Who founded MaRS?

These visionary individuals and organizations—each concerned about Canada’s performance in the global innovation economy—contributed to the creation of MaRS. Partnerships continue to be critical to our development. MaRS works closely with individuals and organizations that share our mission.

MaRS College of Founders
($1 million +)
AIC Limited
AstraZeneca Canada Inc.
Mr. Lawrence S. Bloomberg
Cancer Care Ontario
Dr. John R. Evans
Eli Lilly Canada Inc.
Mr. Arthur S. Labatt
MDS Inc.
Mr. Peter Munk
Mr. Joseph L. Rotman
RBC Financial Group
Mr. Allan Slaight
Mr. William Wilder

Early Supporters
Federal Government ($20 million)
Ontario Government (initial investment of $20 million)
TBCC ($9 million)
Ontario Innovation Trust ($10 million)
City of Toronto ($4.5 million in kind)

Partners ($500,000+)
Mr. Wilf Lewitt

Builders ($250,000+)
NPS Allelix

Universities and hospitals
University of Toronto ($5 million)

Builders ($50,000 plus)
Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care
St. Michael’s Hospital
Toronto Rehabilitation Institute
Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto
Research and International Relations, University of Toronto