The Rideau Hall Foundation (RHF) in Ottawa, Canada, has announced a C$7.5 million ($5.6 million) gift from the Don and Ruth P. Taylor Family Foundation (TFF).

The commitment will support the nation-building work of the RHF to connect people, causes, and organizations that share a common belief in and commitment to a better Canada for all across five focus areas: the Ingenious+ Youth Innovation Challenge; Governor General’s Innovation Awards; Forum for Young Canadians; Global Excellence Initiative; and a special project fund. Since 2013, the Taylors and their foundation have pledged C$26.8 million ($19.9 million) to RHF.

“This renewed partnership will allow us to nurture and celebrate Canadian excellence, both at home and on the world stage, particularly in the fields of innovation and research,” said RHF president and CEO Teresa Marques. “The Taylors’ continued generosity will also permit the RHF to embark on new work to build pride in what it means to be Canadian. And given increasing polarization throughout the country, this work could not come at a more important time.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Keeleigh)