The Cross-Border Institute is dedicated to research on the movement of people, goods, services and finances across international borders (FILE/University of Windsor)
The UWindsor Cross-Border Institute (CBI) is internationally recognized for its leadership in cross-border research. The University of Windsor, with financial support from the federal government, was the first university in Canada to establish an institute dedicated to research on the movement of people, goods, services and finances across international borders.
A recent memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the University and Transport Canada (TC) is the latest step in formalizing the University’s role as a leader in this space.
The drafting of the MOU and discussions with TC were led by Marta Leardi-Anderson from the CBI and signed by Vice-President, Research and Innovation Dr. Shanthi Johnson.
The MOU allows the CBI and officials from the National Supply Chain Office (NSCO), part of TC, to bring together industry and academic experts.
Through a collaboration forum, the work will look at how to strengthen supply chains between Canada and the U.S., create unique partnerships and focus discussions and research that creates practical solutions for the efficient movement of legitimate goods and people.
Johnson notes the timeliness of the MOU given the increasing complexity of cross-border relationships.
“Through this MOU, UWindsor brings together researchers, government, and industry to advance practical solutions in cross-border trade, mobility, infrastructure and policy—strengthening regional economic stability and shared prosperity across Canada,” she says.
During their visit to Windsor, the CBI coordinated meetings for NSCO officials who met with University directors and leads of WE-SPARK Health Institute, the Centre for Cities, Agriculture UWindsor Centre of Excellence and Supply Chain Advancement Network in Health, as well as local representatives from the Port of Windsor and Invest Windsor-Essex.
They also viewed research related to the data analytics and mapping of cross-border medical and pharmaceutical supply chains led by Dr. Hanna Maoh as part of the Canada Biomedical Research Fund-supported INSPIRE project at the University.
The MOU between the University and TC is the first TC has signed as part of the NSCO’s ongoing efforts regarding the effectiveness of national supply chains.