"There is no doubt that Canada has outstanding discovery potential. The country has some of the best genomics research facilities and scientists. Genome Canada, for example, is the primary funding and information resource relating to genomics and proteomics… and its network of scientists have participated in major international projects." (Biotech 2007; Life Sciences: A global Transformation, Burrill & Company)

enome Canada - a not-for-profit organization established in February 2000 - was given a mandate by the Government of Canada to develop and implement a national strategy for supporting large-scale genomics and proteomics research projects, for the benefit of all Canadians.

In eight years, much has been accomplished. Genome Canada adopted a bold, yet systematic approach which focuses its activities exclusively in the areas of genomics and proteomics research with an emphasis on the delivery of tangible and measurable results. This approach has positioned Canada among the world leaders in the following fields of expertise for genomics and proteomics research such as: human health, agriculture, environment, forestry, fisheries, and new technology development. Furthermore, Genome Canada continues to play a leadership role on the ethical, environmental, economic, legal and social issues (GE³LS) associated with genomics and proteomics research.

Since 2000, the Canadian federal government has invested $840 M in Genome Canada, to which has been added close to $1.0 billion in partnered co-funding and interest earnings. This additional funding was secured through the development of collaborative relationships and partnerships with the private, public and venture philanthropist organizations both in Canada and abroad to jointly finance large-scale genomics and proteomics research projects.

These investments have enabled Genome Canada to build a very strong organization to support research projects, thus allowing Canadian genomics researchers to gain well-deserved respect and credibility in both the national and international arenas for cutting-edge research sciences that will have tremendous results for Canadian society and the global community.

Genome Canada adheres to an innovative business model which is based on the premise of funding and managing large-scale multi-disciplinary internationally peer-reviewed research projects and of providing access to cutting-edge science and technology platforms to researchers in all genomics and proteomics fields of expertise. The model also requires the establishment of regional focal points of expertise in genomics research across Canada as well as the co-funding of projects with both domestic and international partners.

Of high importance to Genome Canada is assuming the role of facilitator, drawing together industry, government departments and agencies, universities, research hospitals and the public in support of large-scale genomics and proteomics research projects of strategic importance to Canada, and to the global community.