Applied Research and Development grants

---

Overview

Applied Research and Development (ARD) grants support research and development (R&D) projects led by college researchers in partnership with private, public or not-for-profit organizations while encouraging collaboration with universities and/or other colleges. This opportunity allows the development and strengthening of research links and collaborations between different institutions and/or partners that have a common goal of creating economic, social and/or environmental benefits while contributing to the research ecosystem continuum. The partner research goals can drive and define the broad spectrum of capacities necessary from one or more institutions, depending on the needs and availabilities, while allowing the project to be led by an eligible Canadian college.

Projects funded by ARD grants will:

• provide partner organizations with access to the unique knowledge, expertise and capabilities available at Canadian colleges and universities
• train college students in essential technical skills required by organizations in the private, public or not-for-profit sectors
• provide benefits–economic, environmental, health or social–to the partner organization(s) and Canada
• allow a wide range of collaborations between different institutions and/or types of partners

Direct project costs are shared by the partner organization(s) and funding agency. Projects may range from one to three years. Universities or other colleges may participate in the project as co-applicants and receive a portion of the funding from the primary administering institution.

ARD projects can focus on any point in the research-to-innovation spectrum. All proposals must clearly provide evidence of strong partnerships, detailed planning and sound budget justification. Proposals must detail underlying assumptions, intended approaches, milestones and deliverables.

Who can apply?

Canadian colleges (including CEGEPs and polytechnics) eligible to administer grants from at least one of the three federal granting agencies can apply. Colleges apply on behalf of their researchers and the partner organization(s).

To apply, colleges must have at least one partner organization (in the private, public or not-for-profit sectors) whose cash contribution is recognized for cost sharing with NSERC.

For a list of Canadian colleges currently eligible to apply, see the list of eligible institutions for the agency you are applying to (NSERC, CIHR or SSHRC). To become an eligible institution, see the Institutional eligibility requirements and the frequently asked questions on institutional eligibility.

What's next?
Activities supported