About BRIDGE


Connecting research, business, and community through applied insight and collaboration

The BRIDGE Knowledge Centre at the Edwards School of Business connects academic research with real-world challenges. We work with businesses, industries, and community partners to translate research into practical insights while creating meaningful opportunities for collaboration.

Through knowledge translation initiatives, opportunities to connect through the BRIDGE Exchange, and strategic engagement activities, BRIDGE brings together faculty, students, and external partners to share ideas, strengthen relationships, and move knowledge into action.

  • Connect organizations with faculty expertise
  • Support practical, applied research collaborations
  • Translate research into accessible, useful insights 

Our Vision

To be a leader in responsible and relevant applied business research, connecting researchers with businesses and communities to drive meaningful impact.

Our Mission

We strengthen connections between research and practice by creating opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and applied research that responds to real-world needs.

How we work

BRIDGE helps turn research into action by creating approachable, well-supported pathways for collaboration.

  • Connect expertise Connect businesses and community partners with faculty knowledge and research strengths.
  • Support real-world projects Help shape applied research that responds to practical challenges and emerging opportunities.
  • Translate insight clearly Make research more practical, accessible, and easier to use across sectors.
  • Create space for collaboration Bring people together through events, conversations, and shared problem-solving.

Why work with BRIDGE

We make it easier for organizations to engage with research in a way that is practical, relevant, and aligned with their needs.

Research-backed insight

Access faculty expertise and evidence-informed thinking that can support stronger decisions and better outcomes.

Student and faculty collaboration

Explore challenges with support from faculty and students who can contribute fresh ideas and practical research capacity.

Applied project development

Identify opportunities for projects that are collaborative, focused, and built around real-world needs.

Funding pathway support

Navigate grant and funding opportunities that may help reduce costs and expand what is possible. We can connect you with our research facilitator and supports.

Our role is to act as a connector, helping shape projects that create value for both partners and researchers.

Our Team

BRIDGE is led by a small, collaborative team focused on building relationships and advancing applied research.

Joelena Leader

Assistant Professor of Management and Managing Director of BRIDGE

Joelena provides leadership for BRIDGE and helps guide strategy, academic integrity and opportunities that connect University of Saskatchewan research with community and business needs.