Finding the right R&D partner can stall even strong innovation projects. Canada’s Research Facilities Navigator solves this by showing you where specialized labs, equipment, and researchers are located across the country. The tool is run by the Canada Foundation for Innovation and is open to businesses looking to collaborate with public research institutions.
If you need testing capacity, product validation, or academic expertise, the Research Facilities Navigator can point you to partners faster than cold outreach.
The Research Facilities Navigator is a national directory, not a funding program. It helps you find and connect with research infrastructure funded by the federal government, including:
The program is administered by the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) and is federally available to businesses across Canada.
Using the Research Facilities Navigator, your business can:
There is no funding amount attached to the Navigator itself. Any costs for facility access are set by the host institution.
Before searching, be clear about what you need. Strong searches usually start with:
This saves time and leads to better-fit partners.
The Research Facilities Navigator lets you search across Canada by:
Each listing shows what the facility offers and who to contact.
Not all facilities operate the same way. Review:
Some facilities prioritize applied research, which is often a better fit for SMEs.
When reaching out, include:
Facilities are more responsive when the request is specific and realistic.
The Navigator does not standardize terms. Each partnership is negotiated directly with the institution. Expect to discuss:
Document these clearly before work begins.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter funding programs that support collaborative R&D once you identify a research partner.
While the Research Facilities Navigator does not provide direct funding, it often plays a supporting role in funded projects.
Working with recognized research institutions can help when applying for:
The Navigator helps you find credible partners that strengthen these applications.
Assuming it’s a grant program
The Navigator helps you find facilities, not money. Budget separately for access costs.
Contacting facilities without a clear project scope
Vague requests often go unanswered. Be specific about your R&D goal.
Ignoring access policies
Some facilities have limited industry availability or long lead times.
Waiting too late in your project
Research facilities can have scheduling constraints. Start outreach early.
Q: Is the Research Facilities Navigator a funding program?
No. It does not provide grants or subsidies. It connects businesses with research infrastructure and expertise.
Q: Who can use the Research Facilities Navigator?
Businesses, researchers, and organizations across Canada can use it, including startups and SMEs.
Q: Does it cost money to use research facilities listed in the Navigator?
Access costs depend on the institution. Some charge user fees, while others structure costs within research agreements.
Q: Can startups use university labs through the Navigator?
Yes. Startups can connect with universities and colleges, subject to partnership terms and facility policies.
Q: Can Navigator-based collaborations support SR&ED claims?
They can. Documented experimental R&D conducted with research institutions may support SR&ED or other funding applications, depending on your project.
The Research Facilities Navigator helps you find the right R&D partners. The next challenge is identifying which grants and programs can support that collaboration. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada — check which ones align with your business, industry, and research plans.
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