The Government of Canada is investing $13.5 million over 3 years in the Rick Hansen Foundation to strengthen spinal cord injury (SCI) research and care in Canada.
Rick Hansen Foundation
For 25 years, the Rick Hansen Foundation has been the driving force behind collaborative, interdisciplinary research. The foundation’s research focuses on finding ways to improve lives and help find a cure for SCI.
About the Project
This project will support leadership, operations and programs as well as formalize and launch the Rick Hansen Institute. The Institute will make significant contributions to Canadian SCI research and care and will strengthen Canada’s leadership in the field internationally. Funding will also support the implementation of the 25th anniversary campaign of the Man in Motion World Tour. Rick Hansen visited more than 30 countries and raised over $26 million for spinal cord research during the 1985 tour. The total amount is now more than $200 million. The anniversary campaign will highlight Canadian leadership in SCI research and care.
Project Benefits
This project will help maintain Canada’s place at the leading edge of SCI research. The technologies and programs offered by the Rick Hansen Foundation enable disabled Canadians to enter the labour market and reach their full potential, improving their overall quality of life.
This investment supports the Government of Canada’s Science and Technology Strategy by helping to build and sustain Canada’s international research leadership in health and related life sciences and technologies. Also, this investment supports the Government of Canada’s Advantage Canada plan by enhancing Canadian research excellence.
Year 2 of Canada’s Economic Action Plan invests close to $1.4 billion in initiatives to promote science and technology and innovation. This builds on an unprecedented federal investment of nearly $5 billion in Year 1 of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.