From its beginning, CIHR has developed a very broad, inclusive approach to partnership. The multidisciplinary research environment we encourage helps to bring together a wide variety of organizations. Partner organizations include other federal government departments and agencies, provincial funding agencies and relevant provincial and territorial departments, health charities, non-governmental organizations, industry, as well as international organizations. (For a sample of our current partners, please see Current CIHR Partners). Partnerships are mostly formed by CIHR's Institutes, however, there are a number that are managed by the Partnership Branch at CIHR and are some of CIHR central programs. Partnerships can include both financial and non-financial contributions. Non-financial contributions can include access to professional networks, areas of expertise, shared tools and documentation and in-kind resources. Whatever the contribution, CIHR partnerships are true collaborations - driven by shared goals and a desire to improve health and quality of life.