’agit d’une innovation développée au Canada qui pourrait renforcer l’efficacité des services publics, éviter les erreurs coûteuses et améliorer la prise de décisions au bénéfice de tous les citoyens.

Développement d’un data acquisition model pour visualiser l’intersectionalité au sein du leadership scolaire

La problématique de la sous-représentation des femmes dans le leadership scolaire est un phénomène réel en Amérique du Nord. L’absence des données probantes sur le parcours et l’expérience des enseignants complique la mise en oeuvre de politiques concrètes pouvant favoriser un avancement professionnel équitable pour les femmes et les autres personnes appartenant aux groupes visés par l’équité en matière d’emploi. Le projet proposé vise à développer un modèle d’acquisition des données pour collecter systématiquement et visualiser la composition en termes de diversité des personnes qui sont promues aux postes de leadership. L’outil créé favorisera des prises de décision efficaces et soutiendra les diverses parties prenantes, telles qu’Alberta Education, les associations professionnelles (ATA et CASS), ainsi que les divisions scolaires dans leurs efforts d’inclusion sociale.

Système intelligent de veille touristique pour Destination Québec cité

Destination Québec cité (DQc) est l’association touristique régionale (ATR) de la région de Québec et le service responsable de la promotion touristique pour la Ville de Québec. Elle regroupe plus de 850 membres – hébergeurs, restaurateurs, attraits, événements – sur un vaste territoire incluant Québec, Wendake et les MRC avoisinantes. DQc anime l’essor économique du secteur grâce à ses activités de marketing, d’intelligence d’affaires, d’accueil et d’information.
Face à un volume croissant d’informations non structurées (articles, publications sociales, descriptions d’événements), DQc fait face à un défi majeur : la centralisation et l’analyse efficace des données sectorielles pour prendre des décisions éclairées. Ce projet vise à concevoir un système intelligent de veille touristique, exploitant l’intelligence artificielle pour collecter, structurer et résumer ces informations, et ainsi fournir des insights stratégiques en temps quasi réel.
Les bénéfices attendus incluent une meilleure anticipation des tendances, une communication plus pertinente avec les membres et partenaires, et une optimisation des retombées économiques en ajustant rapidement les actions marketing et les décisions stratégiques. Le projet contribuera également à renforcer la compétitivité et l’attractivité de la région de Québec sur le marché touristique national et international.

L2M – Ultracoustics Development Project

Ultracoustics Technologies Ltd. is developing ultrasensitive optical microphones to detect high-frequency sounds (20 kHz–2 MHz) for industrial applications like non-destructive testing (NDT) and leak detection. While the technology is proven, the company lacks market-ready products and a clear commercialization path. This Mitacs Business Strategy Internship project will bridge that gap by: (1) finalizing a certified Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and deploying it in pilot trials to gather performance data and user feedback; (2) identifying and targeting the most viable niche market (e.g., aerospace or energy infrastructure) through rigorous analysis and outreach; and (3) creating investor-ready materials and a long-term strategic roadmap. The intern will leverage the Lab2Market (L2M) Launch program’s mentorship and resources to execute these objectives.

The project will transform a lab prototype into a market-validated product, accelerating its path to revenue. Pilot trials will demonstrate real-world value to customers, while the targeted market strategy will secure early adopters. The deliverables—including a refined MVP, business plan, and investor pitch—will position Ultracoustics for fundraising, scalable manufacturing, and entry into North American/EU markets, directly boosting commercial viability and competitive advantage.

L2M-Validation of solid lubricant coatings for industry applications

The proposed Lab2Market internship program will support the intern, who is currently working with AraMill, in strengthening their understanding of validation processes vital for the commercialization of innovative lubrication solutions. The organization specializes in developing advanced, sustainable metallic solid lubricant coatings for machining tools, which significantly reduce friction and eliminate the need for traditional liquid lubricants. Currently, the organization’s primary focus is to validate the effectiveness and industrial applicability of these coatings. Traditional lubricants are often environmentally impactful, costly, and less effective under challenging machining conditions. Through rigorous field validation, the organization aims to demonstrate that metallic coatings can reliably enhance productivity and sustainability in real-world manufacturing environments. This internship offers a unique educational opportunity for the intern to actively engage in validation activities, gain firsthand insights from industry experts, and develop a deeper understanding of industry-specific testing and performance evaluation techniques. Through active learning and mentorship, the intern will acquire practical skills and knowledge that will prepare them to contribute meaningfully to the adoption of innovative coatings in industrial settings. With their background in manufacturing engineering, surface coatings, and tribology, they will be empowered to enhance their expertise and support the advancement of sustainable, cost-effective machining solutions.

L2M — Development and Validation of a Novel Pain-Conscious Tool for IUD and Endometrial Biopsy Procedures

This project supports the development of an innovative device that makes IUD insertions and endometrial biopsies less painful and more accurate. By replacing outdated tools with one integrated system, it improves patient comfort and clinical efficiency. The project will provide ReFem Technologies with real-world feedback, regulatory insights, and a clear path to market, accelerating the device’s commercialization.

L2M- A Strategic Commercialization Pathway for Electrochemical Antifouling Membranes

This project will support the commercialization of a new electrochemical membrane (ECM) technology that actively prevents fouling in wastewater treatment systems, offering a sustainable, low-maintenance alternative to conventional membranes. Through structured market research, stakeholder engagement, and techno-economic analysis, the project will identify high-potential market segments and build a clear commercialization roadmap. The partner organization will benefit from a de-risked, evidence-based strategy to bring this innovation to market, opening new business opportunities and strengthening their position in the cleantech sector. At the same time, the project will provide the intern with hands-on experience in market-driven innovation, helping bridge the gap between academic research and real-world application. This aligns with the goals of the L2M Validate program by equipping emerging researchers with the practical skills, industry exposure, and entrepreneurial mindset needed to drive future commercialization efforts—whether in industry or academia.

L2M – Antioxidant-rich Functional Fiber Developed from Co-products of Cereals and Legumes

Antioxidant dietary fiber is an emerging concept that combines the health benefits of dietary fiber and natural polyphenolic antioxidants into a single functional ingredient. Dietary fiber supports gut and heart health, blood sugar regulation, weight management, and digestive well-being. Phenolic compounds, commonly found in colorful fruits and vegetables, help protect the body from oxidative damage that can lead to serious diseases such as cancer and heart disease. In addition, there is a growing demand for natural alternatives to synthetic food additives. While antioxidant-rich dietary fiber from fruits and vegetables has been widely studied, less attention has been paid to similar compounds found in cereal and legume by-products, such as wheat and oat bran, as well as faba bean and lentil hulls. These by-products are generated in large quantities by the food industry and are often discarded or used as low-value animal feed, contributing to environmental waste and greenhouse gas emissions. These agricultural residues are rich in both dietary fiber and antioxidant compounds, but 35-65% of the polyphenols are bound within the fiber and cannot be used by the body. This project aims to transform these underutilized by-products into high-value, health-promoting ingredients. By applying special heat-based and non-heat-based processing methods, we will release these polyphenolic antioxidants and improve the way dietary fiber works in our body. This approach offers a dual benefit of improving the health effects of both antioxidants and dietary fiber. The result is a novel natural ingredient that can serve as functional food ingredients, supplements, and even pet food, supporting better health in people and animals alike. By upcycling these by-products, we aim to build a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable food system for everyone.

Green Strategies for the Urban Design and Development of a Public Square for The City of Kitchener’s Intermodal Transit Hub

The research project will use a case study approach at the proposed Transit Hub for the City of Kitchener. In its objectives, the research will focus on the opportunities for a high quality green public space/square to better integrate a new LRT line and a new GO/VIA rail station into the surrounding city. It will look at how to create a healthy people oriented public environment that will also transfer people from one mode of transit to another. With the surrounding new mixed use developments and heritage architecture of Kitchener’s industrial past, the case study is typical of the situation facing most urban centres undertaking transit expansion in Ontario. Masri O Architects will benefit from the research undertaken in the Mitacs partnership by acquiring a better understanding of the potential of new ideas in green urbanism and sustainable materials strategies which they will then be able to incorporate into their architectural and urban design in the future.