Over $5 million to accelerate cancer research and innovation in Quebec - Oncopole strengthens its leadership role in the oncology ecosystem with the support of numerous partners
MONTREAL and BOSTON, June 5, 2023 /CNW/ - Oncopole, Fonds de recherche du Québec - Santé (FRQS) cancer division, is proud to announce major investments that bolster its unique public-private partnership model dedicated to the fight against cancer. Building on its dynamism and ability to mobilize stakeholders in the life sciences community, Oncopole will continue to pursue its mission thanks to a $3 million reinvestment from founding partner Merck Canada.
Furthermore, today Oncopole welcomes two world leaders in the pharmaceutical industry, GSK and Pfizer Canada, who have committed to investing $1 million and up to $1.5 million respectively for oncology research. These new partnerships will support the development of programs to mobilize financial and human resources for research into targeted and promising oncology treatments.
"We are very excited to be able to count on new partners," said Carole Jabet, Director of Oncopole and Scientific Director of the FRQS. "These investments will enable us to accelerate the collaborative research essential to making a real difference in the lives of people affected by cancer."
The new investments were announced at the BIO International Convention held in Boston from June 5 to 8, in the presence of Oncopole representatives; the Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy (MEIE), Mr. Pierre Fitzgibbon; partners Merck Canada, GSK and Pfizer Canada; along with several other life sciences companies.
"Merck Canada is pleased to announce its renewed commitment to Oncopole in support of oncology research. As a founding member, Merck Canada is proud to have participated in the creation of Oncopole and to continue its involvement in this initiative for oncology research, development, and investment, which has the potential to make a real difference in the lives of patients," said Jennifer Chan, Vice-President, Policy and External Affairs, Merck Canada.
"GSK is proud to support Oncopole and its synergistic role in oncology innovation. Through our partnership, we want to help improve and accelerate access to the latest advances for patients," said Ranya El-Masri, Vice President, Government Affairs and Market Access, GSK Canada. "Innovation is at the heart of GSK's mission, and strategic partnerships are essential to opening up new avenues of discovery, to stay ahead of cancer together."
"It is vital that all stakeholders, scientists, healthcare professionals and leaders in the healthcare system support research that addresses the unmet needs of people living with cancer. We are proud to partner with Oncopole to actively contribute to the development of innovative cancer therapies," said Karine Grand'Maison, Vice-President, Access and Government Relations, Pfizer Canada.
This financial support underlines the growing confidence in Oncopole, the FRQS's cancer division, a public-private consortium whose mission is to act as a catalyst for action in Quebec's oncology research and innovation ecosystem.
Thanks to the support of founding partner Merck Canada and the Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy, Oncopole has successfully mobilized key players in oncology research in Quebec since 2017. The investments announced today by GSK and Pfizer Canada will enable Oncopole to pursue its vision by focusing on strategic investments and partnerships that support innovation for the benefit of patients.