As part of a new series of Huddle "Insights" podcasts, Don Mills and David Campbell are talking to experts to determine what we should do to foster a more innovative economy in Atlantic Canada. New research published by the OECD finds the four Atlantic Provinces invest far less than the OECD average in research and development as a share of GDP.

What would it take to encourage businesses to invest more into innovation? How can we better leverage public research and development expenditures to create stronger provincial economies?

What is the role of entrepreneurship and innovative start-up companies? This is where we start the series by talking to Matt Cooper, Chief Innovation Officer at Volta in Halifax. Cooper goes deep into how Volta is supporting tech-based entrepreneurship in Atlantic Canada and helping nurture new companies with great ideas.

From recruitment support to preparing a compelling business plan for investors, Volta and other incubators around New Brunswick have an important role to play.

You can listen to the conversation with Cooper in the player above. Better yet, search for “Huddle Insights” on a podcast platform like Apple or Spotify. Follow the show and never miss an episode. You can also listen to past episodes on those platforms.

The “Insights” podcast combines the experiences of an economist, David Campbell, and a social scientist, Don Mills, to explore the challenges and opportunities facing Atlantic Canada, promote data-driven decision-making among policymakers, and encourage a wider dialogue and debate leading to greater prosperity for the region.

This episode of Insights is brought to you by MNP Digital – a firm that guides, protects, and empowers organizations along their digital journey. See how at mnpdigital.ca/atlantic-canada-is-home/