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Canada Foundation for Innovation - John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF)

Q: What is the Canada Foundation for Innovation - John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF)?

The John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF) provides vital funding to research institutions aiming to strengthen their research infrastructure and attract leading researchers. The program supports projects requesting up to $800,000 with a cap of $2 million in total project costs. This initiative enhances research capabilities by funding the acquisition of essential research tools, equipment, and infrastructure, fostering innovation and excellence in research activities. Institutions eligible for this funding include universities and related research organizations engaged in cutting-edge research aligned with national priorities. The program's collaborative structure allows institutions to combine funding with other governmental partner organizations, thereby increasing the scope and impact of research initiatives. The available funding streams include unaffiliated projects and partnership streams connected to other research support programs like CRC, CERC, NSERC, and SSHRC. Successful applicants must demonstrate the potential for scientific excellence, the capacity to manage the funds responsibly, and the capacity to deliver impactful research outcomes.

Q: What expenses are eligible under Canada Foundation for Innovation - John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF)?

Acquiring advanced research equipment and tools. Developing infrastructure to support innovative research projects. Supporting activities to recruit or retain outstanding researchers.

Q: Who can I contact for more information about the Canada Foundation for Innovation - John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF)?

You can contact Leaders Opportunity Fund (LOF).

Q: Where is the Canada Foundation for Innovation - John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF) available?

The Canada Foundation for Innovation - John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF) program is available across Canada.

Last Update: March 9, 2026

Canada

Funding for research infrastructure to attract top researchers and enhance competitiveness

Grant and Funding

Leaders Opportunity Fund

Canada Foundation for Innovation

Overview

Institutions eligible for this funding include universities and related research organizations engaged in cutting-edge research aligned with national priorities. The program's collaborative structure allows institutions to combine funding with other governmental partner organizations, thereby increasing the scope and impact of research initiatives. The available funding streams include unaffiliated projects and partnership streams connected to other research support programs like CRC, CERC, NSERC, and SSHRC. Successful applicants must demonstrate the potential for scientific excellence, the capacity to manage the funds responsibly, and the capacity to deliver impactful research outcomes.

At a glance

Funding available

Financing goals

Integrate new technologies

Develop strategic partnerships

Research and experimental development

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 800,000 $

Timeline

Unspecified

Eligible candidates

Eligible Industries

All industries

Location

Canada

Legal structures

Non-profit

Annual revenue

All revenue ranges

Organisation size

All organization sizes

Audience

All groups

Non-profit candidates

Sector of operation

Research

Target groups

All the groups

Revenue structures

100% donations / grants
Mixed revenue (<50% earned)

Scope

Provincial

Activities funded

Acquiring advanced research equipment and tools.
Developing infrastructure to support innovative research projects.
Supporting activities to recruit or retain outstanding researchers.

Examples of admissible projects:

Establishing an innovative manufacturing line to boost production efficiency.

Eligibility

Who is eligible?

Universities and research institutions involved in scientific research.
Organizations aiming to recruit leading researchers.

Who is not eligible

For-profit companies or commercial ventures not directly engaged in research activities.
Organizations without eligible research infrastructure projects.

Eligible geographic areas

Canada-based institutions eligible to participate in research funding programs.

Selection criteria

Innovation and originality in project proposal.
Feasibility and clarity of project plan.
Alignment with strategic research priorities.
Potential impact and research excellence.

How to apply

Create an account on the funding portal.Prepare a detailed project proposal including objectives, scope, and expected outcomes.Gather supporting documentation such as project budgets, infrastructure details, and institutional credentials.Submit the completed application via the online portal before the deadline.Await notification of the review outcome and follow the instructions for funding disbursement if approved.

Apply to this program

Frequently Asked Questions about the Canada Foundation for Innovation - John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF) Program

Here are answers to the most common questions about the Canada Foundation for Innovation - John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF). This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.

What is the Canada Foundation for Innovation - John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF)?

The John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF) provides vital funding to research institutions aiming to strengthen their research infrastructure and attract leading researchers. The program supports projects requesting up to $800,000 with a cap of $2 million in total project costs. This initiative enhances research capabilities by funding the acquisition of essential research tools, equipment, and infrastructure, fostering innovation and excellence in research activities. Institutions eligible for this funding include universities and related research organizations engaged in cutting-edge research aligned with national priorities. The program's collaborative structure allows institutions to combine funding with other governmental partner organizations, thereby increasing the scope and impact of research initiatives. The available funding streams include unaffiliated projects and partnership streams connected to other research support programs like CRC, CERC, NSERC, and SSHRC. Successful applicants must demonstrate the potential for scientific excellence, the capacity to manage the funds responsibly, and the capacity to deliver impactful research outcomes.