Overview
The new Indigenous Genomics Training and Capacity program will strengthen First Nations (status and non-status), Métis and Inuit (hereafter referred to as Indigenous) technical, social scientific and community capacities to engage with and conduct genomics research in ways that uphold and advance Indigenous rights to self-determination. The program will invest in partnerships to support career development and research transition programs that lead to independent research and advance careers in genomics.
Launched in April 2025, this program will provide Indigenous-led training opportunities for Indigenous students and community practitioners, equipping them with genomic skills and capabilities that integrate Indigenous knowledge systems, values and perspectives with modern science, technology and social scientific critique. Funding for the program is provided through Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED).
Funding Highlights
Full Application deadline: September 15, 2025
Total Funding Available: Up to $400,000 from Genome Canada.
Number of Projects: Up to two projects funded
Timeframe: Up to three years each
Target Timelines
Full Application Deadline: September 15, 2025
Notice of Awards to Applicants: October 2025
Project Start: January 1, 2026
Key Objectives
- Build Indigenous capacity in genomics
- Promote career development
- Integrate Indigenous knowledge and perspectives
- Advance Indigenous self-determination
- Foster interdisciplinary exploration
Funding Available and Term
- A maximum of $400,000 is available from Genome Canada.
- Funding will be allocated to up to TWO (2) projects.
- Genome Canada funds will be required to flow on or before January 1, 2026, and the funded project will have a maximum term of THREE (3) years.
- Co-funding is not required but is encouraged.
Application Process
The Indigenous Genomics Training and Capacity program will include a one-stage application process. Applicants are required to apply through Genome Canada’s Proposal Central Portal through a regional Genome Centre. Please contact Genome Alberta as soon as possible to discuss program interest and to initiate this process.
In the application, applicants will be required to briefly describe:
- How the proposed project will contribute to building Indigenous capacity in genomics.
- How the project will support Indigenous career development and transition into independent research roles.
- How the project will integrate Indigenous knowledge systems, values and perspectives.
- How the project will promote Indigenous self-determination in genomics research.
- The management plan and team, and their roles in the project, including project leadership and oversight.
- The project budget.
- The project co-funding plan (if applicable).
Full applications submitted will undergo an internal eligibility check by Genome Canada. A small panel of diverse and independent experts will complete an independent peer review of the proposals received.
Documents and Resources
- Funding Guidelines by Genome Canada– Click here
- Application form(s), and portal– Email Genome Alberta
- Previously Funded Projects – Click here
Funding Contact
Georgia Balsevich, Senior Sector Innovation Manager
gbalsevich@genomealberta.ca
