Call for Nominations: Synergy Awards for Innovation (Canada)

The Synergy Awards for Innovation, offered annually by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), honor exemplary partnerships between Canadian post-secondary institutions and partner organizations. These awards celebrate collaborative efforts that have led to significant advancements in research and tangible benefits for Canadians. The nomination deadline is 4 December 2026, before 8:00 pm ET. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)

- Opportunity Type: Award/Prize

- Funding Amount: Up to $200,000 for principal nominees; $50,000 voucher for partner organizations

- Eligible Applicants: Canadian universities and colleges with partner organizations

- Eligible Countries: Canada

- Deadline: 4 December 2026, before 8:00 pm ET

- Categories: University partnerships and College partnerships

About the Opportunity

The Synergy Awards for Innovation recognize outstanding partnerships that serve as models of effective collaboration between Canadian post-secondary institutions and partner organizations. These partnerships are pivotal in generating new knowledge and accelerating the application of research results, leading to significant benefits for Canada and its citizens. The awards are divided into two categories: university partnerships and college partnerships, each with its specific focus and eligibility criteria. Funding and Benefits - University Partnerships: Up to three awards available. Each winning partnership receives a $200,000 NSERC research grant. Eligible partner organizations receive a $50,000 voucher for use in new research partnerships projects. - College Partnerships: One award available. The college receives a $200,000 NSERC research grant, and partner organizations receive a $50,000 voucher for new research partnerships projects. Vouchers must be used within three years and can be applied across multiple years of a new project. The funds are subject to NSERC’s financial administration policies. Who Is Eligible? - University Partnerships: Must involve research in natural sciences or engineering, with up to 30% in other fields like social sciences or humanities. Eligible applicants include Canadian university professors and partner organizations from private, public, or not-for-profit sectors. - College Partnerships: Open to Canadian colleges and partner organizations from private, public, or not-for-profit sectors. Partnerships should focus on implementing results from a previous College and Community Innovation program grant. - General Eligibility: Partnerships involving both eligible colleges and universities with partner organizations are eligible. The nomination must comply with conflict of interest policies. Eligible Activities or Priority Areas

- University Partnerships: Focus on natural sciences or engineering.

- College Partnerships: Include natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, or health disciplines.

Why This Opportunity Matters The Synergy Awards for Innovation underscore the importance of collaboration in advancing research and development. By fostering partnerships across academia and industry, these awards contribute to Canada’s position as a leader in innovation, providing societal and economic benefits through shared expertise and resources. How to Apply

- Nomination Submission: Nominations must be submitted electronically via NSERC’s Secure Submission site.

- Deadline: Submit by 4 December 2026, before 8:00 pm ET.

- Required Documents:

- Completed Synergy Awards for Innovation form. - Terms and conditions forms signed by nominees and nominators. - A letter of nomination. - Partner organization letters and profiles. Self-nominations are not accepted. Nominators must consider equity, diversity, and inclusion in their processes. Application Tips or Common Mistakes - Ensure all documents adhere to NSERC’s presentation guidelines. - Write nomination materials for non-specialists, as they will be reviewed by a multidisciplinary committee. - Verify that all signatures and forms are complete before submission. Frequently Asked Questions What is the deadline for nominations? The deadline is 4 December 2026, before 8:00 pm ET. Who can be nominated for the Synergy Awards? Eligible Canadian universities and colleges in partnership with non-academic organizations can be nominated. How many awards are given each year? Up to three university awards and one college award are given annually. What is the value of the voucher for partner organizations? Eligible partner organizations receive a $50,000 voucher for use in new research projects. Can a nomination be submitted after the deadline? No, late submissions are not accepted. Next Steps Eligible applicants should review the official guidelines and prepare their nomination packages according to the specified criteria. Ensure all documents are complete and submitted by the deadline to be considered for this prestigious award.