The Government of Canada provides several different streams of funding to support the growth of Canada’s biomanufacturing and life sciences industry and academic research. These streams are offered by multiple government agencies, with different areas of focus but the same ultimate goal, to strengthen a critical industry and Canada’s economy, ultimately ensuring our pandemic readiness, both now and in the event of future health emergencies.
If you are seeking funding for a biomanufacturing or life sciences project, or for academic research, please explore the different options below to see which funding stream you may qualify for.
Strategic Innovation Fund (Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada)
The Strategic Innovation Fund's objective is to spur innovation for a better Canada by providing funding for large projects and innovation. It covers all sectors of the economy, including for-profit and not-for profit organizations, with the goal of supporting the Canadian innovation ecosystem.
Canada Biomedical Research Fund (Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council) and Biosciences Research Infrastructure Fund (Canada Foundation for Innovation)
The Canada Biomedical Research Fund (CBRF) and the Biosciences Research Infrastructure Fund (BRIF) are both designed to strengthen research systems and the talent pipeline for biomanufacturing and life sciences. The CBRF supports high-risk, applied research, training and talent development, as part of a suite of foundational investments to establish a robust domestic biomanufacturing and life sciences sector in Canada. The BRIF addresses the biosciences research infrastructure needs of postsecondary institutions and strengthens their capacity to support pandemic preparedness.
Industrial Research Assistance Program (National Research Council of Canada)
The National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP) provides advice, connections, and funding to help Canadian small and medium-sized businesses increase their innovation capacity and take ideas to market. The Program is delivered through a dedicated network of Industrial Technology Advisors located in communities across Canada, helping businesses succeed across all industry sectors.
Invest in Canada (Global Affairs Canada)
Invest in Canada is recognized for high-quality life sciences and health care solutions, Canada is home to a large pool of highly skilled biomanufacturing and life sciences professionals with a broad range of expertise. Canada offers an innovative environment for companies, with first-rate academic institutions, wide-reaching research networks, numerous partnership opportunities and low costs.
Trade Commissioner Service: Life sciences (Global Affairs Canada)
Ready to do business internationally? Our trade commissioners around the world can support Canadian companies with market intelligence, identify new business opportunities and find qualified contacts that will help them succeed in foreign markets.
Clinical Trials Fund (Canadian Institutes of Health Research)
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) is strengthening the clinical trials ecosystem to improve health care and health outcomes for all Canadians. CIHR is accelerating the development and implementation of the best methods in clinical trials to ensure Canada is prepared to face health challenges.