Government of Canada invests in cutting-edge research and the next generation of scientists
News release
More than $800 million in funding will go to 24 science and research organizations across Canada
May 26, 2024 – Québec, Quebec
Canada’s scientists and researchers are working to solve some of the world’s greatest challenges for the benefit of us all. Their innovations and discoveries are the foundation of Canadian economic growth and prosperity, as well as the health and well-being of people in Canada. That is why the Government of Canada continues to make investments to boost research and innovation and ensure Canada remains a leader in research and new technologies.
Today, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, and the Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, announced funding of more than $800 million for third-party science and research organizations through the Strategic Science Fund. The funding will support 24 organizations, as announced in December 2023, and was awarded through a new competitive, merit-based and transparent process, informed by the advice of an independent expert review panel.
These organizations span Canada’s science and research landscape and are making contributions in a range of crucial areas, including researching and developing health care solutions, supporting Indigenous inclusion and research, addressing climate change, supporting Arctic science and research, making advancements in emerging technologies such as quantum computing and artificial intelligence, promoting STEM education among young people, and facilitating learning and training opportunities for post-secondary students. Investments in these organizations, universities, and across the entire science and research ecosystem are helping build a stronger economy. Whether it’s supporting students or helping world-class researchers, science and research funding helps shape tomorrow’s leaders and gives them a fair chance to succeed in this important field.
Quotes
“Science and research are the cornerstones of Canada’s economic well-being and progress. Canada’s researchers work to expand our understanding of the world, and they generate new ideas to solve some of the biggest challenges of our time. With this investment through the Strategic Science Fund, our government is continuing its support for world-class, cutting-edge research and for those who work to inspire and train the next generation.”
– The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
“By investing in health organizations through the Strategic Science Fund, we are advancing Canadian research and knowledge that will improve health outcomes across the country. This funding supports innovative medical treatments, advanced biotechnological applications, genomic science, regenerative medicine, and research into cancer and brain health. By deepening our understanding of health challenges and supporting science-based solutions, we are investing in the well-being of people in Canada.”
– The Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health
“We are pleased to welcome Minister Champagne to Université Laval for this important funding announcement for Canadian research. This major support will enable the ArcticNet research network to continue the concerted study of the rapid climate, environmental, and socio-economic change in the Canadian Arctic, with a new vision co-developed with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Polar Knowledge Canada, and dozens of partners from the North and the South. Our university is proud to remain one of the host institutions of this national initiative, with its offices located in the future scientific complex of the Institut nordique du Québec.”
– Sophie D’Amours, Rector of Université Laval
Quick facts
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The creation of the Strategic Science Fund (SSF) was announced in Budget 2019 as a way to make federal investments in third-party science and research more effective by assessing applicants using a framework of principles for allocating federal funding.
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Since 2016, the government has provided more than $16 billion to support science and research.
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In addition, Budget 2024 provides $825 million to increase support for master’s, doctoral and post-doctoral students, as well as $1.8 billion to the federal granting councils to increase core research grant funding and support Canadian researchers.
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Budget 2024 also includes investments in modern, high-quality research facilities and infrastructure to help solve real-world problems, create economic opportunities, and attract and train the next generation of scientific talent.
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The next call for applications to the SSF is scheduled to take place in 2026–2027. Funding from the current competition will be disbursed from April 2024 to March 2029, pending finalization of contribution agreements.
Associated links
Contacts
Audrey Milette
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
audrey.milette@ised-isde.gc.ca
Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
media@ised-isde.gc.ca
Christopher Aoun
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Health
613-291-4176
Media Relations
Health Canada
613-957-2983
media@hc-sc.gc.ca
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