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CFI publishes its 2025–26 annual report

Key accomplishments include new approaches to funding Major Research Facilities, attracting global talent and connecting research infrastructure with Canadian businesses

OTTAWA, ONTARIO ― Today, the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) announced the tabling in Parliament of its 2025–26 annual report called Strategic investments, national impact, which spotlights a year of new initiatives aimed at strengthening Canada’s research and innovation ecosystem and responding to changing national priorities.

The report covers the period from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, during which the CFI advanced its new strategic direction. Known as CFI 3.0, this next chapter saw the CFI reinforce the role of research in driving economic growth and helping Canada address its most pressing challenges. 

“In uncertain times, one thing remains clear: research is essential to Canada’s future, and through our investments, partnerships and strategic focus, we are strengthening our national impact,” said Sylvain Charbonneau, President and CEO of the Canada Foundation for Innovation.

CFI 3.0 marked the beginning of the CFI’s efforts to put this strategic direction into action. Working with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) and the research community, the CFI proposed a decision-making framework and funding model to support the long-term sustainability of Canada’s Major Research Facilities. This work represents a new approach to funding these facilities and a crucial step towards strengthening our country’s capacity to lead on the global stage.

Building on its longstanding commitment to research excellence, the CFI also sharpened its focus on attracting global talent and strengthening connections between research infrastructure and the private sector. Following a $400-million federal investment, it launched the call for proposals for the Canada Impact+ Research Infrastructure Fund to equip internationally recruited researchers with the infrastructure they need to pursue their work in Canada.

The CFI’s Board of Directors also approved projects through the 2025 Innovation Fund competition, which included a new funding stream for core facilities. These collaborative research hubs give researchers and businesses access to specialized equipment and expertise, helping strengthen connections between research and commercialization.

Read: Strategic investments, national impact – Annual report 2025–26