ISED cuts $20-million from Strategic Science Fund nearly two years after signing agreements with recipients

The reduction is a part of the federal government’s spending review, and impacts 17 organizations. BioCanRX president Dr. Stéphanie Michaud says the cut is ‘inconsistent’ with the government’s messaging on the importance of funding science.

The current round of funding for the Strategic Science Fund, which falls under Industry Minister Mélanie Joly’s mandate, will end in 2028-29. ISED says it plans to go ahead with a call for the next round of funding in 2026-27. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

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BY TESSIE SANCI

March 22, 2026

Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada informed organizations receiving money through the Strategic Science Fund late last month that it will cut $20-million from the $800-million fund as a part of the government’s plan to reduce spending.

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