The Government of Canada is investing $67 million in life-sciences projects aimed at strengthening domestic health security, medical manufacturing and preparedness for future health emergencies.

The funding, announced on September 18, will support five projects through the Life Sciences Fund, with investments focused on research, manufacturing capacity and health-related supply chains.

One major project will receive up to $21.9 million to develop domestic antimicrobial manufacturing capacity and support clinical studies. Another project involving STEMCELL Technologies will receive up to $2.8 million to establish Canadian manufacturing capacity for custom cell-culture media.

The government is also providing funding to strengthen pandemic-preparedness research hubs across Canada. In addition, University of Toronto researcher Dr. Mina Tadrous will receive $2.2 million to establish the Canadian Drug Supply Observatory, designed to monitor and respond to drug shortages.

Officials say the investments are intended to support Canadian health innovation, domestic supply chains and life-sciences research, while strengthening the country's ability to respond to emerging health threats.

The announcement comes as Canada continues efforts to expand its domestic life-sciences capabilities and reduce vulnerabilities in critical medical supply chains.