Community-University Research Alliances

A pilot program helping organizations within communities and university institutions collaborate to tackle common, priority issues and concerns has been launched by The Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC). SSHRC will provide core funding for a limited number of “CURA” (Community-University Research Alliances) to support a diverse range of innovative research, training and related activities that will:

Enhance mutual learning and horizontal collaboration between community organizations and universities

Contribute to the social, cultural and (or) economic development of communities

Enrich research, teaching methods and curricula in universities, and reinforce decision-making and problem solving capacity in communities

Enhance students’ education and employability through diverse opportunities to build expertise and work-force skills in an appropriate research setting

Two competitions are scheduled (one in 1999-2000 and one in 2000-2001) with funding available for up to 24 CURAs in the first cycle. Timing for the second cycle hasn’t yet been determined, but a minimum of 8 CURAs will be funded.

Each CURA is to receive up to $200,000 ($400,000 if a consortium) per year for three years, renewable subject to various conditions. Continuation of the program will depend on results of the pilot and the status of SSHRC’s budget.

Applicants must represent a Canadian university or organization however, internationally based researchers, organizations, or institutions may participate as partners. The next deadline for submission of a letter of intent is April 1, 2000.