Montreal chosen as launch site for $1.7B federal push to attract top global researchers
Posted December 9, 2025 3:24 pm.
The federal government is rolling out a $1.7-billion initiative aimed at attracting more than 1,000 top researchers from around the world to Canada over the next decade.
Industry Minister Mélanie Joly and Health Minister Marjorie Michel announced the Canada Global Impact+ Research Talent Initiative on Tuesday, calling it one of the largest and fastest recruitment efforts of its kind. The funding, outlined in Budget 2025, is meant to help Canada compete for elite scientific talent in areas expected to deliver economic, health and societal benefits.
“As other countries constrain academic freedoms and undermine cutting-edge research, Canada is investing in—and doubling down on—science,” said Joly. “By attracting the top minds from around the world to work alongside exceptional Canadian researchers, the Government of Canada is building the kind of scientific and academic powerhouse that drives the strongest economy in the G7. Today’s investment is about securing Canada’s place at the forefront of discovery and innovation and leveraging our strength in science to support our future well-being and prosperity for generations to come.”
The package includes $1 billion for new Canada Impact+ Research Chairs, which will support senior researchers and their teams, including salaries and infrastructure. Another $120 million will fund emerging international early-career researchers, while $400 million will go toward new research infrastructure.
A further $133.6 million over three years will support international doctoral and post-doctoral trainees.
“Our government has chosen science and believes in science. It has chosen to tackle some of Canada’s biggest challenges with this world-leading investment,” said Bardeesy. “The Canada Global Impact+ Research Talent Initiative will attract the world’s leading and most promising researchers, whose work will bring direct economic, societal and health benefits for Canadians.”
Ottawa says the investment is designed to strengthen the country’s research ecosystem at a time of rapid technological change and growing global competition, positioning Canada as a premier destination for scientific talent and innovation.
