Ontario launches global research program

Toronto, ON – A new program launched by the Ontario government will help connect the province’s researchers with their colleagues around the world.

The five-year International Strategic Opportunities Program (ISOP) will provide successful applicants with up to $150,000 in funding over three years, for new strategic international collaborations.

The program is open to Ontario universities, affiliated research and teaching hospitals, colleges and not-for-profit organizations. Companies can also participate, but cannot be the lead organization.

Funding will be used to build and manage early-stage research partnerships and coordinate the management of research grant proposals and international workshops. It also supports activities related to managing a strategic international research project, such as consortia project management, missions to develop or expand research links, travel, research exchange programs, international workshops and meetings, and publishing proceedings.

“We are committed to building a culture of innovation in Ontario,” said Dalton McGuinty, the province’s premier and minister of research. “By supporting cutting-edge, global research, we can continue to attract the best and brightest research talent to our province, making Ontario the place to be for years to come.”