DistrictQRO consortium launched to promote research and innovation

The Tec de Monterrey Querétaro campus, in collaboration with the Autonomous University of Querétaro (UAQ) and the National Autonomous University of Mexico (ENES-UNAM), has launched the DistritoQRO consortium, which will promote research, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

This consortium focuses on three areas of research: the future of food, the environment, and sustainable manufacturing.

“The more we communicate and connect with each other, especially between institutions, the greater the changes we will produce,” said Dr. Julio Noriega Velasco, Executive Director of Strategy for the Vice Presidency of Research at Tec de Monterrey.

During the launch event, Dr. Noriega explained that the consortium also aims to promote unity between institutions and the search for innovation in sectors which will benefit the Querétaro community.

Making a difference in Food Innovation

The consortium opens its doors with a first call for proposals focused on Agricultural Sustainability. The second will be for Sustainable Production initiatives, followed by Innovation and the Circular Economy.

This initiative invites researchers, professionals, institutions, and people from industry to present innovative ideas to improve one of the most important sectors in Querétaro: the Food Industry.

“Sustainability is not only a priority for the government but it’s also a strategic objective that aligns with key companies in Querétaro,” said the Tec director.

DistritoQRO seeks to specialize and work in various areas of study such as: Regenerative Agriculture, Food Health, and Food Safety, as well as Emerging Technologies.

“This consortium will bring about key changes in the agri-food sector,” added Alcocer.

Environmental and social vision

The institutions that promote DistritoQRO aspire to ensure that research and industry contribute to societal improvement and improving quality of life in the most sustainable way.

This initiative has three pillars related to social development, all of which are important for solving local and international problems.

• Social Urbanism
• Education for All  
• Applied Education

To achieve this goal, priority will be given to research and application of renewable and clean energy, water resources, and climate change mitigation, focusing on transforming daily life within the community.

“Technological development must go hand in hand with human development,” said Dr. Amaya, Rector of the UAQ.

“DistritoQro will give the community the opportunity to benefit from the synergy generated by the participation of the three institutions.” - Pascual Alcocer

Transforming through Sustainable Manufacturing 

Another key area for collaboration is Sustainable Manufacturing, focusing on research which will minimize environmental impact.

The consortium’s directors predict that the industrial sector will benefit from implementing various sustainable strategies, promoting transformation, and technological growth and innovation.

“This initiative will help the development and training of young people through critical and innovative thinking,” added Dr.Raúl Paredes, Rector of UNAM-ENES Juriquilla.

The consortium will also serve as a bridge for new professionals, giving them the opportunity to address issues that will affect their near future, some of which have been generated by the state’s rapid growth.

Their goal is to bring together talents, ideas, and results to generate a positive change in the country’s economic and social development.

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