Federal laboratories are research facilities operated by federal government departments and agencies across Canada. These include National Research Council laboratories, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada research centres, Natural Resources Canada research facilities, Environment and Climate Change Canada science centres, and defence research establishments. Federal laboratories conduct research in areas of national interest: health, agriculture, energy, environment, defence, and various industrial applications. For municipalities hosting federal laboratories, these facilities provide high-quality employment, attract related businesses and talent, and contribute to local innovation ecosystems. Like other federal properties, laboratories don't pay municipal property taxes but contribute through payments in lieu of taxes. Federal decisions about laboratory locations, expansions, or closures can significantly impact local communities. Some federal laboratories collaborate with nearby universities and private sector partners, creating research clusters that benefit regional economies.