The VPR Catalyst Grants at the University of Calgary fund early-stage research projects to help researchers build momentum toward securing major external funding.
Funder: University of Calgary
Due Dates: October 1, 2026 | February 1, 2027 | June 1, 2027
Funding Amounts: $1,000–$15,000 per grant (rarely up to $20,000); 6–12 month duration
Summary: Supports early-stage research at UCalgary to catalyze projects toward substantial external funding.
Key Information: One submission per applicant per intake; deadlines shift to next business day if on a holiday/weekend.
The VPR Catalyst Grants at the University of Calgary are internal funding opportunities designed to catalyze well-defined, early-stage research activities that lead to substantial external funding. The program encourages bold, strategic thinking to maximize the impact of future funding, prioritizing projects with strong research context, mentorship, collaboration, and knowledge engagement partnerships. The grant supports projects that demonstrate a logical progression toward external funding and that align with the principal investigator’s research trajectory. Constructive, formative feedback is provided for unsuccessful applications, and resubmissions are welcomed.