Canada West Foundation

The Canada West Foundation (CWF) is a non-profit, conservative, and non-partisan public policy think tank based in Calgary, Alberta. Established on December 31, 1970, it focuses on issues affecting Western Canada, specifically the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, as well as matters of national significance in Canada.

Mission and Focus

The foundation's mission is to provide research-based policy solutions that enhance the prosperity, sustainability, and quality of life for citizens in Western Canada. It seeks to educate Canadians about the contributions and aspirations of Western provinces through rigorous research and stakeholder engagement.

Research Centres and Policy Areas

Since a comprehensive program review in 2012-2013, the Canada West Foundation has concentrated its work around three core research areas, each led by a dedicated centre:

• Natural Resources Centre: Addresses challenges and opportunities related to forestry, agri-food, mining, oil, and natural gas industries, focusing on sustainable resource management and public support for these sectors.
• Trade & Investment Centre: Explores issues around getting Western Canadian products to global markets, improving trade policies, and developing reliable trade infrastructure and logistics systems.
• Human Capital Centre: Focuses on developing a skilled and versatile workforce by enhancing education, innovation, productivity, and labour market policies.

These centres collaborate to find practical solutions that support economic growth and competitiveness in the region.

Activities

The Canada West Foundation conducts in-depth research and produces ground-breaking policy reports on topics critical to the West. It convenes political, academic, business, and community leaders through seminars, forums, conferences, and roundtables to encourage dialogue and collective problem-solving. The foundation also disseminates its findings widely through publications, media appearances, op-eds, blogs, and social media, reaching millions annually.

Funding and Transparency

As a registered Canadian charity (Business Registration Number: 118828698RR0001), the foundation relies on funding from a diverse array of sources, including governments, corporations, foundations, and individual donors. It maintains a strong commitment to transparency by acknowledging its supporters and fostering an engaged public policy community.

History and Founders

The foundation was created through the vision and support of prominent Western Canadian entrepreneurs and philanthropists, including George Maxwell Bell, Arthur J.E. Child, and Frederick C. Mannix. Each played a key role in shaping the organization's focus and growth into one of Canada’s premier policy research institutions.

The Canada West Foundation remains the only think tank dedicated exclusively to Western Canadian issues, advancing trusted policy advice to strengthen the region and contribute to Canada's broader economic and social well-being.