In Budget 2018, the Government of Canada called for changes to streamline and modernize programs in support of research. It also proposed an historic investment of nearly $4 billion in Canada’s scientists and researchers.

The government’s major investment includes the creation of a New Frontiers in Research Fund, which will support international, interdisciplinary, fast-breaking and higher-risk research. The Fund, valued at $275 million over five years and $65 million per year thereafter, will be open to researchers and networks of researchers across all disciplines.

Funding for the Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCE) program will be gradually transferred to this new fund over the next several years. During this transition period:

Successful applicants in the current NCE program and Knowledge Mobilization competitions will be awarded up to five-year non-renewable grants.
The networks anticipating a renewal competition in 2018-2019 will be invited to apply for a final three-year grant.
Currently-funded networks will continue to be funded until the end date of their grant. No further opportunities will be available through the NCE Program.

The government recognizes that NCEs have made significant contributions to the research and innovation landscape. As reflected in its historic investments in research, the government remains committed to continuing to support Canadian researchers and collaborative networks of researchers.