2026 Exploration Competition

The Exploration stream supports high-risk, high-reward interdisciplinary research that pushes boundaries and defies current paradigms. The program offers up to $125,000 per year for up to two years to research teams.

Who can apply

Open to Canadian researchers affiliated with Canadian institutions. Teams must include a Nominated Principal Investigator (NPI) plus at least one co-PI or co-applicant. Researchers currently on an active Exploration grant cannot apply until their final report is approved. A portion of awards is reserved for Early Career Researchers (ECRs).

Perks & benefits

Webinar sessions (May 2026 for NOI stage, September 2026 for full application stage)
Best Practices in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) guidance documents
Evaluation matrices for applicant reference
Convergence Portal technical support

Key contacts

Online Services Helpdesk
Technical Support
[email protected] 613-995-4273

Sources

Links used by the AI to gather information about this grant.

Funding

CAD 30k – CAD 125k

Deadline

20 October 2026

Opens

16 May 2026

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Eligibility criteria

Research teams must consist of at least two members: a Nominated Principal Investigator (NPI) plus at least one co-PI or co-applicant
NPI, co-PI, and co-applicants must meet specific program eligibility criteria
Participation is limited to only one application per competition as an NPI, co-PI, or co-applicant
If a team member previously held an Exploration grant, their final report must be approved at least one month before the full application deadline
Current NPIs, co-PIs, or co-applicants on an active Exploration grant cannot apply until their final report is officially approved
Applicants must be independent researchers affiliated with Canadian institutions
Projects must involve at least two distinct disciplines that do not traditionally collaborate

2026 Exploration Competition

Perks & benefits

Key contacts

Sources

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