DAVOS, SWITZERLAND — The Government of Ontario is supporting an innovative online initiative at the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI) in Waterloo, Ontario that will allow researchers and governments to find global solutions to global problems.
“We live in a global world and so many of the threats we face, such as air pollution or terrorism, don't respect borders,” said Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty. “The project we are investing in today has the potential to help governments work with each other, and with experts and other organizations, to find global solutions to global problems — solutions that will benefit Ontarians.”
CIGI will receive nearly $7 million over the next five years to help develop IGLOO (International Governance Leadership Organizations Online), a web-based platform for research on issues of global importance.
“Supporting groundbreaking and innovative research technologies gives Ontario a front row seat on the future,” said Joe Cordiano, Minister of Economic Development and Trade. “Both the province and the region will benefit from new technologies, increased scholarship and potential commercial spin-offs.”
“The launch of IGLOO signifies a new day in research and collaboration,” said Jim Balsillie, Chair of CIGI. “No longer will visa issues, travel costs or geographic boundaries inhibit the free flow of ideas and information.”
The IGLOO initiative will put researchers in a unique position to collaborate with the World Economic Forum, the United Nations and other major academic and research institutions in Ontario, Canada and around the world.
IGLOO will leverage proven technology developed by Open Text of Waterloo. This technology was used recently to help CARE International coordinate its tsunami relief efforts.