Call for proposals goes out on January 7, 2026.

Notice of Intent is due February 13, 2026.  Proposals are due March 15, 2026.

Decisions will be made by early April 2026.

Students must begin work on May 1, 2026. They will have one year to complete the project.

Students will present progress updates in the Fall of 2026.

Student groups will present research outcomes in BIMR seminar program in spring of 2027, prior to next round of competition.

This program is open to graduate students only.

Must include collaboration between at least 2 different research groups. Preference for collaboration between different departments/faculties, but 2 different research groups within the same department will be accepted.

Must be a topic relevant to Materials Research.

Projects must be new (existing collaborative projects are not eligible)

Winning projects will be awarded grants of up to $5,000 available to fund graduate student ideas.

Winning proposals will additionally receive a $1,000 scholarship for the principal applicants.

Funds can be used for materials, supplies, consumables, instrument time.

Any unspent funds at the end of 1 year will be recovered by BIMR unless project extension is granted (students can request extension of up to 6 months).

1. Have an idea
2. Find your collaborators.
3. Download our Notice of Intent form: BIMR Future Materials Innovators Program NOI. Send the completed document to bimr@mcmaster.ca by February 13, 2026.
4. Download our Application Form: BIMR Future Materials Innovators Program Application. Fill it out and sent it to bimr@mcmaster.ca by March 15, 2026.
5. Do not forget to include a link to your video pitch in the application form! Videos to be uploaded on Vimeo.com
6. Winning projects will be announced in April 2026!