Okanagan College Invests $1.2 Million to Boost Beverage Innovation

Okanagan College (OC) has completed a significant renovation at its Penticton campus, investing $1.2 million to enhance support for the local beverage industry. The renovation includes a new beverage canning line at the college’s research lab, as announced by the BC Beverage Technology Access Centre (BTAC). This upgrade is designed to facilitate small-batch beverage innovation, providing industry professionals with essential resources for experimentation.

B.C. Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, Jessie Sunner, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, “This renovation at the BC Beverage Technology Access Centre at Okanagan College will bring innovation and sustainable solutions to a sector that plays a vital role in our province.” Sunner emphasized that by leveraging the expertise of post-secondary institutions, the province can foster research that supports business growth and strengthens the economy.

The newly installed canning line expands the range of testing services available at BC BTAC. Technicians at the centre collaborate with industry players throughout the product lifecycle, aiding in the development and refinement of beverage innovations. According to OC, the centre is one of four Technology Access Centres in British Columbia and stands out as the only one dedicated to addressing challenges specific to the beverage sector.

Funding for the renovations was secured through the BC Knowledge Development Fund and the Canada Foundation for Innovation, which contributed a total of $638,226. Ravi Kahlon, B.C. Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth, noted the critical role of BC BTAC in supporting sustainable growth within the province’s beverage industry. He stated, “The BC BTAC has played a key role in helping our province’s beverage industry grow and innovate sustainably, and this renovation will provide even greater support for producers to succeed.”

The BC BTAC remains accessible to all professionals working in the beverage industry. Samantha Lenci, OC provost and vice-president academic, expressed the college’s commitment to supporting the food, beverage, and tourism sectors, stating, “Our teams are here to help the beverage sector through this incredible research and innovation facility in Penticton. We continue to look for more ways to support these critical industries that are so vital to our region and to our entire province.”

With these renovations, Okanagan College positions itself as a key player in advancing innovation within the beverage industry, helping local businesses thrive while contributing to broader economic growth in British Columbia.