CIFAR, CABHI receive $850 million in federal science funding

The Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) is among 24 Canadian science and research institutions that have received a collective $858.7 million in funding over the next five years from the federal government's new Strategic Science Fund (SSF). This substantial investment is a testament to the Government of Canada's commitment to supporting world-class research and innovation in Canada.

The funding will enable CIFAR and its partner institutions to pursue groundbreaking research in areas of critical importance to Canada, such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and climate change. This investment will undoubtedly contribute to Canada's continued leadership in these rapidly evolving fields and drive economic growth and prosperity for all Canadians.

The Strategic Science Fund (SSF) was first envisioned in the 2019 federal budget as a means to bolster Canada's research and innovation landscape. In 2021, the SSF launched its inaugural competition, inviting proposals from Canadian science and research institutions. Each application was meticulously evaluated based on a set of criteria, including alignment with federal priorities, national presence, effective governance, and demonstrable impact.

After a rigorous review process, the winners were announced in December 2023, marking a significant milestone in the SSF's journey. This substantial investment underscores the Government of Canada's commitment to supporting world-class research and innovation, fostering economic growth, and enhancing Canada's global competitiveness.

On Sunday, the Honourable Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board, and the Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, proudly announced the Strategic Science Fund (SSF) funding at the Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation (CABHI).

This significant announcement took place in the heart of CABHI's state-of-the-art facility, surrounded by leading researchers and innovators dedicated to advancing brain health and aging research. The presence of Minister Anand and Minister Ien at CABHI underscores the Government of Canada's commitment to supporting cutting-edge research and innovation that addresses the pressing challenges facing our aging population.

The federal government implemented a rigorous evaluation process to select the recipients of the Strategic Science Fund (SSF) funding. Initially, 55 letters of intent were submitted, which were then narrowed down to 34 full applications. These applications underwent a thorough evaluation by sub-committees and a technical review.

The final decision was made by an independent 18-person expert review panel, ensuring a fair and impartial selection process. This comprehensive evaluation process underscores the government's commitment to supporting high-quality research and innovation that will drive Canada's scientific and technological advancement.

Mitacs, a Vancouver-based organization that facilitates research collaborations between academia and industry, emerged as the top recipient of the Strategic Science Fund (SSF) funding, securing $218.1 million. Mitacs plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical applications, connecting researchers and advisors in post-secondary institutions with industry partners and societal organizations.

Through its funding programs, Mitacs supports research projects and startups that have the potential to translate academic discoveries into real-world solutions. Notably, Mitacs recently participated in the $2.3-million pre-seed financing round for Vancouver-based foodtech startup Maia Farms, demonstrating its commitment to fostering innovation and commercialization.

Genome Canada, an independent, federally funded non-profit organization dedicated to advancing genomics research, innovation, and talent development, was awarded $154.2 million from the Strategic Science Fund (SSF). This substantial investment will enable Genome Canada to continue its vital work in supporting genomics research projects and initiatives across Canada.

CIFAR, a Canada-based global research organization renowned for its 128-member AI Chair program, a cornerstone of the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy, received $34.5 million from the SSF. This funding will bolster CIFAR's efforts to foster collaboration and innovation in the field of artificial intelligence, driving advancements that will benefit Canada and the world.