In May of 2000, the PEI HRI was established at the University of Prince Edward Island with the support of the University, the PEI Provincial Government, and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. The Institute brings together health researchers and interested individuals from the University, community groups, government, and the health care community on PEI to develop the Island's health research capacity.

A vibrant and successful health research community on Prince Edward Island creates new knowledge that contributes to the health of Islanders, as well as Canadians in general. The economic activity generated by a thriving research community also contributes to the increased health of the PEI economy.