Something special is brewing at Niagara College this December.

On Friday, Dec. 5, Project Brew will return to the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, offering the public a chance to tap into the future of the craft beer industry. The student led beer festival serves as the ultimate final exam for the soon-to-be graduates of NC’s trailblazing Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program. It’s a rite of passage where students apply 16 months of intensive, hands-on learning to draft their own unique recipes, managing the process from grain to glass.

Guests will have the golden opportunity to sample 15 unique, student-crafted beers and vote for their favourite, helping to select the winner of the coveted People’s Choice Award.

“Project Brew encompasses all that is great about learning at NC. This culminating semester for students in the program not only results in a signature beer, all of the final project beers get showcased and publicly celebrated at this remarkable craft beer festival,” said Maija Saari, Associate Dean, School of Wine, Beer and Spirits. “What better way to celebrate the end of an intensive 16 months than being surrounded by family, friends, faculty, staff, alumni and craft beer enthusiasts – all there to cheer you on!”

Brewing up unique creations

Brewmaster students have crafted a diverse lineup of beers for the event, showcasing the thirst for innovation fostered by the program, which launched as the first of its kind in Canada in fall 2010.

Ken Mann, class lead for the event, plans to tap into a new career. The St. Catharines resident pivoted from broadcasting to brewing when he enrolled in the program after 25 years as a radio reporter.

“I remember coming to campus to cover the opening of the Teaching Brewery, and the program interested me,” he said. “I like the creativity and artistry of brewing. Every beer you make is a little different depending on which malt you use and which hops you use, you get different colours and flavours and tastes and I just find that fascinating.”

Inspired by the season, Mann brewed a Porter (4.5% ABV) named “Around the Campfire” for his Project Brew, crafted to be the perfect sipper for chillier temperatures. He values the chance to showcase the technical skills he has fermented over the last year at the on-campus festival.

“I think it’s a really good opportunity for everyone to demonstrate what they’ve learned and what interests them. We’ve seen our beers through brew day, fermentation and bottling and they’re all different – in some cases, very different,” he said.

“To me, seeing how people respond to the beer is always the most rewarding part.”

A toast to innovation

Classmate Jorja Hanes is stirring up excitement with a strong Belgian-style beer titled “Monk Overboard.”

“I used dried fruit, a hint of banana, and added the special ingredient of rum-soaked wood chips to it, so it will have a bit of warmth for the winter season,” said Hanes.

Originally from Bracebridge, Hanes was drawn to the program’s scientific rigour and experiential nature. She is eager to have her family make the trip to Niagara to taste what she has accomplished.

“I’ve loved this program. It’s so fun and meeting so many great people in this industry,” she said. “I feel just more confident now that I can apply what I’ve learned.

“When people come together to enjoy my product and what my class created, that makes me happy as well.”

Meanwhile, Kyle Stone blended his passion for two worlds – wine and beer – into his final project. Using Riesling grape juice donated from Reif Estate Winery where he currently works, he added IPA elements to create “Hop and Reif,” a hoppy carbonated beer that drinks like a champagne.

“I’ve never had a beer like this, and it was fun to create. There were a lot of ups and downs through the process, but I like how it turned out,” said Stone. “Now I’m kind of anxious for people to try it. I look forward to serving my beer.”

Originally from Huntsville, Stone plans to continue his education after graduating from the Brewmaster program.

“I plan to take winemaking after this, and then maybe distilling, and become a ‘triple threat,’ so I can make everything,” he said.

Event details

Project Brew takes place on Dec. 5, 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at NC’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake; outdoors (weather permitting).

Tickets are $35 plus tax, which includes a commemorative glass and five beer tokens. Group pricing (6+) is available at $30 plus tax per person. Additional tokens are available for $3. Tickets may be purchased while supplies last via Eventbrite here and will be available at the entrance if capacity permits.

Project Brews in the lineup for the event include: Around the Campfire (Porter, 4.5% ABV, Crystal Memoirs (Loganberry Berliner, 5%), Happy Beer (Maple Mocha Gold Stout, 7%),Monk Overboard (Belgian Strong Ale, 10%), Harry Chili Porter (Porter, 4.9%), Dunkel-Stein (Dunkel Weiss, 5%), Hop and Reif (Brut IPA with Riesling, 8.8%), Wish-Key (Roggenbier, 6.2%), Terry’s Chocolate Porter (Porter 5%), Frosted Cranberry (Pale Ale, 5.6%), Slam Dunkel (Munich Dunkel, 5%), Jolly Gingerbread Stout (White Stout, 5.7%), Big League Brew (Bubblegum Wheat Beer, 4.7%), Cryo Punch IPA (IPA, 7%), Winter Remedy (Amber Ale, 7.5%), and Sticky Fingers (Dessert Barleywien, 7.9%).

Benchmark staff will also be on site with food available for purchase including chili fries, NC-made bratwurst, Cobb’s pretzel buns (cabbage, mustard, currywurst, crisp onions), Chicken Milanese Sammy (pepperoni vodka sauce, pesto, burrata), warm apple cider, and whiskey pecan sticky buns.

Take it home

Cans of the latest Project Brew beers will be available for purchase following the event (while supplies last) at the Wine Visitor + Education Centre.

Beer 101 Strong continues legacy of excellence

Project Brew attendees will be sipping products from a program with a proven track record. The event arrives on the heels of the NC Teaching Brewery’s latest accolade: a bronze medal (Strong Ale category) for Beer 101 Strong at the 2025 Canada Beer Cup, held in Quebec on Nov. 10.

This marks the 58th medal for the Teaching Brewery since launching as Canada’s first in 2011. Beer 101 Strong has been the Teaching Brewery’s most decorated label, boasting 20 medals (five golds, seven silvers, and eight bronzes).

In addition to developing their own recipes and producing them for projects like Project Brew, Brewmaster students brew different beer styles for the Teaching Brewery’s Beer 101 series. Brewmaster Professor Jon Downing noted that because the beer is brewed by different cohorts of students, the consistent award wins speak volumes about the quality of education.

“The awards show that our students are not only learning but mastering the skills taught in the Teaching Brewery,” said Downing.

Beer 101 Strong and other student-crafted products are available at the NC Wine Visitor and Education Centre (135 Taylor Rd., Niagara-on-the-Lake) and online at ncteachingwinery.ca.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Ranked as the No.1 research college in Canada, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

 
Media inquiries, please contact:

Julie Greco
Communications Consultant
905-328-2532
[email protected]
 
 

The post Brewmaster students pour passion and innovation into Project Brew appeared first on Niagara College.

Downtown location offers free Academic Upgrading for adults
 
Niagara College is bringing its proven expertise in academic upgrading to the heart of the Hamilton community, opening crucial new pathways for local residents.

On Nov. 24, representatives from the College celebrated the grand opening of its new Academic Upgrading – Hamilton Campus with a ribbon cutting event. The new site, located at 225 King William St. (Suite 204), offers local residents aged 18 and older the chance to complete their high school equivalency (ACE), upgrade essential skills or complete specific courses – such as English, Mathematics, Science or Computer Software Applications — to prepare for postsecondary or apprenticeships free of charge.

“At Niagara College, we know that accessibility to vital educational pathways transforms lives, and we are proud to bring our student-focused and welcoming approach to Hamilton,” said Niagara College President Sean Kennedy. “This new academic upgrading site underscores our College’s commitment to partnering with the community and driving inclusive economic growth across the region.”

While NC successfully runs Academic Upgrading at its campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake, this additional location was made possible by over $757,000 in funding from the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development, intended to fill a service gap created when a similar program offered by another postsecondary provider closed earlier this year.

Organized by NC’s School of Academic and Liberal Studies and Workforce Development and Community Partnerships, the grand opening drew key community partners from employment and social service agencies, school boards, government funders, and NC faculty and staff.

“This new location reinforces our dedication to accessible, inclusive education, responds to the region’s growing demand, and builds on our history of helping learners successfully transition into postsecondary studies,” said Dean of NC’s Academic and Liberal Studies division David Atherton. “We’re excited to collaborate with our community partners in Hamilton and welcome even more students into the Niagara College family.”

“Expanding Academic Upgrading into Hamilton reflects our deep belief that education should meet learners where they are,” said Rebecca Nicholls, Associate Dean, School of Academic and Liberal Studies at Niagara College. “We know that adult learners bring resilience, ambition, and diverse experiences, and we are committed to providing the support and flexibility they need to take their next steps with confidenc

“This new site allows us to work even more closely with community partners and ensure Hamilton residents have clear, accessible pathways into postsecondary education, apprenticeships, and meaningful employment.”

Sara Gill, Executive Director, Adult Basic Education Association, an adult learning network in Hamilton, was among community partners who applauded the news.

“With the closure of a similar program offered by another postsecondary provider earlier this year, Hamilton was left without a college-based upgrading program. We were thrilled when Niagara College stepped in and committed to having a physical presence in the city to support learners to prepare for college entry, apprenticeship and employment,” said Gill. “We have an amazing suite of Literacy and Basic Skills services in Hamilton, and, with the addition of Niagara College, we’ll be able to support more learners to prepare for and succeed at the post-secondary level.”

For information about Academic Upgrading at NC visit niagaracollege.ca/liberal/program/literacy/.

Those interested in registering for Academic Upgrading at NC’s Hamilton site may email [email protected] or call 905-641-2252 ext. 4418.
 
A leader in applied education, Niagara College offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Ranked as the No.1 research college in Canada, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.
 
NC President Sean Kennedy (left) cuts the ribbon to officially mark the grand opening of NC’s Academic Upgrading – Hamilton Campus, alongside Vice-President Academic Fiona Allan (right) Rebecca Nicholls, Associate Dean, School of Academic and Liberal Studies (second left), and Jessica Berecz, Associate Director, Workforce Development.

Media inquiries, please contact:
Julie Greco
Communications Consultant
905-328-2532
[email protected]
 
 

The post Niagara College opens doors to opportunity in Hamilton  appeared first on Niagara College.

Niagara College is deepening its roots in cutting-edge horticultural research with a new research greenhouse poised to benefit both students and the local greenhouse sector for generations.

On Nov. 14, the College officially unveiled its Horticultural and Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre (HESIC) Greenhouse. The $12-million facility will be a game-changer when it comes to applied horticultural research on campus and beyond. Located at NC’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, the dedicated research greenhouse is outfitted with advanced technology and equipment to help industry partners innovate. Here, HESIC researchers – including students who are hired to work as part of the team –conduct specialized trials that move the needle toward commercialization.

“Our HESIC Greenhouse is a powerful testament to Niagara College’s leadership in applied horticultural research,” said Niagara College President Sean Kennedy. “With an award-winning Research and Innovation division and a new state-of-the-art facility dedicated to sowing the seeds of innovation, we look forward to growing our impact on Niagara’s horticultural sector.”

Cutting-edge facility

NC’s HESIC team previously had limited space within the College’s academically-focused Teaching Greenhouse – a living lab for NC’s School of Environment and Horticulture.

Now, with 1,260-square metres of new dedicated applied research space on campus, HESIC has significantly branched out its capacity and capabilities. 

The new HESIC Greenhouse was designed to closely replicate a professional growing environment at a smaller, more controlled scale, enabling college researchers to test novel technologies and production practices, and provide validated data that helps bridge the gap between concept and commercial success for growers.

Five individually contained bays with separate temperature and lighting controls allow for the simultaneous testing of diverse conditions. The bays are equipped with spectrum-adjustable LEDs and high-pressure sodium lighting systems to mimic natural or controlled lighting.

The facility also features advanced hydroponic setups, including Ebb and Flood Tables for efficient nutrient delivery and Nutrient Film Technique Systems for maximizing oxygenation at the root zone, as well as a dedicated Highwire Bay for optimizing the vertical growth of vine crops like tomatoes and cucumbers.

For highly accurate research, it includes a Vertical Grow Room with Hoogendoorn climate controls and a Conviron Gen 2000 growth chamber for small-scale tissue culture work. Researchers can track plant performance with precision, ensuring that every trial delivers validated data, with tools like the Phenospex Trailfinder, which scans to measure plant parameters like growth and health, and DroughtSpotter scales, which allows for highly precise irrigation, paving the way for potential drought stress testing.

Representatives from the industry applauded the new facility.

“This cutting-edge greenhouse will drive innovation across the Canadian horticultural sector while providing hands-on research and learning opportunities that prepare the next generation of industry leaders,” said Rodney Bierhuizen, President of Flowers Canada (Ontario) and Niagara Greenhouse Growers Committee member.

Chair of Niagara Greenhouse Growers Committee John Boekestyn called the HESIC Greenhouse, “an important step forward for Niagara’s greenhouse sector.”

“By combining research excellence with real-world industry collaboration, this new facility will help local growers adopt new technologies, improve efficiency, and strengthen Niagara’s leadership in the greenhouse sector in Canada,” said Boekestyn. “We’re proud to see Niagara College investing in innovation that directly supports growers and the future of agriculture across the region.”

“Advancing agricultural research and education is critical to addressing the evolving needs of growers and the industry as a whole. Facilities like this play an important role in fostering innovation and providing the resources needed to evaluate and develop solutions that benefit growers and support the future of agriculture,” said Dr. W. Zeb Rehig, Protected Sweet Pepper Development Breeder for North America, Bayer CropScience  LP. “We are excited to see how this new space will contribute to the growth and success of the horticultural and environmental sciences sectors.”

A significant variety trial is already underway at the HESIC Greenhouse, focusing on more than 50 different pepper varieties, where researchers are comparing performance metrics, including yield and quality, and actively investigating the peppers’ resistance and performance when infected with the Fusarium pathogen. With the first phase nearing completion, the second phase, with new plants, is scheduled to begin in December.

Budding opportunities for students

The HESIC Greenhouse will be fertile ground for students, where academic learning blossoms into professional expertise. Those hired to work as part of the HESIC team gain unparalleled work-integrated learning opportunities, with exposure to top-of-the-line equipment and technologies that are rare even among commercial facilities. As research assistants, students work with real businesses on real problems, and contribute to every phase of a project – from development and data collection to execution and analysis.

“At HESIC and across all our Innovation Centres, our students are leading projects, managing real-world budgets, and interacting directly with our industry partners to drive innovation forward,” said Dr. Marc Nantel, Vice-President, Research, Innovation and Strategic Enterprises. “Student research assistants gain hands-on experience and technical skills far beyond what’s possible in the classroom, which makes them highly sought after for industry employers.”

Research Associate Donna Thien, a spring 2025 graduate of NC’s Greenhouse Technician (Co-op) program, completed her co-op as a research assistant with HESIC last year and was hired as a HESIC research associate after graduation. Her experience with HESIC broadened her exposure to research, building on her academic focus on the grower’s side of horticulture. She now applies her skills at the HESIC Greenhouse to industry research projects: mixing fertilizers and pesticides, diagnosing diseases and deficiencies, identifying pests, and managing high-wire crops.

“I never really considered the possibility of research in the greenhouse industry until HESIC,” she said. “It has broadened my expectations of what could come next, both for myself and the industry.”

As the new research greenhouse expands the HESIC’s capacity to take on more research projects, the team will be able to serve more businesses and hire more students in the future. In addition, it is expected to offer additional opportunities for students from NC’s School of Environment and Horticulture to “cross-pollinate” with Research and Innovation through course-based projects in the future.

Laying the groundwork

Construction on the HESIC Greenhouse broke ground in July 2023.

The project was supported by significant investments from all levels of government, including over $1.5 million from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, $892,807 from the Canadian Foundation for Innovation, $893,391 from the Ontario Research Fund, and $800,000 from Niagara Region Economic Development.

“Providing researchers with the capacity to support the needs of the growing greenhouse technology sector through this fully equipped research facility is an important step for the greenhouse and agri-food economy,” said Dr. Sylvain Charbonneau, on behalf of the Canadian Foundation for Innovation in a congratulatory letter to the College. “Further advancing applied research opportunities is helping stimulate and accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies in the industry, benefitting all Canadians.”

About HESIC

Focused on providing solutions for industry, HESIC offers a full suite of supports, including Genomic services (phenotyping and screening), controlled environment agriculture trials, product collaboration and development, and third-party technology evaluations. Collaborating with HESIC allows businesses to stay focused on their daily operations while College researchers use their expertise to handle cultivation and analysis, positioning HESIC to drive innovation across the entire sector.
HESIC specializes in performing growth trials with horticultural crops that evaluate innovations and improvements. To help bring innovations close to commercialization, it offers assessing technologies, production practices, media and pest/disease control.
Over the past 10 years, HESIC’s team has facilitated nearly 100 industry projects, supported more than 80 small- and medium-sized enterprises and has provided over 200 work-integrated learning opportunities for students.
HESIC is one of five research and innovation centres within NC’s Research & Innovation division, which was named Canada’s top research college in Research Infosource Inc.’s annual ranking for the past two years.
For more information visit ncinnovation.ca/innovation-centres/horticultural-and-environmental-sciences.
NC’s award-winning Research and Innovation division administers research funding through investments from various regional, provincial, and federal agencies. Students and graduates from a variety of programs are hired to work alongside faculty and staff researchers to assist industry partners’ leap forward in the marketplace.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Ranked as the No.1 research college in Canada, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

Media inquiries, please contact:

Julie Greco
Communications Consultant
905-328-2532
[email protected]

The post NC cultivates the future with new research greenhouse appeared first on Niagara College.

Niagara College will open its doors to prospective students and their families as they explore everything the College has to offer at NC’s Fall Open House on Saturday, November 8.

Taking place at both the Welland Campus and Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., this highly anticipated event invites guests to explore Niagara College’s vibrant, career-focused programs and student services, tour state-of-the-art labs, studios, and facilities while connecting directly with faculty, staff, and current students to learn more about what makes Niagara College a leader in experiential learning.

“We take great pride in offering transformative, hands-on learning experiences that prepare our students for success in in-demand careers and industries,” said NC President, Sean Kennedy. “Our Fall Open House is a wonderful way for future students to see our spirit of innovation and community in action and to imagine themselves as part of the dynamic NC community.”

Visitors to this year’s event will also learn about the new academic programs launching in 2026, highlighting the College’s continued commitment to innovation and meeting industry needs. Among the new offerings are Professional Butchery Techniques, Addictions and Mental Health, Cybersecurity, Cook Apprenticeship, and Early Childhood Education – Resource Consulting. The popular Event Management program is also making its return, providing students with hands-on opportunities to plan, coordinate, and execute events across a variety of sectors.

In addition, NC is expanding its online program offerings to provide greater flexibility for learners across Ontario and beyond. These new pathways make it easier than ever for students to pursue high-quality, career-focused education while balancing work, family, and other commitments.

During the Open House, attendees can learn about NC’s admissions process, student services, and financial aid options, as well as explore the many supports available to help students thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Staff from across the College will be on hand to answer questions, offer guidance, and help visitors discover which program or pathway best fits their career goals.

“This is the perfect opportunity for prospective students and their families to immerse themselves in what NC Life is all about,” said Ian Aikenhead, Director, Student Recruitment. “With a wide variety of full-time programs that include expanded online options, there’s truly something for everyone. Our Open House brings that to life by letting visitors experience the people, facilities, and energy that make Niagara College special while creating career-ready graduates.”

Campus tours will be available at both campuses starting at 10 a.m., departing every 30 minutes from a dedicated tour booth.

All NC Learning Enterprises – NC’s on-campus businesses that provide academic excellence, integrated teaching environments, and unique learning experiences for students – will be open for guests to explore.

Registration is encouraged for prospective students attending Open House. Those who register will be entered into a draw for a chance to win a $5,000 credit towards their NC tuition for the 2026-2027 school year. There is also a chance to win one of 10 $100 Amazon gift cards by registering before Friday, Nov. 7 at 11:59 p.m. (EST). Visit the Open House website for full contest details.

For more information about Fall Open House and to register, visit openhouse.niagaracollege.ca. Free parking will be available at both campuses during the event.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College (NC) offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Ranked as the No.1 research college in Canada, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

–30 –

Media inquiries, please contact:
Courtney De Caire
Communications Consultant
289-407-8298
[email protected]

The post Explore Niagara College’s innovative programs at Fall Open House Nov. 8 appeared first on Niagara College.

Beverage innovators across Canada will benefit from Niagara College’s newly expanded Pilot Plant, designed to accelerate product development and help businesses bring new beverages to market with greater speed, safety, and confidence.

NC’s Food and Beverage Innovation Centre (FBIC) has unveiled a sweeping renovation of its Beverage Pilot Plant, reinforcing its role as a national leader in applied research and commercialization for Canada’s beverage sector.

The renovation, recently completed at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, involved a significant reconfiguration and expansion of existing infrastructure to improve efficiency, increase production capacity, and further support the growing needs of Canadian beverage entrepreneurs.

The upgraded line now features an automated canning system with a rotary infeed, rinse-and-code station, nitrogen-dosed filler/seamer, tunnel pasteurizer, and dryers, plus an additional 350-litre process tank that boosts run sizes from 200 litres to 600 litres (roughly 500-1,600 cans per batch). These assets provide an ideal way for small companies to scale up, since they specifically target the “0-to-100 case” gap many emerging brands face before meeting co-manufacturer minimums.

“This expansion is about more than increasing square footage — it’s about elevating the level of service and support we can provide to the beverage industry,” said Lyndon Ashton, Associate Director, FBIC. “With upgraded pilot capabilities and industry-standard equipment, we’re creating an environment that mirrors real-world production, enabling companies to innovate with confidence. This investment allows us to better de-risk the product development process, accelerate commercialization, and help Canadian beverage entrepreneurs bring safe, high-quality products to market faster and more effectively.”

The innovation centre is located within the Marotta Family Innovation Complex and, in addition to the pilot plant, which a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP)–certified and Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)–licensed facility, it also features process-optimization and product-development labs, as well as a beverage analytical cluster. The Centre provides technical services to SMEs across Canada, including formulation, process optimization, shelf-life testing, regulatory compliance, small-batch processing, and sensory analysis.

Since its inception, FBIC has supported hundreds of companies in commercializing innovative food and beverage products, including success stories such as DistillX, Canada’s first zero-alcohol gin and tequila, and Miski Ancestral, a gluten-free quinoa-based beer now listed at the LCBO. Companies may engage FBIC on a fee-for-service basis, through cost-shared applied-research projects, or by combining both approaches.

The newly upgraded Pilot Plant now delivers HACCP certified small-batch processing from 50 to 1,000 L for a variety of beverage types. Key technical activities include formula optimization, pilot trials, scale-up feasibility studies, food safety risk assessments, carbonation, canning, pasteurization, and shelf-life testing, offering clients a certified, low-risk pathway from concept to commercialization.

“Whether you’re a startup launching your first product or an established brand testing a new line, this upgraded space allows for deeper collaboration and faster progression from bench to shelf,” said Ashton.

“This renovation represents a strategic investment in the future of Canada’s beverage sector,” said Marc Nantel, PhD, NC’s Vice-President, Research, Innovation and Strategic Enterprises. “By expanding the capabilities of our Pilot Plant, we’re not only meeting the rising demand for beverage innovation — we’re empowering small- and medium-sized businesses with the tools, expertise, and facilities they need to succeed in a competitive market. It also strengthens our commitment to experiential learning by giving Niagara College students direct access to industry-standard environments where innovation happens.”

The Beverage Pilot Plant operates on both a fee-for-service and funded research model, with support available through various provincial and federal programs, subject to eligibility. SMEs interested in collaborating with FBIC can contact David DiPietro, Business Development Manager, at [email protected] or visit niagaracollege.ca/research for more information.

NC’s award-winning Research and Innovation division administers research funding through investments from various regional, provincial, and federal agencies. Students and graduates are hired to work alongside faculty and staff researchers to assist industry partners’ leap forward in the marketplace. Students come from a variety of the College’s programs, such as Mechanical Engineering Technology, Culinary Innovation and Food Technology, Business Administration – Marketing, and Computer Programmer.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of close to 11,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships worldwide and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

Media inquiries, please contact:

Julie Greco

Communications Consultant

905-328-2532

[email protected]

The post Niagara College expands beverage innovation capacity with major Pilot Plant renovation appeared first on Niagara College.