An organization like the C.D. Howe is extremely important for providing alternative ways of looking at public policy.
The completion of fundraising for the $2.1 million Endowment for Special Studies marks a key stage in the Institute’s evolution as “a privately funded public good.”
When noted philanthropist Roger Phillips announced a $1 million gift to establish the Roger Phillips Scholar in Social Policy at the 2006 tribute dinner for outgoing CEO Jack Mintz, he initiated a new era of individual philanthropy at the Institute.
Inspired by this gift, Institute Board member and philanthropist Alf Wirth established a challenge grant of $1.05 million to encourage individuals, through matching donations, to increase the Institute’s core research capacity by creating an Endowment for Special Studies.
More than 25 individuals from coast to coast supported the campaign. A $400,000 gift from Wendy Dobson, distinguished economics professor at the Rotman School of Management and a former President of the C.D. Howe Institute, pushed it over the top.
Alf Wirth said that all of the endowment’s supporters have played a major role in strengthening the Institute’s philanthropic culture.
“People overwhelmingly see the C.D. Howe Institute as an organization funded by corporations,” he said. “And corporate support is key to the Institute’s policy work. But corporations cannot support the full spectrum of public policy research, and so additional, independent sources of financing are necessary,” he said.
The Institute is critical to fostering high living standards for future generations.
The C.D. Howe Institute provides outstanding, independent, peer-reviewed, non-partisan research for crafters of policy.
The work done by the C.D. Howe Institute provides both policymakers and the public with valuable information to make the correct choices. This is why I support the Institute
I hope this gift inspires others to make personal contributions to the Institute’s future.