Addressing the recent election coverage regarding Century Initiative
Read announcementCentury Initiative is a non-partisan charity working to secure Canada’s long-term success. We believe in a future where Canadians enjoy more opportunity, more innovation, and a growing economy that benefits everyone. Our goal? Help ensure Canada continues to be one of the best places in the world to live—now and for generations to come.
Canada is at a crossroads. We’re facing a combination of rising living costs, labour shortages, housing pressures, and growing global uncertainty. At the same time, our population is aging—by 2036, one in four Canadians will be over the age of 65—and we have one of the lowest birth rates in the world. Fewer people are entering the workforce. Without action, we risk slower economic growth, reduced global influence, and increasing strain on the public services Canadians rely on.
Century Initiative is focused on Canada’s future. To stay competitive and prosperous, Canada needs a larger, well-supported population. More people means a stronger workforce, a more dynamic economy, and more resources for vital services like healthcare and education.
But growth needs to be done right. That’s why we’ve been critical of temporary, stopgap immigration programs. Instead, we advocate for a long-term approach—one that attracts skilled immigrants who can meet Canada’s economic needs, supported by a national plan that links permanent immigration to smart investments in housing, infrastructure, and public services—so everyone benefits.
Immigration: Growing for the sake of growing was never our goal. We support a responsible, sustainable population growth rate of 1.15% to 1.25%—in line with Canada’s historical trends. Our chief concern is that failing to grow will hurt Canada’s long-term economic success. Our goal of 100 million people by 2100 often gets attention, but it’s not about the number. It’s about what smart growth enables: a strong economy, vibrant communities, and a higher quality of life.
Urban Development & Infrastructure: We need cities that work for people. That means building affordable housing, expanding public transit, and improving infrastructure. When we plan for growth, we reduce costs, lower our environmental impact, and build vibrant, connected communities.
Early Childhood Supports: We want to support families in their choices to have children while participating in the workforce. Strong policies like improved family leave, a national childcare system, and access to quality education are critical to doing this well.
Employment and Entrepreneurship: A strong economy is powered by people. We champion investment in research, support for entrepreneurs, and opportunities for underrepresented groups to help Canadian businesses lead on the world stage.
Education: Good schools build a strong future. We support investments in education so that all Canadians—present and future—have the skills to succeed in a fast-changing world.
Through Century Initiative’s research, convening, and outreach we have helped advance:
Canada’s future depends on bold, forward-thinking strategies to boost innovation, address labour and demographic challenges, and build a resilient economy that can withstand global instability. Affordability and housing issues must be tackled head-on to ensure Canadians can thrive—and to preserve support for the immigration that Canada needs. In an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape, a strong, inclusive economy is key to protecting our sovereignty and ensuring long-term prosperity.
That’s the work Century Initiative is dedicated to leading.
