Research development, also known in Canada as research facilitation, is a strategic approach used by research institutions globally to enhance research capacity and competitiveness. However, there is an absence of literature describing how the function is structured and implemented in the Canadian context. This descriptive study contributes some of the first empirical findings into the demographics, practice settings, and professional activities of Canadian research development practitioners. A survey was administered to self-identified practitioners affiliated with the two largest professional associations of research management and administration in Canada. Findings show that, similar to the United States, research development is a well-developed function at Canadian research institutions as well as a stable and mature profession. Practitioners exhibit a homogeneous demographic profile, reflective of current trends, and many work in both official languages. The prevalence of postdoctoral education suggests an alternative academic career path. The work performed is largely developmental, spanning the areas of grant development, research communications, research collaborations, development of researchers, and strategic research advancement, along with some research administrative functions. Regardless of research intensity, there is a common set of services offered across institutions, and the most research intensive tend to implement both centralized and devolved service models. This study serves as an initial step in developing a comprehensive understanding of Canadian research development practices, laying a foundation for further investigations.