NCE shortlists 11 for 2018-19 competition

The Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCE) has announced 11 shortlisted candidates that will proceed to the next phase of the 2018-19 competition that is open to both new and established networks. The 11 networks bested 58 other proposals and will submit full proposals by July. This competition marks the first time both new and established networks are competing for funding worth $75M over five years. Previously, networks that have completed funding cycles were not eligible for new funding. Two established NCEs that made it to the shortlist are ArcticNet, which is studying integrated natural, human health and social changes of the coastal Canadian Arctic and funded up to 2019, and Stem Cell Network led by Univ of Ottawa and which was funded up to 2017. The competition guidelines say established NCEs that have ended their funding or whose funding will end by March 31, 2019 are qualified to participate. Another shortlisted network, Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery, says on its website that a successful application would help it continue the legacy of the Canadian Stroke Network, an NCE which was funded until 2014. The other shortlisted candidates are: Biolnnovative Renewables Network (BIRNet) and NanoMedicines Innovation Network, led by Univ of British Columbia; Canadian Mountain Network (CMN) and One-Transplant-for-Life Canada (Transplant Canada) led by Univ of Alberta; Data Science Research & Innovation Network and Canada Mitochondrial Network, Univ of Toronto; Making the Shift - Youth Homelessness Solutions Impact Accelerator, York Univ; and Technology, Research, Analytics, Network, Systems FOR Managing Heart Failure, University Health Network. Approximately 40% of the funding is available to new networks. Established networks are expected to demonstrate how they plan to enhance or expand previous activities, scope or impacts. Competition results are expected by October.