Government launches Research Funding For School Food

The Government of Canada has announced a new research funding initiative aimed at strengthening school food programs across the country, with a focus on improving children’s health, learning, and overall well-being. The announcement was made in Ottawa on April 8, 2026, by Anna Gainey and Marjorie Michel as part of the ongoing National School Food Program.

The new initiative, called the Funding Research for Evidence in School Food and Health (FRESH) Team Grant, will provide a total of $12.6 million over the next three years. This funding is designed to support research that will help improve how school food programs are planned, delivered, and evaluated across Canada. The goal is to ensure that these programs are effective, inclusive, and based on real data and community needs.

The funding will support up to 14 research projects under three main areas. These include studying the health, well-being, and social impact of school food programs; improving policies and program delivery for fair and equal access; and focusing on the needs of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students and communities. The initiative reflects a strong commitment to making school food programs more accessible and beneficial for all children.

The funding comes from multiple government bodies, including Employment and Social Development Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada, and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. Together, these organizations aim to build a strong research base that can guide future decisions and improve outcomes for children and families.

Officials highlighted that access to nutritious food plays a critical role in a child’s ability to learn and grow. The research supported through this program will help policymakers better understand what works best and ensure that school food programs remain fair, effective, and sustainable in the long term. It will also help reduce financial pressure on families by supporting access to healthy meals in schools.

Applications for the funding are now open, with a registration deadline of June 25, 2026, and a final submission deadline of October 7, 2026. Researchers and organizations interested in applying are encouraged to review the guidelines and submit proposals that address key challenges in school food systems.

This new investment highlights Canada’s broader commitment to supporting children and youth through better nutrition, stronger education outcomes, and inclusive community programs. By combining research with practical implementation, the government aims to create long-lasting improvements in school food systems across the country.