Since 1962, CNF has invested more than $10 million in scholarships and $9 million in research funding to over 2,000 nurses, nurse researchers and nursing students to advance nursing practice, knowledge and care in Canada.
In 2023, Canadian Nurses Foundation (CNF) launched our Healing Healthcare initiative which focuses on the support and advancement of four important areas of nursing including Post-Secondary Education & Certification (financial support), Healthy Nurses’ initiatives (mental health programs), funding of Nurse-led Research as well as Career Support & Mentorship programs. We are excited to continue with our impact of the past while launching our Healing Healthcare initiative which expands our impact and focuses on the support and advancement of four important areas of nursing that strengthen and improve the health of Canadians. These include:
Within each pillar of Healing Healthcare, funding will be provided to address equity, diversity and inclusion. Our focus will include finding investment opportunities to build funding for individuals from all underrepresented communities in Canada including all Indigenous populations and communities.
Through the generosity of our donors, CNF is proud to support Nursing The Future (NTF). The program is creating solutions to help keep newly graduated nurses engaged and supported through the first 24 months of transition into their nursing careers and that is important for all Canadians.
After more than twenty years of national leadership in supporting nursing students and newly graduated nurses through professional role transition, Nursing the Future (NTF) is concluding its current operational chapter.
Since 2004, NTF has served as a vital bridge for new nurses, educators, and leaders navigating the vulnerable early months of practice. Through evidence-based programming, national partnerships, and a commitment to building a safe “cul-de-sac” for early-career nurses, NTF has supported thousands across Canada in cultivating connection, confidence, and professional identity.
We extend deep gratitude to our partners, including the Canadian Nurses Foundation, the Canadian Nurses Association, the Canadian Nursing Students Association, provincial ministries, healthcare institutions, and countless contributors whose belief in transition-to-practice support made this work possible.
While formal operations conclude, the scholarship, curriculum, intellectual property, and program infrastructure developed over two decades remain intact and available for strategic partnership and collaboration. For further dialogue on potential collaborations, please contact Dr. Duchscher directly: newgraduates@nursingthefuture.ca
We welcome conversations with ministries, health regions, academic institutions, and professional associations interested in advancing initiatives such as:
The mission of healthy and supported professional role transition remains urgent. The work continues, sustained through scholarship, partnership, and shared commitment to the future of Canadian nursing.
With enduring gratitude,
Dr. Judy Duchscher - Founder & CEO, Nursing the Future
Kathryn Corneau - Program Director, Nursing the Future
For our FULL letter of Gratitude CLICK HERE
