Overview

The Institutional Programs Office also supports researchers applying for funding through the Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan) or transitioning to UBC for major appointments such as Canada Excellence Research Chairs.

The IPO also provides strategic support for other major appointments and large scale initiatives at the university.

Funding through Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan)

The Institutional Programs Office coordinates all proposals and applications to Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan) on behalf of UBC researchers.

PacifiCan’s Regional Innovation Ecosystems (RIE) program strengthens economic growth and supports businesses across British Columbia by investing in organizations that help them innovate, improve productivity, and grow.

PacifiCan has implemented significant changes to their application process this year. Previously, PacifiCan accepted proposals on a rolling basis throughout the year using a two-stage process: project concept forms followed by full proposals. Starting this year, they have transitioned to issuing Calls for Proposals twice annually—one in mid-June and one in the fall—with applicants submitting only full proposals.

The first call for proposals is now live, with a deadline of 12:00pm (PT) on September 11th, 2026. If you are interested and have questions, please contact andy.lam@ubc.ca or sharon.wu@ubc.ca

The specific 2026-2027 priorities are detailed in the application call and are expected to align with PacifiCan's 2026-2028 Strategic Plan.

Learn more about PacifiCan Funding                Learn more about the REI Program September 2026 intake

Information Session (online)

 Friday, July 24: 10:00 - 11:00 AM on Zoom - details will be provided to PacifiCan applicants by email. 

Canada Excellence Research Chairs

The Canada Excellence Research Chairs program attracts top research talent from abroad to Canada and provides up to $10 million over seven years for each chair and their research teams.

Read more about the CERC program                      

Canada 150 Research Chairs

In celebration of the 150th anniversary of Canada's confederation, the Government of Canada created the Canada 150 (C150) Research Chairs program to attract and retain top-tier international scholars, including Canadian expatriates, to Canada.

Read more about the C150 program

 
Institutional Programs Office signature UBC Support Programs to Advance Research Capacity

Part of the VP Research & Innovation portfolio

Institutional Programs Office

Suite 4140 – 2260 West Mall
Vancouver, BC Canada V6T 1Z4

UBC receives support for managing its research enterprise from the federal Research Support Fund.

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