SSHRC launches new pilot funding opportunity: Policy Innovation Partnership Grants

Description

SSHRC has announced the launch of a new pilot funding opportunity: Policy Innovation Partnership Grants. Valued at up to $6 million over 15 years, these grants will support a partnership between a postsecondary-based research entity and one or more government departments to establish a long-term research program focusing on a specific topic in an area of importance to Canada.

If the pilot is deemed successful, the funding opportunity will be offered periodically, subject to the availability of funds. Each competition will focus on a new target area where research in the social sciences and humanities is well positioned to make an impact. The first competition targets research that supports and informs public policy aimed at boosting Canada’s productivity.

The funding opportunity has been designed to foster long-term, high-impact research for consideration in policy development. The objectives emphasize collaboration, data work, and capacity building. The successful partnership will have significant flexibility with the scope, priorities, and activities of the research program to adapt to new developments and changing circumstances, as needed, over the duration of the grant.

The funding opportunity will use a single-stage application process, and only one partnership will be funded per competition. An impact review will be conducted every five years in order to assess the relevance of the partnership and determine whether funding will continue.

The application deadline to SSHRC is September 10, 2025, with an anticipated award start date in January 2026. 

Research Services Offices will publish a research alert with information about internal deadlines and the adjudication process, after SSHRC hosts the information webinar on March 26, 2025.