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Request for Proposals: BRN IGNITE Grant 5.0 (Canada)

Deadline: 12-Jan-2026

The Black Research Network (BRN) at the University of Toronto has launched the BRN IGNITE Grant 5.0, offering $5,000–$15,000 to support Black-identified faculty, postdoctoral scholars, medical researchers, and trainees. The grant funds professional development, research dissemination, collaborative projects, and other research-related activities, with a one-year completion timeline. Applications are due January 12, 2026, and awards will be announced in March 2026.

What is the BRN IGNITE Grant?

The BRN IGNITE Grant is an institutional funding initiative designed to support the professional growth and research activities of Black scholars and researchers at the University of Toronto. The grant provides financial support ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, enabling recipients to advance their research projects, disseminate findings, and access professional development opportunities.

Key Objectives

  • Promote professional development for Black scholars.

  • Support research dissemination through publications, workshops, and conferences.

  • Facilitate research support including project development, collaboration, and trainee stipends.

  • Enable travel for academic engagements or visiting scholars.

  • Cover consumables and research supplies essential for projects.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Identity: Black-identified individuals.

  • Affiliation: Must hold a primary appointment at the University of Toronto.

  • Positions: Faculty, librarians, postdoctoral scholars, clinical scientists, medical research fellows, or residents across all disciplines.

  • Preference: Applicants who have not previously received the IGNITE Grant.
    Ineligible activities include:

  • Purchase of equipment for training or research.

  • Teaching relief or course release.

  • Contract research with external organizations.

  • Administrative fees, salaries, or overhead costs.

Why the BRN IGNITE Grant Matters

The BRN IGNITE Grant plays a critical role in:

  • Advancing equity in research funding by supporting Black scholars.

  • Increasing visibility and impact of research conducted by underrepresented groups.

  • Fostering collaboration and professional growth within the University of Toronto community.

  • Accelerating knowledge dissemination through conferences, workshops, and publications.

What Activities Are Supported?

The grant can fund:

  1. Professional Development: Training, mentorship, or career advancement activities.

  2. Research Dissemination: Conference participation, journal publications, and workshops.

  3. Research Support: New project development, collaborative research initiatives.

  4. Travel: Academic visits or hosting visiting scholars.

  5. Consumables & Supplies: Items required to conduct research effectively.

  6. Trainee Support: Stipends or fellowships for students and postdoctoral researchers.

How to Apply

Application Requirements

Applicants must complete the BRN IGNITE Grant Online Application Form by Monday, January 12, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST. The form requires:

  • Research Description: Up to 1,000 words detailing the project.

  • Potential Impact: Outline how the project will contribute to the field.

  • Budget & Justification: Detailed funding request within the $5,000–$15,000 range.

  • Timeline: Key research activities to be completed within one year.

  • Curriculum Vitae: Current CV of the applicant.

Selection Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

  1. Clarity of research objectives and description.

  2. Potential impact and value of the proposed project.

  3. Strength and justification of the budget.

  4. Feasibility of the timeline and proposed activities.
    Important: Awardees must submit a final report using the provided university template by the end of the fiscal year or upon project completion.

Common Mistakes & Tips

  • Budget Errors: Ensure all expenses align with eligible categories.

  • Eligibility Misunderstanding: Only Black-identified faculty, postdocs, and researchers at U of T are eligible.

  • Timeline Issues: Projects must be completed within one year.

  • Incomplete Applications: Include all required documents—research description, CV, budget, and timeline.

  • Previous Recipients: Preference is given to first-time applicants.
    Tips for Success:

  • Clearly articulate the research impact and benefits to the academic community.

  • Provide a realistic timeline with achievable milestones.

  • Align your budget strictly with eligible costs.

FAQ

1. What is the funding range for the BRN IGNITE Grant?
$5,000–$15,000 per approved project.
2. Who can apply?
Black-identified faculty, librarians, postdoctoral scholars, clinical scientists, and medical research fellows or residents at the University of Toronto.
3. What types of projects are eligible?
Projects that involve professional development, research dissemination, collaborative initiatives, academic travel, consumables, or trainee support.
4. Are equipment and salaries covered?
No. Equipment, salaries, teaching relief, contract research with external organizations, and administrative fees are not eligible.
5. When is the application deadline?
January 12, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST.
6. When will recipients be notified?
Award decisions will be announced in March 2026.
7. What reporting is required?
Recipients must submit a project report or fiscal year-end report using the template provided by the university.

Conclusion

The BRN IGNITE Grant 5.0 is a strategic initiative to empower Black scholars at the University of Toronto, providing financial support to advance research, professional development, and academic collaboration. Eligible applicants are encouraged to submit thorough, well-justified proposals by the January 12, 2026 deadline to take advantage of this transformative funding opportunity.

For more information, visit BRN.