Who Can Apply for Mitacs Accelerate? Eligibility Criteria Explained

Mitacs Accelerate is a prominent Canadian research funding program designed to foster collaboration between academia and industry. It supports research-based internships that connect students and researchers with organizations looking to solve complex challenges. For those interested in participating, understanding the eligibility criteria is crucial.

Overview of Mitacs Accelerate

The Mitacs Accelerate program provides financial support to collaborative research projects involving post-secondary students or postdoctoral fellows, academic supervisors, and partner organizations. Eligible projects can receive a leveraged funding of $15,000 CAD per four- or six-month internship. This initiative is open to both for-profit and non-profit organizations, offering significant benefits such as increased R&D capabilities and access to skilled research talent. For full eligibility details, consult the complete program guide.

Applicant Type Requirements

Eligible Organizations

Mitacs Accelerate is open to a broad range of organizations including:

• For-profit companies: Businesses seeking to enhance their research capacities through collaboration with academic experts.

• Non-profit organizations: Entities looking to leverage academic partnerships for innovative solutions.

Industry and Sector Considerations

While the program is broadly inclusive, specific sectors such as technology, manufacturing, and agriculture often find great value in these collaborations. However, all industries are encouraged to apply if they can benefit from academic collaboration.

Geographic Eligibility

Mitacs Accelerate is available to organizations across Canada. Whether based in urban centers or rural areas, eligible organizations must be prepared to host interns and facilitate research activities within the country. For additional geographic considerations, please visit the complete program guide.

Project and Activity Requirements

Projects under the Mitacs Accelerate program must focus on research and innovation. Suitable projects typically involve:

• Applied research: Projects that address real-world industry challenges.

• Innovation development: Initiatives aimed at creating new products or processes.

These projects must engage participants in meaningful research activities that contribute to their professional development. For more details, refer to the complete program guide.

Financial and Operational Criteria

Organizations must demonstrate financial stability and operational capacity to support the internship. This includes committing to the program's co-funding model, where partner contributions are leveraged with Mitacs funding.

Ineligible Applicants

Certain entities may not qualify for Mitacs Accelerate, such as:

• Organizations with unresolved financial liabilities.

• Entities primarily focused on lobbying or political activities.

To see a comprehensive list of ineligible applicants, check the complete program guide.

Conclusion

Mitacs Accelerate offers a valuable opportunity for organizations seeking to harness academic expertise for research and development. By understanding the eligibility criteria and preparing accordingly, organizations can effectively position themselves to benefit from this esteemed program. For complete and detailed eligibility requirements, please consult the complete program guide.