Implementation of Updated MOU Between Mitacs and NSERC

Mitacs and NSERC have signed an amended Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the 2025–2026 fiscal year. This agreement introduces a streamlined, two-part application process for joint Mitacs–NSERC applications and includes changes to the joint funding model, coming in April 2026.

Transition Period

Phasing Out the Existing (Previous) Application Process

Joint Mitacs–NSERC applications using the previous format can still be submitted until May 30, 2025, if already under development.

Mitacs and Western will monitor submissions to manage institutional allocations in Ontario. Projects using the previous template may be limited in size or duration, especially if they involve:

  • Multiple TBD interns; and/or
  • An unclear recruitment plan.

Proposals using the old template that are declined after May 30, 2025, must either:

  • Resubmit using the new process; or
  • Submit a standalone Mitacs Accelerate application.

New Two-Part Process

Available April 2025

The updated model separates applications into two distinct phases:

  • Part 1 – Project Approval (with NSERC Application)
    • The Mitacs application is submitted alongside the NSERC application to Mitacs.
    • The Mitacs application describes the alignment of Mitacs internships with the NSERC-funded research.
    • The application requires a recruitment plan.
    • The application enables Mitacs to verify and sign off for eligibility.

  • Part 2 – Intern Activation
    • Intern activation is submitted only after Part 1 is approved.
    • Activations must include named interns (no TBDs permitted) and specific project/methodology details.
    • Internship units will only count toward institutional allocations in the fiscal year they are activated, helping preserve unused allocation.

Updated Funding Structure

With our new funding agreement under the Strategic Science Fund, starting April 1, 2026, Mitacs can no longer match industry funding supporting another federal program, such as NSERC.  

As a result, the current joint model – where the same industry funds support both NSERC and Mitacs Accelerate – will be phased out. Key deadlines for joint submissions using shared industry contributions are listed below:

  • May 30, 2025 – Final date to submit applications using the old joint application template;
  • December 19, 2025 – Deadline to submit the completed NSERC Alliance and Mitacs Part 1 joint proposal using the new streamlined application process, and remain eligible for the joint NSERC–Mitacs matching option; and
  • March 4, 2026 – Final deadline to submit Part 2 forms with named interns to take advantage of the joint funding.
    • If interns are named after March 4, 2026 (i.e., if Part 2 is submitted after this date), those interns will not be eligible for joint funding leverage. TBD interns will not qualify.

Projects submitted after these deadlines will still benefit from the streamlined application process but will not be eligible for shared funding leverage. Independent matching will be required for each program.

Recommendations for Researchers

  • Plan proactively if you are considering a joint NSERC–Mitacs project this year.
  • Submit the joint NSERC-Mitacs (Part 1) application by December 19, 2025, and named interns (Part 2) by March 4, 2026, to retain joint leverage.
  • Avoid submitting projects with multiple TBDs or weak recruitment plans, especially under the old application process.

Contact

The Mitacs team is available to help interpret these changes, recommend the appropriate application route, and support your budget and submission process. For questions, please contact:

  • Joseph Santarelli (jsantarelli@mitacs.ca) for the Faculty of Engineering; or
  • Wilson Luo (wluo@mitacs.ca) for the Faculty of Science, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, and other Faculties at Western.