Who Can Apply for Mitacs Accelerate: Eligibility Criteria Explained

Mitacs Accelerate is a premier Canadian program designed to foster collaboration between industry and academia, facilitating research and innovation. But who exactly can apply for this opportunity? This guide will clarify the eligibility criteria for organizations and individuals interested in participating in Mitacs Accelerate.

Program Overview

Mitacs Accelerate connects post-secondary students, postdoctoral fellows, industry partners, and academic researchers to solve complex challenges through research-based internships. The program offers funding starting at $15,000 CAD per internship unit, providing substantial financial support for research projects of four to six months.

Applicant Type Requirements

Academic Supervisors

Eligible academic supervisors must be faculty members at a Canadian institution capable of holding Tri-Agency funds. They play a crucial role in guiding research projects and ensuring academic integrity.

Partner Organizations

Eligible partner organizations include:

• For-profit corporations receiving over 50% of their funds from non-government sources.

• Not-for-profit organizations, municipalities, or hospitals within Canada.

• International corporations may partner with a Canadian organization.

Interns

Intern eligibility includes:

• Canadian citizens, permanent residents, international students with a student visa, or international postdoctoral fellows with a valid work permit.

• Must be 18 years or older, enrolled at a Mitacs partner institution, or a recent graduate within two years of graduation.

• Interns must not have been full-time employees at the partner organization before applying.

Size & Scale Criteria

Mitacs Accelerate does not impose strict size or revenue thresholds on participating organizations. However, for-profit partners need to prove non-governmental funding sources exceed 50%.

Geographic Eligibility

The program is open to Canadian organizations and institutions. While international partners can engage, a Canadian partner must be involved in all projects to ensure local benefit.

Project & Activity Requirements

Projects must focus on research and development, aiming to solve industry challenges through innovative solutions. Interns should split their time equally between the academic institution and the partner organization.

Financial & Operational Criteria

Organizations must contribute $7,500 CAD per internship, matching Mitacs' funding to form a $15,000 CAD research award. Postdoctoral projects require a $10,000 CAD contribution, forming a $20,000 CAD award.

Ineligible Applicants

• Organizations predominantly funded by government sources.

• Individuals who have full-time employment at the partner organization are ineligible to apply as interns.

Special Cases & Exceptions

• Part-time students may qualify if they meet specific conditions, such as being covered by their institution’s insurance.

• Recent graduates can apply within two years of completing their degree.

Self-Assessment Checklist

• Are you a recognized Canadian academic institution?

• Does your organization have a non-governmental funding majority?

• Is your project research-focused?

Conclusion

Understanding the eligibility criteria for Mitacs Accelerate is crucial for a successful application. Whether you represent an organization or are an aspiring intern, ensuring you meet these requirements will set you on the path to contributing to Canada's research landscape. Contact a Mitacs Advisor to verify specific eligibility details.