FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE San Diego, CA – June 20, 2017 – Today, the University Hospital Foundation, accompanied by representatives from Merck Canada Inc. and the Government of Alberta’s Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, announced that they are working towards the creation of the Alberta Merck Innovation in Health Fund (AMI in Health Fund). This Private Public Philanthropic Partnership (P4) will aim to support innovation and industry-driven applied research in Alberta’s life science sector, with the ultimate goal of advancing long-term health outcomes, quality of life, and economic prosperity for Albertans. Once established, the initiative will focus on supporting health research and innovation in critical areas such as cardiometabolics, oncology, neuroscience, generation of real-world evidence, and health care delivery. In addition, it will support other health innovation projects in the province, including a Merk-sponsored health technology incubator that will support the growth of early start-up health companies and apply innovations which will enhance healthcare practices and reduce costs.