More than $800 million in
funding will go to 24 science and research organizations across
Canada
SURREY,
BC, May 26, 2024 /CNW/ - Today, while visiting
the Kids Brain Health Network' facility in Surrey, the Honourable Terry Beech, Minister
of Citizens' Services, on behalf of the Honourable
François-Philippe Champagne,
Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, and the Honourable
Mark Holland, Minister of Health, highlighted the government's
support for third-party science and research organizations through
the Strategic Science Fund (SSF), including the investments in
the work of the Kids Brain Health Network (KBHN) and the Community
Circle on Scaling Business Innovation for Humanity.
As announced in December
2023, the SSF supports the work of 24 organizations, which
were 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.
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 has decided to invest
$800 million in the SSF and will
continue to make investments to boost research and innovation and
ensure Canada remains a leader in
innovation, research, and new technologies.
Quotes
"Canada is renowned globally
for its groundbreaking science and innovation. The Strategic
Science Fund ensures Canada
remains a leader in tackling some of the world's most challenging
problems while also attracting the best talent and expertise. Our
government embraces science, research, and evidence in
policymaking, which leads to greater health outcomes and well-being
for Canadians."
– The Honourable Terry Beech, Minister of Citizens' Services
"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
"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
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.
- The Kids Brain Health Network (KBHN) is one of the 24 selected
organizations. KBHN is a national research network focus on kids'
brain development and neurodevelopmental disabilities. KBHN can
receive up to $17 million from the
SSF.
- Another selected organization is the Community Circle on
Scaling Business Innovation for Humanity, which collaborates with
Indigenous and rural communities to develop and implement
innovative, sustainable solutions for water-health challenges
through a unique, community-centric problem-solving methodology.
The Circle is entitled to receiving up to $2.8 million in SSF funding.
Associated link
- List of recipients and funding amounts
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SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada