August 11, 2016
Genome BC’s User Partnership Program (UPP) has come to a close and we are currently working to replace it with two options for investment on genomics research and application: the Sector Innovation Program (SIP) and GeneSolve.
The SIP will support small-scale projects that demonstrate the application of genomics to key sectors which will derive economic and social benefits for British Columbians. Genome BC will award up to $250,000 per project. The SIP launch is planned for late September, 2016. The SIP will have three application intakes per year, with the first being in December, 2016. Interested applicants are required to submit a registration form in advance of the application deadline.
Genome BC is also developing a new user-driven program called GeneSolve. GeneSolve aims to support projects that will provide solutions to user challenges and encourages a collaborative research approach between users and academia. Genome BC will award up to $250,000 per project, with a 1:1 match from the User Partner. No additional co-funding is required. Genome BC will work directly with interested User Partners to post “challenges” on an open-access website and researchers can submit a short description of the solution they propose to address the user need. The User Partner and Genome BC will work together to select the research team which will work with the User Partner to develop the research plan. Program launch is planned for January, 2017, but interested User Partners are encouraged to contact Genome BC at any time.
In recognition of the need for dedicated funding to support social science and humanities research related to genomics, and after consultation with the research community, Genome BC is developing a Societal Issues Program with a total investment of $250,000. The goals of this program are to support research that identify and study the societal issues that emerge from genomics based innovations. Projects are eligible for up to $50,000 from Genome BC, and no co-funding is required. The Societal Issues Program launch is planned for September, 2016. For more information, click here.
Web pages will be available shortly for these programs but in the interim please direct any questions to Alison Dendoff, Manager, New Programs.
