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Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN)
Private-sector-led research network funding
Offered by
Funding available
$ 1,200,000
Deadline
February 15, 2013
Location
Canada
Overview
This program supports private-sector-led research networks in Canada. It funds collaborative research and commercialization activities focused on government priority sectors, with up to $12 million available per year and up to five years of funding.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Develop a new program or service
- Enhance an existing program
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 1,200,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Funds Providers
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
- Business Associations
Target groups
- All the groups
Revenue structures
- Mixed revenue (50%+ earned)
- Fee-for-service model
Scope
- National
- International
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Collaborative private-sector research networks
- Research commercialization and market-oriented development
- Technology transfer and applied research activities
- Training of graduate students and postdoctoral fellows
Documents Needed
- Application form
- Letter of presentation
- Letters of support from industry partners
- Curriculum vitae and biographies of key people
- Confirmation letters for partner contributions
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Canadian private-sector consortia
- Industry associations and business networks
- Existing or newly formed non-profit consortiums
Who is not eligible
- Universities as lead applicants
- Government departments and Crown corporations
- Municipal, provincial and territorial government bodies
Eligible expenses
- Research salaries, equipment, supplies, travel and dissemination costs
- Administration, networking and communication costs
- Commercialization costs such as market studies, IP protection and prototypes
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Capital expenses beyond the equipment limits
- Direct funding for government researchers or government laboratories
- Activities outside Canada funded by RCE-E funds
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada
Selection criteria
- Clear sector vision and major R&D and commercialization challenges
- Strength of public-private collaboration and industry relevance
- Ability to attract investment and new partners
- Quality and cohesion of the research program
- Commercialization pathway and intellectual property approach
How to apply
- Step 1
- Submit the letter of intent
- Wait for eligibility screening and review
- Step 2
- Receive an invitation to apply if shortlisted
- Prepare the full application and supporting documents
- Step 3
- Submit the detailed application electronically by the deadline
- Undergo expert panel review and board recommendation
- Step 4
- Receive the final funding decision
- Sign the funding agreement before funding is released
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are first screened in a two-step competition process.
- Shortlisted applications are reviewed by expert panels and then by the Private Sector Advisory Board.
- The Steering Committee makes the final funding decision.
- A funding agreement must be signed before the first payment.
- Annual progress reporting and final reporting are required.
Additional information
- New networks must be led by the private sector.
- The consortium must be eligible to become a Canadian non-profit corporation before funding is signed.
- Industry partners should confirm support through letters of commitment.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN) Program
What is the Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN)?
This program supports private-sector-led research networks in Canada. It funds collaborative research and commercialization activities focused on government priority sectors, with up to $12 million available per year and up to five years of funding.
How much funding can be received?
Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN) Funds up to 50% of admissible expenses, capped at $1,200,000 per project.
Who is eligible for the Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN) program?
To be eligible for the Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN) program, you must:
Private-sector-led consortium
Canadian non-profit eligible to incorporate
Research aligned with priority sectors
What expenses are eligible under Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN)?
Collaborative private-sector research networks
Research commercialization and market-oriented development
Technology transfer and applied research activities
Training of graduate students and postdoctoral fellows
Who can I contact for more information about the Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN)?
You can contact Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCE) by email at info@nce-rce.gc.ca or by phone at 613-995-6010.
Where is the Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN) available?
The Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN) program is available across Canada.
Is the Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN) a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN) is a Partnering and Collaboration