ARCHIVED - Government of Canada supports innovative research and development in Nova Scotia firm A.C. Dispensing Equipment Inc.

Mr. Scott Armstrong also recognizes A.C. Dispensing Equipment Inc. as a Canadian Innovation Leader

June 04, 2010 —

Mr. Scott Armstrong, Member of Parliament for Cumberland-Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley, on behalf of the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology), today announced a contribution of $529,200 to A.C. Dispensing Equipment Inc. from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP). The funding supports two initiatives.

A. C. Dispensing will receive a $283,524 contribution towards the first project.  This funding will assist A.C. Dispensing in developing a "first to market" dispensing solution targeted to deliver multiple portions of various varieties in precise portions and in an efficient manner. The project will reduce both the labour and operator time required to make a variety of beverages. This unique dispensing solution will utilize the newest technology including Ethernet capabilities to offer remote diagnostic and central monitoring of its performance metrics. 

A $245,676 contribution for the second project will support the company in developing the next generation of multi-functional dispensing technologies to improve accuracy and speed of service while expanding the available consumer selections, and improving food safety practices.

"Our government is investing in science and technology to create jobs, strengthen the economy and improve Canadians' quality of life," said Mr. Armstrong. "This government is supporting Canadian firms that successfully develop and apply innovative technologies. Canada's Economic Action Plan is supporting scientific research and commercialization, while creating good jobs and economic growth." 

Canada's Economic Action Plan provided new resources of $200 million to NRC-IRAP over two years to support innovative Canadian firms. To learn more, visit Canada's Economic Action Plan website. 

During the event, Mr. Armstrong also presented a Canadian Innovation Leader Certificate to A.C. Dispensing Equipment to highlight its success as an innovative Canadian firm that has successfully linked scientific research to commercialization, jobs and economic growth. 

A.C. Dispensing Equipment provides specialized dispensing equipment to the North American quick-serve restaurant industry. Its products are primarily used to customize non-carbonated beverages by adding dairy, sweeteners, concentrated flavours and whipped toppings. Recognized as an industry leader, the company's technology provides accurate, safe and efficient portions of food items to the food and beverage (F&B) industry. Restaurant chain operators benefit from consistent consumer products, improved sanitation practices and increased speed of service through the company's automated process. 

"NRC- IRAP and its approach to funding of R&D, is consistent with SureShot's approach to New Product Development.  Taking the time to properly plan for our projects, evaluating alternatives and then allocating what are usually scarce resources," said Michael Duck, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of A.C. Dispensing. "All the resources, including funding, are in place before the project is started, and when it is underway, the project is properly monitored.  This all maximizes the probability of successful innovation. We are very pleased with the responsiveness, support and guidance provided through our relationship with NRC- IRAP." 

About NRC and NRC-IRAP 

The NRC Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP) provides a range of both technical and business-oriented advisory services along with necessary financial support to qualified innovative Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises. 

The program is delivered by a field staff of 240 professionals in more than 100 communities across Canada. NRC-IRAP is committed to working with small- and medium-sized enterprises while they realize their full potential, turning knowledge and innovation into strategic opportunities, jobs and prosperity for all Canadians. 

The Government of Canada's Budget 2009 Economic Action Plan provided new resources of $200 million to NRC-IRAP over the two years, to support innovative Canadian firms.

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Enquiries: Media relations
National Research Council of Canada
613-991-1431
media@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca