NSERC is Canada's national instrument for making strategic investments in training and research in the natural sciences and engineering (NSE). These investments support university-based basic and project research, they support the education of young people in that research and they encourage and facilitate links between the universities, colleges, governments and the private sector. Through its investments, NSERC builds Canada's capabilities in science and technology and supports innovation that drives the economy and improves the quality of life of all Canadians. Annually, NSERC invests over $645 million in three core priorities - people, discovery and innovation - at Canadian universities and colleges.