Autism Alliance of Canada congratulates the National Autism Network on the election of its first full Board of Directors, a milestone that marks the successful completion of the Network’s start-up phase and the beginning of its next chapter of independence. 

Funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada, the National Autism Network was powered by Autism Alliance of Canada in partnership with The Sinneave Family Foundation to bring together Autistic people, families, subject-matter experts, and community partners to inform the federal government on the implementation of Canada’s Autism Strategy.

Since the launch of the National Autism Network, the Alliance has been proud to play a supporting role in its development, with Jonathan Lai, Executive Director of the Alliance, serving as an Interim Director on the Network’s Board during the start-up phase.

As the National Autism Network moves forward under its newly elected leadership, the Alliance’s role evolves. We will continue to:

• Lead the Strategic Priority Committees (SPCs) that convene Autistic people, families, and policy experts to advance Canada’s autism priorities, and
• Facilitate knowledge mobilization and policy alignment across the Network, governments, and community stakeholders.

The Alliance and the National Autism Network are independent organizations whose work remains closely connected,  grounded in a shared vision of collaboration, inclusion, and systemic impact. Together, we will continue to strengthen the autism sector by advancing evidence-informed policy and amplifying the voices and priorities of Autistic people and their families.

We are proud to have supported the National Autism Network through its start-up phase and look forward to continued collaboration in the years ahead.

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