Academic / Research

WD focuses its efforts on programs and investments that strengthen innovation, foster a competitive and expanded business sector, and contribute to economic development in communities across the West.

Funding is available to support academic and research projects that support at least one of WD’s three strategic priorities: innovation, entrepreneurship and community economic development.

Our investments are helping the region compete in the knowledge-based economy, developing a more diversified economic base and creating new skilled employment for western Canadians. Areas of focus are:

Research and development,
Technology adoption and commercialization,
Knowledge infrastructure,
Skills development, and
Research that enhances the understanding of the West.

The following sections provide general information on various programs that are available. However, we strongly encourage applicants to contact the nearest WD office and discuss their proposal with a program officer, who can provide invaluable assistance about sources of funds and the application process.

Groups eligible to apply under these programs include universities and other post-secondary academic institutions, research institutes, industry associations and other not-for-profit organizations.

Western Diversification Program (WDP) (eligibility criteria) is the main program through which WD invests in projects that support our strategic priorities of innovation, entrepreneurship and community economic development.
Western Economic Partnership Agreements (WEPAs) (eligibility criteria) are multi-year funding commitments to strengthen economic activity and improve quality of life in western communities. WEPAs are cost-shared equally with each of the four western provinces, with a total of $200 million allocated to initiatives identified as federal and provincial priorities. Specific priorities in some regions include tourism revitalization, development and promotion of environmental technologies, and ground-breaking health technology research and development.
Canada Foundation for Innovation Support Program (eligibility criteria) reimburses qualified western research institutions up to 90 per cent of eligible direct costs incurred, to a maximum of $20,000, to assist with the cost of preparing a Canada Foundation for Innovation proposal.