The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) is pleased to announce $35 million in funding through its Collaborative Research and Training Experience (CREATE) program. This year, 16 regular initiatives and five themed initiatives will receive support to help new researchers develop the skills and experience they need to thrive in Canada’s evolving workforce.

The 2026 competition includes four genomics‑themed training initiatives supported through the Canadian Genomics Strategy and one quantum‑themed training initiative supported through Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy. In partnership with Canadian Heritage, NSERC has also awarded 13 supplements to eligible active CREATE awards across seven universities to further enhance French‑language research training.

The CREATE program drives the development of talent pipelines through large-scale and highly networked initiatives. The program supports the training and mentoring of highly qualified students and postdoctoral researchers through enriched, collaborative training environments to improve their job readiness for careers across a wide range of sectors, including industry, government, non‑governmental organizations, and academia. Over the six-year funding period, participants will deepen their expertise in cutting‑edge technologies and benefit from meaningful networking opportunities and mobility experiences, including through internships and exchanges.

CREATE provides students with more than just a world-class education; it offers real-world experiences and the professional skills needed to thrive in the industries of the future. With today’s announcement, we are bridging the gap between the lab and the workforce while ensuring Canada has  the expertise to remain a global leader in innovation.

Learn more about the CREATE programs funded in 2026.