Overview
- allows for the detection of genetic material shed by organisms into their environment,
- offers a non-invasive method to assess ecosystem health, track disease-causing pathogens, bolster forensic science capabilities and inform decision-making on public health and related interventions at both a regional and national scale.
Funding Highlights
Full Application deadline: CLOSED
Project Envelope Range: $500,000-$1,000,000
Objectives
The funding call aimed to:
- Broaden the use and effectiveness of eDNA surveillance through investments in the development of genomics tools, technologies and solutions,
- enable the systematic collection, analysis and interpretation of eDNA samples from various ecosystems across Canada and,
- ensure that applied eDNA tools respect and prioritize Indigenous communities’ rights, interests, and expectations, ensuring their needs are met and their active involvement is sought.
Three streams of funding
A total of $4.3 million was available from Genome Canada to support the eDNA Surveillance Initiative. There were three streams of funding within this funding opportunity. Genome Alberta led Stream 1 for Alberta, and Streams 2 and 3 were led by Genome Canada.
STREAM 1 – REGIONAL UPTAKE
Regional Uptake consisted of Genome Centre-led projects that aimed to refine eDNA collection methods, improve analytical techniques, and increase the capacity of eDNA data for public, community, and personalized health and biodiversity applications.
STREAM 2 – INDIGENOUS-LED AND/OR PARTNERSHIP-BASED
Indigenous-led and/or partnership-based projects were aimed at advancing applied eDNA solutions that prioritized Indigenous rights, interests, and expectations.
STREAM 3 – COLLABORATION AND ENGAGEMENT
Collaboration and Engagement was aimed at facilitating discussions with Canadian and international stakeholders with the goals of advancing data standards, implementing best practices, increasing alignment and connectivity, and supporting public health and other stakeholders in their decision-making.
Application Process
Applications are now closed.
Documents and Resources
- Link to Funding Announcement – Genome Alberta
- Link to Funding Announcement – Genome Canada
- Link to Previously Funded Projects
Funding Contact
Genome Alberta
info@genomealberta.ca