Overview
As a key delivery partner in the Government of Canada’s Canadian Genomics Strategy, Genome Canada is investing in commercialization and adoption of genomics and biotechnology through the Genomics Applied Partnership Program (GAPP). GAPP aims to support Canadian for-profit enterprises in transforming genomics-based research into commercial applications. It also aims to increase private-sector investment in commercialization of innovation derived from public R&D, drive technological implementation through collaboration between research, and de-risk development to attract additional funding. In addition, it seeks to promote inclusive innovation by encouraging the participation of individuals from equity-deserving communities.
The GAPP is designed to support Canadian for-profit enterprises (FPEs) that have an economic interest in developing an idea or research into a commercial application. Each project must be a well-defined collaboration between an industry partner and an academic researcher, with optional support from additional collaborators or co-investigators, and require all partners bring essential expertise and have clearly outlined responsibilities.
Funding Highlights
Genome Canada contribution range: $300,000 – $2,000,000
Project Envelope Range: $900,000 – $6,000,000
Co-funding: Applicants can request up to 1/3 of the project budget from Genome Canada
Total Genome Canada Funding Available Nationally for 2025 intake: $14,000,000
Project start date: Before March 31, 2026
Project Term: Maximum of 2 years
Information about the 2026 intake will be shared in early 2026.
Target Timelines
Funding Decisions: December 2025
Release of Funds: On/before March 31, 2026
Objectives
The objectives of the National Stream of GAPP are to:
- Increase Canadian private-sector investment in the commercialization of innovation derived from public R&D funding in genomics and biotechnology.
- Stimulate technological innovation and implementation through cooperative R&D between research and receptors.
- Enable research investments that de-risk opportunities and secure follow-on funding from finance and industry.
- Foster and encourage participation in innovation and entrepreneurship by individuals from equity-deserving communities.
Application Process
Applications for the 2025 GAPP intake are now closed. Information on the 2026 GAPP intake will be available shortly.
The National GAPP application involves three stages: a Letter of Intent (LOI), a full proposal, and a pitch. The LOI outlines the project’s innovation, market potential, and commercialization path, and must address key business questions and eligibility criteria. The full proposal provides a detailed plan covering technical feasibility, commercialization strategy, market validation, and team qualifications. Selected teams then pitch their project to Genome Canada, addressing reviewer feedback and answering questions to advance in the process.
Documents & Resources
- See Funding Guidelines
- See Previously Funded Projects
- See Regional GAPP Information
Funding Contact
Georgia Balsevich, Senior Sector Innovation Manager
gbalsevich@genomealberta.ca