Some of the University of Guelph’s most innovative research technologies were profiled to industry and investors at this year’s Gryphon’s LAAIR showcase.

Technologies that have moved to market with the help of the Gryphon’s LAAIR include a High Immune Response genetic selection tool for dairy cattle (now also being considered for beef cattle), new lines of Ontario quinoa, rapid fruit tree propagation techniques, and novel local strains of brewers’ yeasts.

This year’s showcase was held June 10.

Gryphon’s LAAIR was created to help U of G researchers with potentially marketable technologies bridge the gap between research and product development.

Physics professor John Dutcher, who received LAAIR funding to commercialize nanoparticles made from Ontario sweet corn, said:

“The Gryphon’s LAAIR provided us with timely funding that helped us introduce our technology to the marketplace, to connect with customers and to achieve our first sales.”

The University’s Catalyst Centre oversees the program and provides advice such as how to scale-up products, provide more testing data and apply for patent protection.

Gryphon’s LAAIR took its name from the popular TV series Dragon’s Den, where participants compete for funding by pitching their ideas to a panel of judges. Gryphon’s LAAIR used a similar selection process, with agri-food business leaders serving as judges.

“Investment in the Gryphon’s LAAIR program has yielded exceptional returns,” says Rich Moccia, associate vice-president, research (strategic partnerships).  “Participating researchers have not only produced world-class innovations, they have honed business skills that will aid in the transfer of technology to the benefit of society for years to come.”

Gryphon’s LAAIR was funded by the OMAFRA – U of G partnership and Growing Forward 2, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.

A complete list of Gryphon’s LAAIR projects is available online.