Catalyst Project Funding

O’Brien Institute awards for members launching new research projects

People working on laptops

Catalyst Grants are awarded to O’Brien Institute members seeking seed funding for early-stage research that builds the evidence, partnerships, and momentum needed to pursue larger external funding and generate meaningful academic and societal impact.

Funded projects are expected to:

  • Support new research activities and interdisciplinary collaboration 
  • Align with the O’Brien Institute’s strategic focus areas 
  • Demonstrate strong potential to leverage external funding within approximately 24 months 
  • Lead to academic outputs and societal benefits 

The O’Brien Institute offers two Catalyst Grant competitions each year, aligned with its strategic priorities. Awards of $10,000–$20,000 can be requested for projects of 1-2 years. Partner contributions are encouraged. Applications are reviewed by a panel of Institute Directors, members, and, where relevant, funding partners. Successful applicants are required to submit annual outcomes reports and at least one knowledge mobilization output for a non-academic audience. Outputs arising from Catalyst project awards must acknowledge the funding source.

Health Systems catalyst competition

The O'Brien Institute for Public Health (OIPH) Catalyst Grant provides seed funding to a maximum value of $20,000 over two years to build the evidence, partnerships, and momentum needed to pursue larger external funding, subsequent academic outputs and meaningful societal impact. Applications must align with the Learning Health System strategic priority.

Funding available: Up to $20,000 over two years
Deadline: Nov. 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. MT
Learn more and apply

New funding partnership with the Azrieli Accelerator

This fall, the O’Brien Institute’s Learning Health Systems Catalyst Grant includes a new funding partnership with the Azrieli Accelerator. Researchers are invited to submit proposals focused on improving health and care for people living with neurodevelopmental conditions across the lifespan.

Proposals may focus on one or multiple neurodevelopmental conditions, including autism, ADHD, intellectual disability and others.

Healthier Populations Catalyst Grant

The 2026 Healthier Populations Catalyst Grant competition is closed.