NEWS | University of Toronto Black Research Network

Research Opportunities & Funding

Discover grants, fellowships, and awards designed to support Black researchers and advance innovative research

$92,750

BRN IGNITE Grant

OPEN

Supporting innovative public health research projects that address community needs and advance biospecimen science.

  • Eligibility: U of T researchers & community partners
  • Deadline: September 30, 2026
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Funding: Up to $92,750 per project
Apply Now
$25,000

Black Graduate Scholar Award

OPEN

Supporting exceptional Black graduate students conducting research in areas aligned with BRN's mission and values.

  • Eligibility: Black graduate students at U of T
  • Deadline: August 15, 2026
  • Duration: 1 year
  • Funding: $25,000 per scholar
Apply Now
$75,000

Faculty Fellowship Program

OPEN

Supporting faculty members conducting transformative research in biospecimen science, health equity, and community engagement.

  • Eligibility: U of T faculty members
  • Deadline: October 31, 2026
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Funding: Up to $75,000
Apply Now
$10,000

Community Partnership Grant

OPEN

Supporting partnerships between researchers and community organizations to co-develop research that addresses local needs.

  • Eligibility: Community organizations with researcher partners
  • Deadline: July 31, 2026
  • Duration: 1 year
  • Funding: Up to $10,000
Apply Now
$50,000

Connaught Major Research Challenge

CLOSED

Coordinated by the Connaught Fund and BRN to support major research challenges addressing Black health and wellness.

  • Eligibility: Black researchers at U of T
  • Deadline: Closed
  • Duration: 3 years
  • Funding: $50,000 - $150,000
$5,000

Student Research Assistant Awards

OPEN

Providing undergraduate and graduate students with opportunities to gain research experience in BRN-affiliated projects.

  • Eligibility: U of T students
  • Deadline: Rolling basis
  • Duration: Summer/Fall terms
  • Funding: $5,000 per position
Apply Now

How to Apply

1

Review Guidelines

Read the complete program guidelines and eligibility requirements carefully before starting your application.

2

Prepare Materials

Gather all required documents including research proposal, CV, budget, and letters of support.

3

Submit Application

Complete the online application form and submit all materials before the deadline.

4

Await Decision

Applications are reviewed by our committee. Decisions are typically announced within 8-10 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply for BRN grants? ▼
Eligibility varies by program. Generally, BRN grants are open to University of Toronto faculty, graduate students, and community organizations with research partnerships. Please review specific program guidelines for detailed eligibility requirements.
Can I apply for multiple grants simultaneously? ▼
Yes, you can apply for multiple programs, but you can only receive funding from one program per funding cycle. Please review each program's specific policies on concurrent applications.
What types of research does BRN fund? ▼
BRN funds research that aligns with our mission of uniting researchers and communities through biospecimen innovation. This includes public health research, community-based participatory research, health equity studies, and interdisciplinary projects addressing Black health and wellness.
How are applications reviewed? ▼
Applications are reviewed by a committee of experts including BRN leadership, faculty members, and community representatives. Review criteria include research merit, community impact, feasibility, budget appropriateness, and alignment with BRN's mission.
When will I hear about my application decision? ▼
Decisions are typically announced within 8-10 weeks of the application deadline. All applicants will receive notification via email regardless of the outcome.

Have Questions About Our Opportunities?

Our team is here to help you find the right funding opportunity for your research

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