More than $800 million in
funding will go to 24 science and research organizations across
Canada
TORONTO, May 26, 2024
/CNW/ - 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, at the Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation, the
Honourable Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board of
Canada, and the Honourable Marci
Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth highlighted
funding of more than $800 million for
third-party science and research organizations through the
Strategic Science Fund. The Canadian Institute for Advanced
Research and the Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation, were
also in attendance as recipients of the SSF. The funding announced
today 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, encouraging
innovations in aging and brain health, 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.
Quotes
"We are investing in science and research organizations that
play a vital role in Canada's
research ecosystem. Through the Strategic Science Fund we are
supporting organizations that help expand our understanding of the
world and generate new ideas to tackle the big challenges of our
time. Through these investments we are helping cement Canada's position as a world leader in
innovation and ensure a better quality of life for all
Canadians."
– The Honourable Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board of
Canada
"Today, we highlight the importance of investing in skills for
careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. When
you have a dream, nothing should stand in the way of achieving it.
Access to the right tools is crucial for turning dreams into
reality. Research is where innovation thrives and ideas for a
better future take shape. This fund not only supports young people
aiming to make scientific advancements but also bridges the
inclusivity gap in these fields."
– The Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality
and Youth
"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, the Government of
Canada 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
"CABHI implements science-driven solutions to improve the lives
of older Canadians, including those impacted by dementia. Our
strong commitment to engaging a diverse community of innovators,
older adults, caregivers, researchers, post-secondary institutions,
health care providers, and nonprofit, government, and private
sector partners has proven invaluable to our success. We are
grateful to the Government of Canada for this funding so we can continue
this critical work and collaborate with our SSF partners to amplify
our collective impact for the benefit of Canadians from coast to
coast to coast."
– Dr. Allison Sekuler, CABHI's
President and Chief Scientist
"CIFAR is, at its core, a national resource with global
connections. CIFAR depends on national-level funding in order to
take the risks that have led our programs to numerous profound
advances in research. I'm delighted that the support through SSF
will allow our organization to continue pursuing bold ideas that
drive profound impact. I would also like to congratulate fellow
third-party organizations who have also received funding through
SSF."
– Stephen Toope, President & CEO
of CIFAR
Quick facts
- 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.
- Since 2016, the government has provided more than $16 billion to support science and research.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 link
- List of recipients and funding amounts
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SOURCE Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat