Catalyst Project Funding

Catalyst project funds are awarded to Institute members proposing early phases of well-conceived research activities that:

• support team-building, interdisciplinary collaborations, and new activities;
• are designed to leverage larger, competitive, national-level, external funding within 24 months;
• support the mission, goals, and focus areas of the Institute;
• are scientifically rigorous, informed by evidence, and relevant to stakeholders;
• are designed to yield significant ensuing academic outputs and societal impact.

In 2024, at least two Catalyst project competitions will be advertised well in advance of separate opportunities to align with the Institute's strategic areas of focus.  Awards of $10,000 - $15,000 can be requested, for one- (to two-) year projects, and partner contributions from relevant stakeholders are encouraged. Decisions will be made based on the criteria set out in an application (which will be adapted from this generic application template), by a panel of Institute Directors, members, and possibly funding-source representatives. To assess return on investment, and ensure optimal program evolution, Catalyst awardees are required to submit annual outcomes reports (which will be adapted from this generic annual outcomes report). To enhance the profile of the Institute and recognize sponsors, outputs of Catalyst project awards will acknowledge the funding source.