DRDC Defence Research Partnerships

Who is eligible?

Eligible applicants for this grant are expected to come from diverse areas related to science, technology, defence, public safety, and security. The scope of the grant allows for partnerships with various types of organizations.

• Industry partners, including small, medium, and large enterprises, not-for-profits, and industry associations, who contribute innovative ideas and equipment solutions relied upon by the Canadian Armed Forces and the Department of National Defence.
• Academic institutions such as universities, colleges, and academic associations that engage in collaborative science and technology objectives or strategic partnerships.
• Other Canadian government departments and agencies, as well as provincial, territorial, and municipal governments, that collaborate on scientific projects or joint challenges.
• International allies and arrangements like the Technical Cooperation Program and the NATO Science and Technology Organization for exchange of defence knowledge and resources, and facilitation of interoperability and collaborative projects.

Who is not eligible

There are certain types of companies that are not eligible for this grant:

• Companies that do not align with the defence and security research objectives
• Companies that do not have the necessary expertise or capabilities to contribute to the research initiatives

Eligible expenses

This grant encourages collaboration for defence and security research between different sectors in Canada. Eligible activities mainly involve partnerships and initiatives that contribute to the advancement and application of science and technology in the defence and security fields.

• Unclassified university-based research for developing non-weapon specific technologies under the Alliance Grant.
• Personnel recruitment and selection, operational effectiveness, and social processes in the workplace research initiatives supported by the Department of National Defence Research Initiative.

There are evaluation and selection criteria for the Department of National Defence (DND) Research Initiative grant.

• Alignment with priority research topics:
• Innovative approach and potential impact:
• Feasibility and methodology:
• Expertise and track record of the research team:
• Value for money and budget justification:

• Step 1: Identify the Relevant Grant Program
  • Review the various grant and collaboration opportunities available through DRDC and its partners, including NSERC and SSHRC initiatives.
  • Ensure your project aligns with the focus areas or specific program requirements.
• Step 2: Prepare Application Package
  • Gather essential documents such as a project proposal, budget estimate, and any scientific or technical reports supporting your initiative.
  • If applying for a program involving NSERC, prepare a two-page statement of interest if required.
  • Update your resume detailing relevant experience and credentials.
• Step 3: Submit Application via Email
  • Send your application package, including your resume and statement of interest (if required), via email to the appropriate contact as stipulated by the specific program.
  • For the Research Trainee Matching Program or Joint Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, use "DRDC.RDDC-NSERC.CRSNG.programs@forces.gc.ca" as the email address.
  • Use the specified email subject format (e.g., "NSERC RTMP application – DRDC Atlantic Research Centre – J. Doe") for proper identification.
• Step 4: Await Feedback and Potential Engagement
  • Wait for notification from DRDC or the respective body on the status of your application.
  • If selected, engage in discussions to clarify project details and collaboration terms.

Here are additional relevant details for grants and partnerships with DRDC:

• DRDC is not actively seeking open submissions, and prioritizes responses due to a high volume of S&T solution requests.
• DRDC leverages technology development through licensing and other mechanisms to enhance Canada's security and defence industry.
• Technology transfer activities aim to meet the Canadian Armed Forces' supply chain requirements.
• Partnership opportunities include collaborations with academia, industry, Canadian government agencies, and international allies.
• DRDC has specialized facilities and expertise that make it a preferred destination for collaborative research.
• Employee exchanges with industry through Interchange Canada support information transfer and professional development.