INVEST North, Innovation: Industrial Research Chair Program
by Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation
Also known as: Innovation – Industrial Research Chair Program · NOHFC IRC Program
NOHFC's Industrial Research Chair program funds Northern Ontario universities, colleges, and not-for-profit research institutions to establish research chairs: 50% of eligible costs up to $1 million as a conditional contribution, for chairs up to five years in duration. A financially contributing, actively involved private-sector partner is mandatory, and the research must target business problem-solving or commercialization. Funding is Board-determined and limited.
Key facts
- Amount
- Up to $1,000,000
myportal.nohfc.ca · Last verified Aug 17, 2026 · Auto-checked against official source
- Instrument
- Conditional contribution
- Status
- Open, continuous intake no fixed deadline; approvals on the funder's cycle
- Your share
- See terms
myportal.nohfc.ca · Last verified Aug 17, 2026 · Auto-checked against official source
- Who qualifies
- Northern Ontario universities, Northern Ontario colleges, research institutions (not for profit organizations whose primary activity is scientific research)
- Must involve a financially contributing, actively involved private-sector partner
- Project must fit the institution's strategic research plan and focus on business problem solving and/or commercialization
myportal.nohfc.ca · Last verified Aug 17, 2026 · Auto-checked against official source
Common questions
Who can apply for an Industrial Research Chair?
Northern Ontario universities, colleges, and research institutions, defined as not-for-profit organizations whose primary activity is scientific research. Businesses cannot apply directly but must participate as partners.
What does the funding cover?
Chair holder salary and mandatory benefits, laboratory construction or renovation, research equipment (acquisition, operation, maintenance), research materials, and publishing costs, 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $1 million over up to five years.
What costs are excluded?
Compensation for other research team members, indirect operating/administrative costs, professional/technical service fees, travel and meeting costs, and office equipment or furnishings.
Is a private-sector partner required?
Yes, IRCs must involve private-sector partnerships where the partner contributes financially and is actively involved in the research.
Apply
Apply on the funder’s site and confirm current terms there: