Research funding allows the College to partner with small and medium-sized businesses in the region to conduct projects and services, which provide innovative solutions for industry. These include producing and testing prototypes, evaluating new technologies, developing new or improved products and processes, and conducting business and marketing studies to prepare for new markets. NC Research & Innovation conducts applied research, technical services and business and commercialization solutions with industry partners through its Agriculture & Environment Innovation Centre, Business & Commercialization Solutions Centre, Canadian Food & Wine Institute Innovation Centre, and Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre.

Niagara College also administers the funding for two multi-institutional research networks, including the Southern Ontario Network for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation (SONAMI), and the Greenhouse Technology Network (GTN).