Federal budget: Increased university research funding

McGill University applauds the Government of Canada’s commitment to increase funding for university research, as announced today as part of Finance Minister Jim Flaherty’s budget. In particular, McGill welcomes the creation of the Canada First Research Excellence Fund.

“The creation of the Canada First Research Excellence Fund strengthens the ability of Canadian universities to be global leaders in research and innovation”, said Prof. Suzanne Fortier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of McGill University. “It adds significantly to previous investments in research excellence.”

Principal Fortier also welcomes the additional investments in the three federal granting agencies, as well as the measures aimed at student support, internships, graduate and industrial training.

“The government’s increased investment in internships is a ‘win-win-win’ for students, Canadian employers and universities,” she added. “In addition to providing students with valuable work experience and a new environment in which to apply their learning, student internships are one of the best ways to increase knowledge exchange between universities and organizations.”