AAN Website > Post > About Canadian Nurses Foundation (CNF)

 

For more than 60 years, CNF has been awarding scholarships and bursaries to nurses across Canada. In that time, over $12 million in scholarships and bursaries have been awarded. Funding has been provided for mental health programming to over 25,000 nurses and nursing students from coast to coast to coast. And investing in nurse-led research continues to help transform patient care from bedside to bench side.

Together, we’re not just funding nurses—we’re fueling a healthier, stronger Canada.”

Empowering the Next Generation of Nurses

Canada’s future depends on the strength of its nurses—and CNF is leading the way. From coast to coast to coast, we’re helping to build a strong nursing workforce by providing financial support, advancing education, promoting mental wellness, and funding critical, nurse-led research. Whether it’s in a northern community or a downtown hospital, CNF ensures every nurse has the tools to lead, heal, and innovate. Through targeted investments and strategic programs, “Healing Healthcare” is designed to address the critical needs of nurses and nursing students while improving healthcare outcomes for all Canadians.

Healing Healthcare:

  1. Advancing Nursing Education
    CNF increases scholarships and bursaries to support nursing students at all levels of education, with a focus on equitable access for underrepresented populations in nursing.
  2. Promoting Healthy Minds, Healthy Nurses, Healthy Communities
    In collaboration with leading organizations, CNF funds programs that prioritize the mental health and well-being of nurses. These initiatives include access to support services, training, and resources to address the unique pressures of the nursing profession.
  3. Shaping the Future of Nursing
    Through mentorship programs and collaborative initiatives, CNF empowers nurses to overcome systemic barriers, grow professionally, and lead innovation in healthcare.
  4. Supporting Health Research
    CNF invests in nurse-led research that drives healthcare innovation, enhances patient care, and tackles key challenges in the healthcare system.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Action

Guided by its Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy, CNF is committed to supporting nurses and nursing students from diverse backgrounds. Dedicated awards are available for First Nations, Metis, Inuit, BIPOC, 2SLGBTQ+, and other underrepresented communities.

Building a Stronger Healthcare System for All Canadians

The Canadian Nurses Foundation’s unwavering dedication to advancing education, programming, and research ensures that Canada’s healthcare system benefits from well-trained, innovative, and compassionate nursing professionals. By inspiring and empowering nurses, CNF continues to play a vital role in strengthening healthcare services for everyone in Canada.