The Government of Canada has announced new funding and launched a call for proposals to strengthen search and rescue operations across the country, as climate-related emergencies and challenging terrain continue to increase the complexity of rescue missions.
The announcement was made by Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada. She introduced the latest call for proposals under the Search and Rescue New Initiatives Fund (SAR NIF), a programme aimed at improving the effectiveness, efficiency, innovation and overall coordination of search and rescue activities nationwide.
Through the SAR NIF programme, up to $6.5 million is provided each year to support new and ongoing projects that enhance prevention measures and strengthen responses to emergency calls for assistance. The funding helps organizations develop better tools, training and systems to ensure responders can reach people in distress more quickly and safely.
In addition to launching the new call for proposals, the government announced a one-time investment of $2.86 million to support seven projects selected through the fund. These initiatives focus on improving search and rescue training, strengthening leadership and governance structures, and supporting volunteer recruitment and retention. The funding will also help communities expand their response capacity and develop tools that improve coordination and prevention efforts.
Officials say the initiative reflects Canada’s commitment to working closely with provinces, territories, communities, specialized organizations and volunteers to reduce the risk of injury and loss of life while ensuring timely and effective emergency response across the country.
