Funding, News and Announcements

Brain Canada and the ALS Society of Canada are pleased to announce the continuation of the Discovery Grant Program. The purpose of the 2023 Discovery Grant Program is to invest in the best possible projects that are focused on identifying causes of, or treatments for ALS and/or related neurological diseases, including primary lateral sclerosis, progressive muscular atrophy, and ALS/FTLD (frontotemporal lobar dementia), or research focused on avenues to maximize function, minimize disability and optimize quality of life through symptom management, and support to persons or families living with ALS.

Discovery Grants are designed to support teams of multiple investigators and especially encourage multidisciplinary teams with individuals from outside the field who can combine their expertise in novel or innovative ways.

The ALS Canada – Brain Canada Discovery Grant Program 2023 consists of two streams, which both consist of novel or innovative research approaches, supported by sound rationale and a feasible experimental plan, and maintain the high-risk/high-reward mindset:

Stream 1: Aimed at nurturing novel ideas looking to obtain preliminary data or to pursue ideas supported by very early data signals. Preliminary data may enhance competitiveness but is not necessarily required. Up to six awards of $125,000 will be awarded in this cycle.

Stream 2: Consists of more ambitious projects that are supported with some level of preliminary data to justify the larger investment. Up to two awards of $300,000 will be awarded in this cycle.

Evidence clearly shows that increasing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in research environments enhances excellence, innovation, and creativity. Brain Canada is committed to excellence through equity, and we encourage applicants of diverse backgrounds to apply to our funding opportunities, which will promote the expression of diverse perspectives, approaches, and experiences, including those of underrepresented groups.

Click here to view the Terms of Reference.

Deadlines

Internal: June 28, 2023 at 4:30pm. For questions regarding internal procedure, contact the grants facilitator for your faculty. For additional resources, click here for guidance on internal deadlines and submission processes.

Funder: July 12, 2023 at 2pm AST