Backgrounder

March 10, 2007

ONTARIO RESEARCH FUND - RESEARCH EXCELLENCE PROGRAM

Through the Research Excellence program of the Ontario Research Fund (ORF), the McGuinty government provides research institutions with funding to undertake major research projects, hire research teams and cover other operational costs.

Through the Ontario Research Fund, the McGuinty government is investing a total of $550 million over five years. The fund is a key part of the government’s plan to provide researchers with the tools they need to lead world-class research in Ontario. The Ontario Research Fund also helps researchers move new ideas from Ontario’s labs to the global marketplace.

The Ontario Research Fund is designed to provide one window for research funding. Proposals for funding are evaluated through a competitive, peer-review process. Funding is focused on priority sectors: 

• Agriculture
• Energy systems and technologies
• Environmental technologies
• Information and communications technologies
• Life sciences
• Materials and advanced manufacturing
• Emerging technologies.

For more information about the Ontario Research Fund, please visit www.ontario.ca/innovation.