Message From the Editors

2025 has been a year of momentous change, both in Canada and around the world. In Ottawa, a new federal government brings fresh policies, priorities, and promises. Globally, rapid technological advances, shifting alliances, and growing geopolitical tensions continue to reshape how nations think about their futures.

In this dynamic landscape, Canada’s path forward must be anchored in innovation: innovation that is purposeful, inclusive, and resilient. To remain competitive, secure, and forward-looking, we must invest not only in discovery and technology but also in the people, institutions, and collaborations that translate knowledge into action.

This year, the CSPC Editorial Committee published two themed editorial series that reflect these priorities. The first, on Canada’s innovation strategy, explored how Canada can navigate geopolitical shifts to strengthen its economic future. “Navigating Geopolitical Shifts: Innovation Strategies for Canada’s Economic Future” brought together thought leaders, policymakers, and researchers to discuss how science, technology, and innovation policy can position Canada for resilience and growth amid uncertainty.

The second, on defence spending and R and D, addressed a transformative moment for Canada. With defence spending set to reach NATO’s 2 percent target by 2025–2026 and projected to rise further by 2035, this historic shift presents a unique opportunity to align defence investments with research, innovation, and economic development. Contributors explored how such investments can strengthen Canada’s innovation ecosystem, research capacity, and long-term competitiveness.

It is also a year marked by uncertainty: political, economic, and environmental. Yet within uncertainty lies opportunity, the opportunity to shape a more resilient Canada, capable of navigating global complexity through evidence, creativity, and collaboration.

This vision is reflected in the theme of this year’s CSPC Magazine and Annual Conference, “Toward a Resilient Future for Canada: Mobilizing Science, Knowledge, and Innovation.” Across disciplines and sectors, contributors to this magazine share their insights on how science policy can guide Canada towards that future, one where foresight, inclusion, and innovation go hand in hand.

As always, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our Editorial Committee, our authors, and the broader CSPC community. Your ideas, enthusiasm, and commitment make this publication possible year after year.

We invite you to explore the editorials that follow, and to join us in imagining and building a resilient, innovative, and forward-looking Canada.