Many Canadian researchers and founders believe international funding is unavailable unless they relocate or partner with a foreign institution. That’s not always the case. Programs like the European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant and the Mitacs Globalink Research Internship welcome international applicants, including Canadians, if you meet specific academic and career-stage requirements.
This guide explains who qualifies, how eligibility works, and where Canadian researchers and research-driven businesses fit.
Most international research funding is for individuals, not businesses. Eligibility depends on your academic background, research independence, and where the work will take place—not just your citizenship.
Two main paths are important for Canadians:
Below is how eligibility works for two of the most searched programs.
The ERC Starting Grant is one of the most competitive international research grants available. It funds early-career researchers who are ready to lead their own research program in Europe.
You may be eligible if you meet all of the following:
You do not need to be based in Europe today. If you secure a European host institution, you can relocate your research project there for the duration of the grant.
GrantHub’s eligibility tool can help you check which international programs accept Canadian applicants and what relocation requirements apply.
If you are earlier in your academic journey, internships may be a better fit than large research grants.
The Mitacs Globalink Research Internship supports international undergraduate students from partner countries who complete research projects at Canadian universities.
To qualify, you must:
Globalink often leads to:
While this program is not designed for Canadian students to go abroad, it is highly relevant for Canadian research teams and universities. Hosting international interns through Globalink helps Canadian institutions build global connections, access new perspectives, and foster future research collaborations.
Assuming citizenship determines eligibility
Many international research grants, including ERC Starting Grants, are open to all nationalities.
Missing the career-stage window
ERC strictly enforces the 2–7 year post-PhD rule. Extensions are limited and must be documented.
No confirmed host institution
For ERC grants, eligibility depends on securing a European host before applying.
Treating internships like grants
Internships focus on training and supervision, not independent research leadership.
Q: Can Canadians apply for ERC Starting Grants?
Yes. Researchers of any nationality can apply, as long as the research is hosted at an eligible European institution.
Q: Do I need to move to Europe to receive ERC funding?
Yes. The funded research project must be carried out at a European host institution for the duration of the grant.
Q: Is the ERC Starting Grant only for academics?
It targets researchers, but industry experience can strengthen your profile if you demonstrate research independence and publications.
Q: Are international research internships paid?
Programs like Mitacs Globalink provide stipends, travel support, and living allowances.
Q: Can Canadian students apply for Mitacs Globalink to go abroad?
No. The Mitacs Globalink Research Internship is for international students coming to Canada, not Canadian students going overseas. However, Canadian institutions benefit by hosting these interns.
Q: Can international grants be combined with Canadian funding?
Sometimes. It depends on overlap rules and whether costs are duplicated. Always check stacking policies before accepting multiple awards.
International research grants and internships are more accessible than most Canadians realize. Eligibility details matter, and it’s important to check requirements before applying. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and research funding programs across Canada and internationally. Visit GrantHub to check your eligibility today.
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