The Indigenous Innovation and Leadership in Research Network Grants support Indigenous-led research and training. This initiative aligns with the tri-agency strategic plan to support Indigenous research and training in Canada. The grants aim to foster collaboration, build capacity, and promote Indigenous self-determination in research.

Funding Opportunity Details

This funding opportunity is a tri-agency initiative with a total investment of $19 million over four years. It is designed for First Nations, Métis, and Indigenous not-for-profit organizations and Indigenous institutions serving more than one distinction. The initiative seeks to build on Indigenous knowledge systems and promote interdisciplinary collaboration across various fields.

The grants support decolonized research and training, addressing key elements of the "Setting New Directions" strategy. This includes supporting Indigenous research priorities, championing Indigenous leadership, and recognizing Indigenous ways of knowing. The initiative also aims to develop strategies for respectful data management and intellectual property rights in Indigenous research.

The funding is divided into two stages: Stage 1 provides up to $75,000 for one year, while Stage 2 (by invitation only) offers up to $1.75 million for four years. Stage 2 also includes a one-year extension without additional funding. The application deadline for Stage 1 is October 21, 2025, at 8 p.m. eastern, with results announced in January 2026.

Objectives and Expected Outcomes

The primary objective is to support Indigenous-led research that addresses community needs and priorities. This includes integrating Indigenous methodologies and knowledge systems into research practices. The initiative also aims to support strategies for data governance and stewardship in Indigenous research.

Another key objective is to increase networking and collaboration among Indigenous researchers, communities, and postsecondary institutions. This transcends disciplinary barriers and supports the involvement of Indigenous Elders and knowledge-holders in research. The initiative also aims to support relationships with the land, spirits, ancestors, and more-than-human relatives.

Expected outcomes include strengthened knowledge about research priorities identified by Indigenous researchers and institutions. It also aims to increase Indigenous leadership and capacities in research, decolonize Indigenous research, and generate culturally accessible research outcomes. These outcomes should address community needs and include knowledge translation and mobilization activities.

Eligibility Criteria

This funding opportunity is reserved for First Nations or Métis not-for-profit organizations, First Nations or Métis postsecondary institutions, Indigenous not-for-profit organizations serving more than one distinction, and Indigenous postsecondary institutions serving more than one distinction. Proposals should be interdisciplinary and align with priorities identified by Indigenous communities.

Eligible applicants must be affiliated with an eligible Indigenous not-for-profit organization or Indigenous postsecondary institution. The project director prepares the application on behalf of the institution or organization. Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers are welcome to participate as co-applicants or collaborators.

Here are the eligibility requirements in bullet points:

• Must be a First Nations or Métis not-for-profit organization

• Must be a First Nations or Métis postsecondary institution

• Must be an Indigenous not-for-profit organization serving more than one distinction

• Must be an Indigenous postsecondary institution serving more than one distinction

Application Process and Merit Review

Project directors must complete the application form and submit it electronically through an authorized representative. Applications should indicate the appropriate funding opportunity stream: Métis Stream, First Nations Stream, or Multiple Indigenous Communities Stream. The final stream selection is based on the recommendation of the merit review committee.

Stage 1 involves developing general network objectives, research questions, team composition, and a preliminary budget. If awarded, applicants are invited to further refine these elements for the Stage 2 application. This includes describing the research methodology, developing a detailed budget, establishing a network agreement, and consolidating collaborative activities.

Applications are reviewed through a competitive merit review process, guided by the principle of minimum essential funding. The merit review committee uses specific criteria developed in collaboration with the Reference Group for the Appropriate Review of Indigenous Research. Stage 1 applications are reviewed using the Community-Guided Research and Relevance criterion, while Stage 2 applications use all four criteria.

Evaluation Criteria and Regulations

The evaluation criteria include Community-Guided Research and Relevance, Learning, Mentorship, and Community Expertise, Relational Accountability and Ethical Partnerships, and Knowledge Sharing and Impact. These criteria reflect Indigenous worldviews and guide the merit review process. Applications must receive a score of 3.0 or higher for each criterion to be recommended for funding.

Final funding decisions aim to create a balanced network environment, considering the equitable allocation of funds among Métis and First Nations, addressing multiple subject areas, and covering multiple Canadian geographical regions. Competition results are communicated to project directors and institutions.

Grant holders must comply with the Tri-Agency Open Access Policy on Publications and are encouraged to consult the Tri-Agency Research Data Management Policy. All project directors and grant holders must adhere to the Regulations Governing Grant Applications and the Tri-Agency Guide on Financial Administration.