Challenge programs

New Challenge programs coming soon

The NRC is launching new Challenge programs to strengthen Canada's research and innovation capacity in quantum, electric vehicles and AI. Stay tuned to learn how you can express interest in opportunities to shape the program's design.

Breakthroughs take teamwork

When we support new ideas and help researchers, businesses and universities work together, we create conditions for breakthrough technologies that benefit all Canadians.

Through our Challenge programs, the NRC is partnering with private and public sector, academic and other research organizations in Canada and internationally to advance transformative, high-risk, high-reward research that address Canadian priorities.

The Government of Canada has provided $150 million over 5 years, with $30 million per year ongoing to fund NRC researchers and their innovative partners from post-secondary institutions and businesses on multi-party research and development (R&D) programs. An additional $15 million in funding will address R&D needs in the fight against COVID‑19.

The Challenge programs are a component of the new collaborative research and development programs announced in 2019, as part of the Canada Innovation and Skills Plan and commitment to support business innovation.

Mission-oriented programs across industries

These R&D programs bring together researchers and facilities from across the NRC's 12 research centres, with academic and industrial partners.

Outcome-focussed
Multi-disciplinary
Up to 7 years in duration

Grant and contribution funding is provided through the NRC's National Program Office for collaborators who offer complementary expertise, including academic institutions and small and medium-sized enterprises.

Programs are developed in consultation with stakeholders and strengthened through peer review.

Collaborate with us

Learn more about opportunities for collaboration in any of the following areas:

AI for Productivity Coming in 2025

Driving AI adoption in manufacturing, clean tech and agriculture to improve productivity and profitability.

e-Auto Coming in 2025

To accelerate the transition of the automotive industry from internal combustion engine to electric vehicles.

Learn more about E-Auto

Quantum Internetworking Coming in 2025

To develop solutions for networking quantum sensing, computing, and communications technologies.

Construction Sector Digitalization and Productivity

2023-2029

To support further modernization and digitalization of Canadian construction sector practices.

Learn more about Construction Sector Digitalization and Productivity

Low Carbon Built Environment

2023-2029

To support the development of low-carbon construction tools, products and services.

Learn more about Low Carbon Built Environment

Critical Battery Materials Initiative

2023-2027

To develop AI-enabled platforms that can discover critical battery materials and processes in a third of the time it takes today, contributing to the growth of the Canadian supply chain.

Learn more about Critical Battery Materials Initiative program

Applied Quantum Computing

2022-2028

To support commercial and government innovations in quantum algorithms and applied quantum computing.

Learn more about Applied Quantum Computing

Arctic and Northern

2022-2029

To address pressing issues impacting the quality of life of northern peoples.

Learn more about Arctic and Northern

Aging in Place

2021-2028

To improve the quality of life of older adults and their personal caregivers through innovation that will support safe and healthy aging.

Learn more about Aging in Place

Internet of Things: Quantum Sensors

2021-2028

To develop revolutionary sensors that could be engineered and commercialized for applications in the environment, natural resources, health care, and defence.

Learn more about Internet of Things: Quantum Sensors