This document outlines the results of a rethinking process with regard to the department's S & T activities, and represents an opportunity to tell Canadians that Natural Resources Canada has listened to their opinions and insights regarding S & T in the federal government. It also discusses the S & T activities of other parts of the portfolio such as Atomic Energy of Canada Limited and, to a lesser extent, the Atomic Energy Control Board, the National Energy Board and others.

This paper presents the broad outline and first stages of a plan of action to build a more innovative economy in Canada. The government's agenda for jobs and growth provides for a comprehensive series of practical initiatives to give our economy more strength and staying power. The plan focuses on four key areas: marketplace climate, trade, infrastructure, and technology. It calls looks at partnerships among all Canadians and their institutions - businesses, unions, professional associations, interest groups, governments - and examines job creation and growth in the private sector. More precisely, topics covered are: broad objectives; the challenge; principles and approach of building a more innovative economy; marketplace climate; and, expanding markets for jobs and growth.