Closed
Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN)
Private-sector-led research network funding
Last Update: April 29, 2026
Funding available
$ 1,200,000
Timeline
- Closing date : 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
Timeline
- Closing date : February 15, 2013
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Manufacturing
- Professional, scientific and technical services
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
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
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Enterprise-led Centres of Excellence Network Programme (ECoN). 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 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