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The consequence? A loss of critical innovations that could transform healthcare.

�鶹��ý’s is taking a stand with the campaign, a bold initiative launched in recognition of International Women’s Day. This campaign is not just about raising money—it’s about recognizing the untapped potential of women-led research and ensuring that groundbreaking medical advancements aren’t lost due to systemic funding gaps.

The funding gap: What’s at stake?

Research shows that female scientists often receive less funding despite producing high-impact research. A recent Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) study revealed that women applicants were awarded smaller grants than their male counterparts, limiting the scope and scale of their research projects.

The launch comes at a critical time when diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in academia and beyond are facing renewed scrutiny and challenges, making it even more vital to ensure that women in research are not left behind.

“Women in medicine and science are leading groundbreaking research, but systemic funding disparities continue to prevent equitable access to training and resources,” says Dr. Jeanette Boudreau, Associate Professor at �鶹��ý’s Faculty of Medicine and Scientific Director of the Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute.

“EDIA initiatives aim to achieve parity, but the systematic biases and assumptions that allowed the disparities to establish in the first place persist,” says Dr. Boudreau. “There is much more work to be done to achieve true equity. Through this initiative, we’re not only raising awareness but also creating tangible opportunities for women in research to thrive.”

The Girls Just Wanna Have Funding campaign features exclusive merchandise, including t-shirts, mugs, notebooks, and tote bags, with proceeds going directly to the newly established Women in Medical Research Fund. Faculty, students, and supporters are encouraged to wear the gear, share their stories on social media, and spark conversations about gender equity in research funding.

The power of equity in research

The Girls Just Wanna Have Funding campaign aims to bridge this funding gap by establishing a new International Women’s Day Research Fund. The initiative seeks to channel resources into female-led research projects, ensuring that women scientists have the financial backing needed to drive discoveries forward.

Proceeds from the —featuring bold statement t-shirts, coffee mugs, tote bags, and notebooks—will directly support this fund, empowering women researchers to continue their vital work. Supporters can also make a gift to the directly.

An investment in the future of medicine

This campaign comes at a critical time when diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are facing setbacks. Ensuring that women in research receive the support they need is more important than ever. By purchasing merchandise, sharing the campaign on social media, or donating directly, supporters can help shape the future of healthcare and medical discovery.

Given that diverse research teams generate more innovative solutions and broader perspectives, the underfunding of women researchers means the world is missing out on potential life-saving discoveries.

"We know that diverse perspectives drive better science. When women struggle to secure funding, we all lose out on critical discoveries that could improve health outcomes,” says Associate Dean of Research with �鶹��ý’s Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Eileen Denovan-Wright.

“This campaign is about changing that—by investing in female researchers, we’re investing in the future of medicine."