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 is implementing 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 will transition to issuing Calls for Proposals twice annually—one in mid-June and one in the fall—with applicants submitting only full proposals.
While the specific details of the new application process are still being finalized, we have been informed that applicants will have a six-week turnaround time from the release of each application call to the submission deadline. The specific 2026-2027 priorities will be detailed in the application call and are expected to align with PacifiCan's 2026-2028 Strategic Plan.
Learn more about PacifiCan Funding
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