New research fund promotes Canadian excellence

Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced on Thursday the launch of the Canada First Research Excellence Fund (CFREF).

“Our government is committed to promoting excellence in science, technology and innovation, with a view to advancing the economic prospects and well-being of Canadians,” said the Prime Minister. “Canada’s ability to attract top talent and research partnerships requires its world-class institutions to have the ability to seize emerging opportunities on the global stage by capitalizing on their proven strengths.”

The country’s research-intensive universities through the U15, including McMaster, had proposed that the government invest in the creation of a new fund to bolster Canada’s research strengths.

Since its announcement in Budget 2014 of a federal commitment to $1.5-billion over 10 years, the U15 has been looking forward to the official launch of CFREF as a significant commitment by Canada to support globally competitive research.

“CFREF provides an opportunity for McMaster to build on its record of research excellence,” said president Patrick Deane. “The government commitment will help to put Canada firmly on the map in key areas of research to benefit Canadians and the world.”
The revised Science Technology and Innovation Strategy was also unveiled at the announcement.

You can find more information at the following links:

Canada First Research Excellence Fund
Updated Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy: Seizing Canada’s Moment: Moving Forward in Science, Technology and Innovation 2014