Sask Polytech earns top 10 spot in multiple categories on Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges list
December 4, 2025 – Saskatchewan Polytechnic continues to lead the country in applied research projects and partnerships, earning top honours on Re$earch InfoSource Inc.’s latest Top 50 Research Colleges list. For the third consecutive year, Sask Polytech ranked first in Canada for completed research projects, with 669 projects finalized in 2023-24, a 39-per-cent increase over the previous year. Sask Polytech also secured first place for number of research partnerships, with 308 collaborations.
“Our success is determined by the success of our partners, and they keep coming back because they see value in the applied research we conduct,” says Dr. Ian McWilliams, Applied Research and Innovation associate vice-president. “Achieving first place for projects and partnerships on this national list is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire applied research team. A heartfelt thank you to our faculty and researchers, your commitment to industry, community and students is what makes this success possible.”
Sask Polytech earned Top 10 rankings in multiple categories, including fourth place for artificial intelligence research partnerships. As Saskatchewan’s pioneering Technology Access Centre, Sask Polytech’s Digital Integration Centre of Excellence (DICE) is applying AI to real-world challenges in mining, agriculture and construction industries.
“By partnering with entrepreneurs and organizations, Sask Polytech empowers those without in-house R&D or specialized technical expertise to access the expertise, talent and resources needed to bring their ideas and solutions to life,” says Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO. “This collaborative effort helps transform innovative concepts into practical solutions, addressing various challenges and driving progress. Congratulations to our researchers and students on their well-deserved national recognition. We remain committed to the benefits of applied research, further amplifying the exceptional value we bring to our stakeholders, communities and industry partners.”
The Office of Applied Research and Innovation at Sask Polytech is fuelled by a dynamic team of more than 170 research experts dedicated to creating practical solutions to real-world problems and bringing innovative ideas to market. This hands-on approach supports business growth, gives students valuable work experience and equips graduates with the skills needed for successful careers.
A key advantage of partnering with Sask Polytech is that all applied research partners retain ownership of their intellectual property, a model that accelerates commercialization and encourages companies to reinvest and scale in Canada.
Some notable applied research projects from 2023-24 include:
- DICE and Metric Design joined forces in an exciting collaboration to transform the interior design industry. This homegrown AI project seeks to create cutting-edge software utilizing digital twin and generative AI technology, revolutionizing how interior design work is approached and executed.
- DICE and Peter Lucas Project Management developed an artificial intelligence-based tool to help identify high-probability locations of gravel deposits across the province, a breakthrough that could save millions in infrastructure costs.
- Sask Polytech partnered with Prince Albert Model Forest and Filipino non-profit Daluhay to digitize data and create management tools that support community-based, sustainable resource management.
- What began as a clinical approach to delivering counselling in rural and remote communities through a virtual reality headset has since evolved into an Indigenous youth-led, culturally grounded wellness movement. VICCIY, also known as Virtual Interventions and Community Connections for Indigenous Youth, was launched five years ago and continues to deliver mental health support for Indigenous youth.
Sask Polytech Re$earch InfoSource rankings at a glance:
| Area | Rank | Value |
| Completed research projects | 1 | 669 projects |
| Research partnerships | 1 | 308 partnerships |
| Artificial intelligence research partnerships | 4 | 14 projects |
| College research income | 7 | $6.3M |
| Paid student researchers | 8 | 126 students |
Sask Polytech is a trusted applied research partner to industry across a wide range of sectors. Using technology and innovation, we help capture opportunities that contribute to economic growth while solving today’s challenges. As a member of the NATO Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) test centre network, Sask Polytech supports Canadian companies in enhancing productivity and national security.
To learn more visit saskpolytech.ca/research.
Saskatchewan Polytechnic is signatory to the SDG Accord. Sustainable Development Goal alignment is one of the ways Sask Polytech is leading the rise of polytechnic education.
