CFI's international funds taking shape

The CFI is finalizing implementation plans for its two-part, $200-million international fund . Following a March 7 board of director's meeting, the $100-million international joint venture fund is preparing to solicit letters of intent. CFI president

Dr David Strangway says he expects three or four major projects will ultimately be funded, and the S&T community is being encouraged to create consortia with Canadian and international partners. There is no matching provision for the infrastructure portion of the projects, which will be located in Canada. Also being finalized for implementation is the $100-million international access fund, designed to give Canadian researchers access to international facilities.

The only remaining obstacle is passage of the legislation enabling CFI to participate in international projects and joint ven-tures. That's expected by June/01.