Platform
Consulting
Resources
Pricing
grants and funding
By Émile Audet
December 8, 2025

What Can the NovaScience Program Fund?

The NovaScience Program is a pivotal initiative aimed at fostering scientific culture and innovation across Quebec. It supports a diverse range of projects that contribute to the development and dissemination of scientific knowledge, particularly in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Understanding what the program can fund is crucial for organizations considering an application.

Overview of the NovaScience Program

The NovaScience Program is designed to enhance scientific culture and innovation by funding projects that encourage public engagement in science and support educational initiatives. It is open to a variety of applicants, including non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and municipalities in Quebec. For full eligibility details, consult the complete program guide.

Funding Amounts and Rates

The program provides substantial financial support, although specific funding amounts can vary based on the project scope and applicant type. To understand the current rates and how funding is calculated, please visit the complete program guide.

Eligible Expenses

Funding from the NovaScience Program can cover a wide range of expenses associated with eligible projects. These include:

  • Salaries and Wages: Compensation for personnel directly involved in the project.

  • Equipment and Supplies: Costs related to the purchase or rental of equipment necessary for the project.

  • Consulting Fees: Payments for external expertise required to advance project goals.

  • Event Costs: Expenses for organizing and hosting events that promote scientific culture.

  • Travel and Accommodation: Costs incurred for travel necessary to the project, such as attending conferences or meeting collaborators.

These categories illustrate the program's flexibility in supporting diverse project needs. For a detailed list of eligible expenses, refer to the complete program guide.

Ineligible Expenses

While the program is comprehensive, certain expenses are not covered. These typically include:

  • Routine Operational Costs: General operational expenses unrelated to the project.

  • Capital Expenditures: Large-scale investments not directly tied to project activities.

  • Marketing Costs: Expenses for general marketing unrelated to the project's scientific objectives.

Understanding these exclusions is critical to planning your project budget effectively.

Examples of Funded Projects

Projects that have successfully received funding from the NovaScience Program often share common characteristics. For instance:

  • Science Festivals: Events designed to engage the public with interactive exhibits and presentations.

  • Educational Workshops: Programs aimed at enhancing science literacy among students and educators.

  • Research Collaborations: Partnerships between institutions to advance innovative research projects.

These examples highlight the program's emphasis on projects that expand access to scientific knowledge and encourage participation in STEM fields.

Conclusion

The NovaScience Program offers significant funding opportunities for projects that promote scientific culture and innovation in Quebec. By understanding what expenses and activities are eligible for funding, organizations can better prepare their applications and align their projects with program objectives. For comprehensive details on eligible expenses and the application process, be sure to consult the complete program guide.

---

About the author

Émile Audet - Canadian grants specialist

Émile Audet

Canadian grants specialist
Working at helloDarwin for some time now, I'm in charge of providing you with the information you need on government aid. Dedicated to helping companies in Quebec and Canada reach their full potential, I write on the helloDarwin blog about the various programs, allowances and funding available to enable organizations to make their digital transformation through access to federal and provincial support.

See Related Articles

grants and funding

Eligibility Guide for PADAAR Measure 4021: Who Can Apply?

grants and funding

What Can Concertation pour l’emploi Fund?

grants and funding

Who Can Apply for the Active Transportation Fund

Schedule your call today!