In an attempt to gain a deeper understanding of the practical realities of individual firms in pursuit of innovation, including the challenges and barriers they face along the way, Industry Canada commissioned a study of innovating firms. This report focusses on the stages of innovation: concept development, precommercialization, market entry or commercialization, and the next cycle of innovation. The 7 firms profiled are: Genesis Genomics Inc.; Ballard Power Systems Inc.; Iogen Corporation; Garrison Guitars; Braintech Inc.; My Virtual Model Inc.; Research in Motion Ltd.