The MicroSystems Technology Research Initiative (MSTRI) was established in the fall of 2000. Located on the University of Alberta campus within the Faculty of Engineering, MSTRI's goal is to foster the development of a Canadian microsystems industry through the support of innovative research projects where the anticipated outcomes demonstrate a potential for crystallizing commercial opportunities.

Resulting from the Western Economic Partnership Agreement (WEPA) as executed between Alberta, Economic Development and Western Economic Diversification Canada in December 2003, MSTRI has received funding in support of its programs and operations from the Alberta Innovation Program and Alberta, Innovation and Science with a matching commitment from Western Economic Diversification Canada. Of the funding commitments received  $1,865,000 has been earmarked for direct MSTRI Program support with $1,380,000 budgeted in support of the MSTRI Technical Program and the remaining $485,000 targeted in support of the MSTRI Non-Technical Program ($100,000) and the MSTRI Entrepreneurship Program ($375,000).