CREATE Grant

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The CREATE program and grants support innovative research training and mentorship programs for graduate students and postgraduate fellows in the natural sciences and engineering (NSE). These programs encourage collaboration, address scientific challenges, and facilitate the transition of researchers into various sectors.

For competition year 26-27: If you are planning on applying to the 2027 NSERC CREATE program, please fill out this internal Registration/Request to Apply form by February 6, 2026.

The 2027 applicant guide will be available in February-March, 2026. The 2025 U of A Internal Applicant Guide is available for reference. Decisions on internal adjudication will be based on RTAs received by February 6.

NSERC CREATE Information Webinar Recordings for Prospective Applicants (CY26-27)

English session

Slides | Recording

French session

Slides | Recording

Summary

Intended Recipients

Natural sciences and engineering (NSE) researchers developing and delivering novel research training and mentorship programs for graduate students

Value

Up to $1.65 million over six years (Up to $150,000 for the first year, followed by up to $300,000/year for five subsequent years)

Duration

Up to six years

Additional Information

NSERC CREATE Grant website

Deadlines

Internal Registration

Letter of Intent

  • RAS Internal Review Deadline
    • April 24, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. MST (Submit application to RAS via the Researcher Home Page)
  • Final Version Submission Deadline and NSERC Deadline
    • May 1, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. MST (Submit final LOI to NSERC via their online system)

Full Application

  • RAS Internal Review Deadline
    • September 15, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. MST (Submit application to RAS via the Researcher Home Page)
  • Final Version Submission Deadline
    • September 22, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. MST (Submit final application to the NSERC via their online system)
  • NSERC Deadline
    • September 22, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. MST

Supports + Resources

Support for researchers

Please reach out to the designated Research Partner: Hui Wang

Samples of Successful CREATE Grant Applications

To access samples of successful applications from previous CREATE Grant competitions, please complete the request form available.

Please be aware that the sample grants in our library represent applications submitted in recent years. As application requirements and formats are subject to ongoing changes, it is crucial to consult the latest information provided by NSERC to ensure your CREATE application aligns with the current competition guidelines.

We kindly request that you refrain from duplicating or distributing any sample applications used for reference in developing your own grant proposal.

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