CFI Major Science Initiatives Fund (MSIF)

The Major Science Initiatives Fund sits under the Canada Foundation for Innovation and pays for the operating and maintenance costs of national research facilities. It does not buy the underlying infrastructure; it keeps major shared facilities running when their scale and user base exceed what a single institution can carry. The current portfolio includes facilities such as SNOLAB, Canadian Light Source, Ocean Networks Canada, CGEn, and CCGS Amundsen. CFI can cover up to 60% of eligible operating and maintenance costs. The fund moves on a long competition cycle, with the current round tied to 2023 and the next competition expected in 2027. Nineteen facilities are funded in the current round, and the route uses an invitational process that starts with expressions of interest before invited proposals move forward. Annual reports are due June 15. MSIF fits facilities with national significance, stable governance, and a broad user base that cannot be served by a normal project grant. The strongest cases show continuing service to researchers across Canada, a credible operating plan, and evidence that the facility remains essential rather than merely useful. Institutions that can demonstrate long-term stewardship and shared access are the best match.

No upcoming rounds verified. Cadence: Triennial.