Sponsor
Tri-Agency: NSERC, SSHRC, CIHR
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Tri-agency Guide on Financial Administration
TAGFA Summary of Changes
Description
As of April 1, 2026, the federal research funding agencies (CIHR, NSERC, and SSHRC) have released an updated version of the Tri‑Agency Guide on Financial Administration (TAGFA).
This update reflects the Government of Canada’s Buy Canadian Policy, which encourages federal departments and agencies to prioritize Canadian suppliers and Canadian‑made goods and services where feasible. As part of this government‑wide initiative, the Tri‑Agencies have incorporated new guidance into TAGFA related to purchasing expectations under Tri‑Agency‑funded research.
For the research community, this means that the agencies are signaling a stronger emphasis on considering Canadian options when acquiring materials, equipment, or services, while recognizing that many specialized research tools and services may not be available domestically. The updated guidance preserves appropriate flexibility where Canadian suppliers cannot meet research needs.
Overall, the TAGFA update is intended to support responsible stewardship of public funds, alignment with federal procurement priorities, and continued access to the resources required to conduct high‑quality, internationally competitive research.