Founded in 1994, CPRN produced several hundred research documents on a wide variety of public policy issues, including citizenship; diversity and Canadian values; productivity and skills; health and an aging population; and the environment.

According to a federal government external evaluation from 2005, CPRN was "somewhat unique among [Canadian] think tanks" having developed expertise in health, work and social policy "with a special niche in the area of systematic public engagement".

"[4] They further note that CPRN was once Canada's most influential social policy think tank based on website visibility and influence.

Dr. Sharon Manson Singer was the most recent President of Canadian Policy Research Networks.

"[10] CPRN had provided original evidence-based research, public policy briefs and recommendations, deliberative dialogues and citizen engagement, stakeholder engagement with business, community and government leaders, and knowledge translation for important public policy issues.