Strategic relationships

Research Impact Canada

Research Impact Canada (RIC) is a member-driven network designed to maximize the impact of research for the public good. This pan-Canadian network is dedicated to building institutional capacity for knowledge mobilization and research impact. AU has been a member of RIC since 2021.

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Community Campus Engage Canada

Community Campus Engage Canada (CCECanada) is a national network that fosters meaningful collaboration between academic institutions and community organizations to advance research, learning, and creative partnerships. Through this network, we strengthen community-driven initiatives, share best practices, and advocate for engagement that enriches education and drives social impact across sectors and disciplines.

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Alliance of Canadian Comprehensive Research Universities (ACCRU)

The Alliance of Canadian Comprehensive Research Universities (ACCRU) is a collaborative network that champions research excellence at small and medium-sized comprehensive universities across Canada. Through advocacy and shared strategies, ACCRU works to build an inclusive research ecosystem where the contributions of these institutions are recognized, supported, and leveraged for societal benefit.

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ELIXR Simulations

ELIXR Simulations is a non-profit initiative dedicated to transforming education through immersive technologies like virtual and augmented reality. As a founding member, Athabasca University joins other partners to build Alberta’s XR ecosystem, fostering collaboration, innovation, and hands-on opportunities that position the province as a global leader in immersive learning.

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PolicyWise for Children and Families

PolicyWise envisions a world where children, youth, and families flourish in safe, supportive environments shaped by informed decisions. Together, we work to advance effective social policy and practice by bridging research and policy to clarify challenges, seize opportunities, and deliver high-quality evidence that drives meaningful change.

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Canadian Innovation Space

Canadian Innovation Space, powered by the Rideau Hall Foundation, unites diverse organizations to strengthen Canada’s culture of innovation. As a partner, AU has participated in its flagship initiative, Canadian Innovation Week, a national celebration that connects innovators and thought leaders, inspiring Canadians to share ideas, technologies, and discoveries across the country.

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The Wood Buffalo Regional Innovation Network

The Wood Buffalo Regional Innovation Network (WBRIN) connects organizations and initiatives that strengthen entrepreneurship and innovation across the region. Its purpose is to spark frontline innovation, attract talent and technology, and inspire new generations of entrepreneurs.

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The Edmonton Regional Innovation Network

The Edmonton Regional Innovation Network (ERIN) is a collaborative coalition that helps startups and innovation-driven businesses in the Edmonton region grow and succeed. As part of the Post-Secondary Institutions (PSI) Sub-Committee, Athabasca University works with six other partner institutions - MacEwan University, The King’s University, the University of Alberta, NAIT, NorQuest College, and Concordia University of Edmonton - to foster collaboration, share resources, and support entrepreneurs and venture development within an inclusive, accessible innovation ecosystem.

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One Child Every Child

The One Child Every Child Initiative is driving national progress in child health and wellness, backed by a $125-million Canada First Research Excellence Fund grant and partnerships with maternal and child health researchers, clinical leaders and research institutes.

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Health Everywhere Hub

The Health Everywhere Hub (HEH), funded by Alberta’s Major Innovation Fund, was created to tackle systemic barriers in digital health and build a more connected, collaborative innovation ecosystem. By empowering innovators to design, test, and scale solutions, HEH aims to position Alberta-made technologies for local adoption and global impact, driving economic and technological growth through a vibrant digital health network.

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The Association of Commonwealth Universities

The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) works to strengthen higher education across the Commonwealth by fostering collaboration, sustainability, and equity. Guided by its vision of a connected global academic community, ACU champions innovation, inclusion, and excellence to help universities tackle complex challenges and advance sustainable development.