Ottawa, ON – November 5, 2025 – The Health Charities Coalition of Canada (HCCC) welcomes the Government of Canada’s 2025 Budget, which makes bold investments in research talent, innovation infrastructure, and the life sciences sector—critical pillars for advancing health outcomes and driving long-term economic prosperity.
“By championing research talent, we not only fuel scientific progress—we ensure that patients in Canada gain timely access to the innovations that can transform their lives,” said Laura Syron, Chair of the HCCC Board of Directors and President and CEO of Diabetes Canada. “Health charities look forward to working with partners across academia, industry, healthcare, and government to accelerate pathways for research talent and deliver meaningful impact for people nationwide.”
Budget 2025 includes a $1.7 billion International Talent Attraction Strategy to recruit over 1,000 international researchers, alongside $1 billion in new funding for Canada’s granting councils and $400 million for research infrastructure through the Canada Foundation for Innovation. These investments will help Canadian institutions attract and retain top-tier talent, strengthen research capacity, and drive innovation in critical sectors such as health, biotechnology, and life sciences.
HCCC also applauds the government’s recognition of the life sciences sector as a strategic driver of Canada’s economy. With targeted support through the Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative, expanded SR&ED eligibility, and commitments to protect Canadian intellectual property, Budget 2025 positions life sciences as a key contributor to sustainable growth, high-value employment, and national resilience.
Budget 2025 affirms the essential role of research and innovation in securing Canada’s sovereignty and prosperity in an increasingly complex global landscape. As the government responds to global economic and geopolitical shifts, investments in science and research are recognized as foundational to building a more resilient, competitive, and secure Canada.
“These investments are a clear signal that the government recognizes the foundational role of research and life sciences in building a healthier, more prosperous Canada,” said Connie Côté, CEO of HCCC. “We are encouraged by the focus on talent development, innovation, and economic competitiveness, and we remain committed to ensuring that these investments translate into real-world benefits for patients and communities across the country.”
Members of the Health Charities Coalition of Canada look forward to integrating the perspectives of individuals living with diseases and conditions and the health charity sector as implementation details emerge.
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About Health Charities Coalition of Canada
Founded in 2000, the Health Charities Coalition of Canada (HCCC) is a member-based organization comprised of national health charities and patient groups who represent the voice of patients at all levels of the health continuum. Our mandate is leading national collective action on health policy and health research to benefit patients living in Canada. A full list of our members can be found at (http://www.healthcharities.ca/membership/our-members.
For more information, please contact:
Heather Idt
ea@healthcharities.ca