Universities Perform more than One-Third of Canadian R&D, Thirteen Percent of U.S. R&D

At 54 percent, private industry performed $15.8 billion (Canadian) of Canada's R&D in 2007. This was followed by universities performing $10.4 billion, or 36 percent. The Canadian federal government performed 8 percent ($2.3 billion) and non-profit organizations contributed to 1 percent ($324 million) of R&D efforts.

Private industry was also the highest sector in the U.S. in 2007, performing 72 percent of the country's R&D efforts, or $265.2 billion. Universities were responsible for $48.9 billion, or 13 percent of the total, which was similar in size to R&D by the federal government, at 11 percent, or $38.6 billion. Finally, non-profits represented 4 percent, or $15.3 billion.

The sources of funding for R&D, also demonstrate significant differences between the two countries. In Canada the private sector contributed $13.8 billion, or 48 percent, of the total in 2007. The federal government was the second-highest source at 19 percent, or $5.4 billion. Universities accounted for 16 percent ($4.8 billion) and non-profit organizations 3 percent ($849 million). Additionally, other sources such as provincial governments ($1.5 billion) and foreign entities ($2.6 billion), provided the remaining 14 percent of funding. In all $29 billion was directed to R&D in Canada in 2007.

In the U.S., the private sector provided two-thirds of the total funding, at $245 billion. The federal government was also the second highest provider, with 27 percent, or $98.3 billion. Non-profit institutions were the next highest sources at $11.6 billion (3.2 percent), followed by universities at $9.9 billion (2.7 percent). The rest of the funding, $3.2 billion, comes from various non-federal government sources, which represents 0.9 percent of the total. In all $368 billion was directed to U.S. R&D in 2007.

While the exchange rates between Canada and the United States have fluctuated back and forth in the last two years, on occasion reaching near parity, the amounts reflected in the reports are for dollars in their respective countries.

The funding details of the Canadian R&D system are just one part of the Momentum: The 2008 Report on University Research and Knowledge Mobilization. Also included are in-depth explanations of funding, research and partnerships in the Canadian academic system. More at:
http://www.aucc.ca/momentum/index_e.html