NRC — Challenge programs

For organizations working at the edge of innovation, advancing complex research can be difficult without the right partners and long-term support. The NRC Challenge programs are designed for Canadian businesses, nonprofits, and research-driven organizations that are tackling ambitious, high-impact problems in areas like artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and health innovation. Rather than funding isolated projects, these programs focus on mission-oriented research that addresses national priorities and requires collaboration across sectors.

Led by the National Research Council of Canada, the Challenge programs bring together businesses, academic institutions, and public-sector partners to work on multi-year research and development initiatives. Projects often span several disciplines and can run for many years, giving participants the stability needed to pursue transformative ideas. Funding support is non-repayable and varies depending on the scope of the collaboration, with the goal of helping organizations contribute expertise, test technologies, and accelerate commercialization alongside NRC researchers.

Current and upcoming challenge areas include applied quantum computing, construction sector digitalization, low-carbon built environments, critical battery materials, aging in place, and AI-driven productivity, among others. Many programs are ongoing or accepting expressions of interest as new challenges are shaped. For organizations looking to play a role in large-scale, collaborative R&D efforts with national impact, learning more about how the NRC Challenge programs work can help determine whether this opportunity fits your innovation strategy.