Canada is at a turning point in its clinical research ecosystem. While provinces have taken important steps to strengthen their individual capabilities, a stronger coordinated national framework is needed for the country to better attract and conduct clinical trials. Other nations, including Australia and the UK, have demonstrated the benefits of unified strategies, offering streamlined regulatory pathways, funding support and tax incentives to make themselves global destinations for research.
The upcoming Pan-Canadian Framework for Promoting Clinical Research in Canada Summit, hosted by the Clinical Research Association of Canada (CRAC), will take place on October 15, 2025, at the Maple Banquet Hall, 1325 Eglinton Ave E, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. This timely event presents an opportunity to shift the trajectory of clinical research in Canada. By bringing together provincial leaders, federal regulators, international experts and patient advocates, the Summit will open the door to building a cohesive framework that can elevate Canada’s role in global clinical research.
Staying Competitive on the Global Stage
Clinical research is rapidly evolving, shaped by new technologies, patient-centered models and global competition for trial investment.
Without a unified approach, Canada risks falling behind countries that have already made much progress in modernizing their processes.
CRAC’s upcoming Summit provides an important platform for Canadian stakeholders to collaborate and to consider strategies that make the country more attractive for sponsors, CROs and life science companies.
A Global and Canadian Dialogue
The agenda balances Canadian priorities with global perspectives, starting with a keynote on the WHO’s Global Action Plan for a Clinical Trial Ecosystem.
Sessions will explore how Canada can learn from the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and Australia’s streamlined ethics processes.
Equally important will be discussions on workforce development and site expansion in Canada.
Canadian-focused panels will tackle pressing topics such as:
- Streamlining contracts, budgets and ethics reviews to accelerate study start-up
- Expanding research capacity through new sites and stronger site collaborations
- Building and retaining a trained workforce, addressing the urgent need for “brain gain” in the sector
- Integrating AI and real-world evidence (RWE) to leverage Canada’s data advantage
- Exploring funding and tax incentives to attract greater investment in clinical research
- Regulatory harmonization led by Health Canada, ensuring efficiency and alignment with global standards
Building a Unified Approach Across Canada
What makes this Summit particularly important is its emphasis on cross-provincial collaboration.
Canada’s healthcare system, managed at the provincial and territorial level, has often led to siloed efforts that limit the country’s competitiveness as a unified research destination.
By bringing together leaders from across the country, alongside patient advocates and regulatory experts, the event aims to chart a path toward a national framework that enhances efficiency, equity and impact.
Practical Engagement for Attendees
More than a series of presentations, the Summit emphasizes collaboration and solution-building.
Attendees will contribute directly by responding to live survey questions during breaks, helping to identify barriers and propose actionable ideas to advance Canada’s clinical trial ecosystem.
With dedicated networking sessions and a closing reception, participants will also have ample opportunity to build new partnerships that can accelerate collaboration long after the event.
Why Clinical Researchers Should Attend
For professionals in clinical operations, regulatory affairs, patient engagement or research site management, this summit represents a rare chance to influence the national conversation.
By participating, attendees can:
- Gain insight into global best practices and how they can be adapted to Canadian contexts
- Contribute to shaping a Pan-Canadian framework that addresses real barriers to trial growth
- Build connections across provinces and sectors, strengthening collaboration within the ecosystem
- Ensure that Canada remains competitive in attracting clinical research that benefits patients and communities
The Pan-Canadian Framework for Promoting Clinical Research in Canada Summit is more than a one-day event. It marks the beginning of a coordinated effort to align stakeholders, modernize processes and strengthen Canada’s global standing in clinical trials.
For those dedicated to advancing clinical research in Canada, and for international professionals seeking to understand how Canada is positioning itself in the global landscape, this summit is an essential gathering.
Secure your registration here, and join leaders, innovators and peers in shaping the future of clinical research in Canada.
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