Innovation as a driving force

INO is the largest center of expertise in optics and photonics in Canada and is among the best technological research centres in the world. Since 1988, it has created and developed innovative and valuable solutions to meet the needs of businesses in Quebec and throughout Canada.

A world leader in high technology, INO has implemented more than 7,000 solutions, carried out 78 technology transfers, and contributed to the creation of 36 new companies, which provide jobs to more than 2,000 people.

Through multiple light applications, from laser and fiber optics technologies to imaging systems, INO controls light to capture, identify, predict, decide or transform the real world.

Its innovative solutions support Canadian businesses in several key industries through four business units: Biomedtech; Defense, Security and Aerospace; Sustainable Resources, Agriculture and Manufacturing; and Industrialized Solutions.

Our History

Created in 1985 thanks to the combined determination of Jean-Guy Paquet, who was then the rector of Université Laval, the Canadian Association of Physicists, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), and various partners in the city of Québec area, INO officially set forth on the path of innovation in 1988.

As a true pioneer of the Québec Metro High Tech Park, INO quickly established itself as a key player in industrial research. Over the years, it has carved out an enviable position, both nationally and internationally, thanks to its technological breakthroughs and development of ever more innovative processes and applications.