CBRS held a Research Funders’ Roundtable with the aim of connecting funders of brain research to articulate shared needs and vision, as well as to explore synergistic collaborations in shaping the national strategy for brain research. The meeting, held virtually over Zoom, convened 21 heads of organizations funding neuroscience and mental health research across the country – including federal and provincial organizations, non-profits, health charities, and private foundations – with a diverse range of focus in disease and brain health. The organizations at this initial gathering represent more than 1,400 grants and $350 million in current funding to brain and mental health research. Consistent across all organizations is a shared belief in the value and importance of brain research, and the impact these efforts have on the lives of Canadians.
In the first roundtable discussion, attendees explored priorities in alignment with the emerging national strategy for brain research. Participating organizations revealed strong congruity of their funding priorities with six near-term Transformative Initiatives that have been identified as representative of Canada’s distinctive collaborative, transdisciplinary, open and ethical approach to brain research. Incorporating important voices in brain research was also raised as a rising area of focus, particularly around Indigenous health. The second roundtable centered on discussing strategies and goals that we would be able to achieve together to advance brain research as a national priority.
View the 2021 Research Funders Roundtable Report here.
