BC and Manitoba Centres Win National Award for Non-Alcoholic Beer Innovation

The BC Beverage Technology Access Centre (BC BTAC) at Okanagan College and the Prairie Research Kitchen (PRK) at RRC Polytech have garnered national recognition for their successful collaboration with a Métis-owned microbrewery in Winnipeg. The two research centres jointly received the Most Impactful Interactive Visit Award at the 2025 TAC Innovate Awards, held in Quebec City by Tech-Access Canada last month. This award celebrates outstanding applied research partnerships that bridge the gap between industry and Canada’s network of Technology Access Centres (TACs).

The collaboration aimed to assist the microbrewery in developing a premium non-alcoholic craft beer, a category that is rapidly gaining traction in the beverage industry. The teams at BC BTAC and PRK combined their expertise in sensory analysis, analytical testing, and process optimization. This support helped the microbrewery advance towards commercialization while also enhancing its internal research capabilities.

Collaboration Highlights Innovation in Applied Research

According to Karin Grosstessner-Hain, Manager of BC BTAC, the award exemplifies the effective partnership between Technology Access Centres and the industry. “Both teams demonstrated incredible adaptability, knowledge and impact in applied research. I’m proud of the value our TACs are bringing to the economy, across provinces and sectors,” she stated in a press release.

Leaders from both institutions emphasized that this recognition underscores the significance of cross-provincial research partnerships in Canada. Mary Butterfield, Director of Applied Research at Okanagan College, noted, “This national recognition underscores the strength of applied research at Okanagan College and the value of collaboration across Canada’s Technology Access Centres.” By integrating expertise from multiple institutions, the teams are not only helping industry partners innovate but also creating valuable applied learning experiences for students.

The project also offered practical experience for a Life Sciences co-op student from RRC Polytech, further expanding BC BTAC’s portfolio in non-alcoholic beverage development. Dr. Jolen Galaugher, Executive Director of Research, Partnerships & Innovation at RRC Polytech, remarked, “Cross-provincial partnerships are essential for driving innovation and creating solutions for Canadian businesses on a local, national and international scale.”

Commitment to Local Economic Growth

Both institutions assert that this initiative aligns with their broader objectives to support innovation and bolster local businesses, contributing to regional economic growth. Samantha Lenci, Vice President Academic at Okanagan College, extended her congratulations to everyone involved in receiving the award. She emphasized the importance of the collaborative effort in supporting local businesses through research and development.

Okanagan College continues to engage in various research projects aimed at addressing real-world challenges faced by businesses and communities. The recognition received by BC BTAC and PRK not only highlights their individual achievements but also sets a precedent for future collaborations across Canada’s Technology Access Centres.