Brain Canada has announced the launch of its 2024 Platform Support Grants (PSG) program, a pioneering initiative designed to address a significant funding gap in the neuroscience research landscape. This program aims to foster innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration by enhancing research platforms, thereby advancing the fields of neuroscience and mental health research.
Recognizing the vital role that research platforms play in meeting the evolving needs of high-impact research, Brain Canada has allocated $13 million in new federal funding through the Canada Brain Research Fund. This investment will be matched by funding from sponsors secured by the applicants, resulting in a total funding pool of $26 million.
“Today’s brain research requires access to sophisticated shared resources like equipment, facilities, databases, and biobanks, collectively known as platforms,” said Dr. Viviane Poupon, President and CEO of Brain Canada. “With the Government of Canada’s recent $80 million investment in brain research, we are pleased to launch the 2024 PSG program, which will enable researchers to address the evolving needs of neuroscience and mental health research.”
Platform Support Grants Program Overview
The PSG program is designed to support major research platforms at local, regional, or national levels, enhancing technical and research capabilities for multiple neuroscience investigators. The program offers two funding streams:
Stream 1: This stream will support platforms that are either in development or already existing but have not previously received funding through Brain Canada’s Platform Support Grants program.
Stream 2: This stream is dedicated to supporting platforms that have previously been funded through Brain Canada’s Platform Support Grants program.
Historically, the research grants awarded through the PSG program have ranged from $138,000 to $6.1 million (including matching funds) over the duration of the grant.
Application Details
Applicants interested in the 2024 PSG program must submit their registration forms by July 24, 2024. The deadline for the full application submission is September 20, 2024.
For complete application details and guidelines, please visit the Brain Canada website.
This initiative not only aims to elevate the infrastructure available for neuroscience research but also to accelerate scientific discoveries that could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating brain disorders.