Canada’s National Research Facilities deliver outstanding, world-class science.
Types of research facilities
Researchers and innovators from academia, government and industry can access cutting-edge equipment, expertise and data capabilities in research facilities funded by the CFI. These include: core facilities, National Research Facilities and a subset of National Research Facilities we call Major Research Facilities. These serve regional, pan-Canadian and international research communities.
What are core facilities?
Core facilities are shared facilities that provide access to state-of-the-art research services, analyses, instruments, technology, expertise and training under a centralized governance model to multiple researchers within an institution or region.
Learn how the CFI supports core facilities through Stream 3 of the Innovation Fund.
Discover how core facilities are partnering for success
What are National Research Facilities?
National Research Facilities are larger and more complex than core facilities. They provide access to highly specialized research equipment, digital platforms and services that are one-of-a-kind in Canada, as well as scientific and technical expertise. They serve users from across Canada and internationally, enabling world-class research, technology development and knowledge mobilization.
National Research Facilities receive operating and maintenance funding through the CFI’s Major Science Initiatives Fund and are characterized by having mature, transparent governance and management structures.
Explore all 19 of Canada’s National Research Facilities
Discover the one-of-a-kind capabilities of National Research Facilities
Investing for impact
What are Major Research Facilities?
Six of the National Research Facilities (described above) have been designated by the Government of Canada as Major Research Facilities. They are large-scale, complex facilities that:
- Perform at the highest level of international science and have an exceptional ability to advance Canada’s scientific interests, deliver on mission-driven priorities, provide benefits of national strategic value, serve diverse research communities and engage international collaborators
- Are the costliest research facilities to build and operate, and therefore require long-term, sustainable funding for both capital costs as well as operations and maintenance
- Are selected by the Government of Canada to be managed as a portfolio of facilities, rather than as individual assets.
Find out more about what makes Major Research Facilities a unique subset of National Research Facilities.
Meet Canada’s Major Research Facilities
Why does the CFI invest in core facilities and National Research Facilities?
By investing in core facilities and National Research Facilities, the CFI:
- Brings far-reaching benefits to Canada in key economic sectors and key areas of discovery
- Maximizes the impact of public funds by encouraging sharing of equipment and expertise
- Serves the research community’s needs through broad access to state-of-the-art research capabilities
- Positions Canada to respond to research priorities by nurturing collaborations and training highly qualified people.
