Collaborative Networks
Now open
Submit your application by Monday November 23, 2026 at 11:59 PM (PCT). Applications received after this date and time will not be accepted. Review the Application Guide and Application Form before applying.
MINDS Collaborative Networks provide funding to multidisciplinary teams of experts conducting research on defence and security issues relevant to the Defence Team.
Networks bring together researchers and experts from different organizations, with various perspectives and areas of expertise, to address specific defence and security challenges. Their research strengthens Canadian defence and security scholarship and provides the Defence Team with timely and relevant policy advice.
Funding
Applications are only accepted during the active competition period, which takes place annually in the Fall/Winter. Join our mailing list to be notified when the next competition opens.
Get up to $250,000 per year, for up to 3 years.
Funding can support:
- research and analysis
- conferences, workshops and other knowledge sharing activities
- written and oral briefings for the Defence Team
- support for students
- engagement with the Canadian public
- other activities that contribute to the network's research objectives
Eligibility
You can apply as network director if:
- you are a Canadian citizen
- you are affiliated with a Canadian institution or organization
- your network focuses on social science or policy-centered research
In your application, your network must:
- include researchers and experts from at least two (2) different types of organizations, such as:
- academic institutions
- think tanks
- non-government organizations
- private sector organizations
- demonstrate representation from at least three (3) regions within Canada
Employees of federal, provincial/territorial, municipal or Indigenous government departments and agencies are not eligible to apply. This includes employees of Canadian Defence Academy institutions. Members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are also not eligible, except for Class A Reservists.
Detailed eligibility requirements can be found in the application guide.
How to apply
Step 1: Review the application guide
Review the application guide carefully each time you apply. Application requirements may change between funding competitions.
Step 2: Complete the application form
Provide information about:
- your network and its members
- your network’s research focus and its relevance to the Defence Team
- your spending strategy and estimated budget
- how your network meets the application criteria
Step 3: Submit your application
Email your completed application to MINDS@forces.gc.ca
How we review your application
Applications are assessed and scored based on:
- Relevance
- How the network aligns with the MINDS Program Objectives
- How the network responds to one or more MINDS Defence Policy Challenges
- Diversity
- How the network incorporates Gender Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) in its design and delivery of its activities
- Innovation and technology
- How the network demonstrates innovation and creativity
- How the network plans to use technology to support its objectives
See the application guide for detailed information about the assessment criteria.