To catalyze STEM programs focusing on Equity Deserving Groups in the Atlantic region CISE Atlantic will continue the WISE Atlantic Partnerships Funding program under the new name CISE Atlantic Catalyze and Facilitate. The CISE Atlantic Catalyze and Facilitate program offers a unique opportunity for organizations within Atlantic Canada to seek one-time sponsorships to seed new dynamic programming, to build capacity in the region fostering equity, diversity and inclusion particularly for underrepresented individuals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The objective of this funding is to either launch new programs or expand existing ones, with an emphasis on ensuring their continuity beyond the duration of support from the CISE Atlantic Catalyze and Facilitate Program. It should be noted CISE Atlantic is focused on a broader range of underrepresented groups, building on the successful Chairs for Women in Science and Engineering (CWSE) program.. Preference will be given for the following specific initiatives that complement the expertise and geographic reach of the CISE chairs, specifically: coding and engineering programs, accessible science, 2SLGBTQ+, PEI and NB area programs; CISE Atlantic initiatives.
Please note that organizations may apply for sponsorship for a single year, with funding capped at $5,000 for new projects. Due to budget constraints, we may not be able to fully fund all projects or meet the requested funding levels. If a reduced amount of funding would jeopardize the project or necessitate significant modifications, please detail these circumstances in your proposal.
Questions, please contact: ciseatlantic@gmail.com
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for funding, an organization must fall into one of the following categories: a non-profit organization with a recognized registration number in the Atlantic region, an educational institution, or an entity affiliated with either a non-profit group or educational institution. We are unable to allocate funds to individuals or organizations that do not meet these criteria. It is important to note that the CISE Atlantic Catalyze and Program generally supports initiatives with broad-reaching impacts. Consequently, funding for individual teams, conference participation, or other isolated pursuits is not within the scope of this program.
Selection Criteria:
Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
1. Clearly articulated identification of the underrepresented group targeted by the project, along with the rationale for this focus.
2. A compelling demonstration of the project’s necessity, including considerations related to geography and sectors.
3. A description of the anticipated impact of the project, including an estimate of the number of individuals who will benefit.
4. A well-thought-out plan for the project’s sustainability after the funding period, with special attention to organizational capacity (if applicable, please indicate if the project is a pilot).
5. Evidence of organizational preparedness to manage the allocated funding, including feasibility.
6. Defined strategies for measuring the project’s success and/or plans for sharing project outcomes.
7. A comprehensive budget and a clear budget justification.
8. Funding decisions will be made based on recommendations from a review committee.
The WISEatlantic Partnerships Program is an opportunity for community organizations in Atlantic Canada to apply for small one-year sponsorships for new activities and/or projects that promote the outreach, recruitment, and retention of under-represented individuals in science, technology, engineering or math (STEM). Preference will be given to projects that target girls+ or women+ in STEM. The intention of the funding is to help establish or expand programs, and it is expected that projects have a plan for continuation after WISEatlantic Partnerships Program funding ends. Projects will only be funded once. Submissions in subsequent years must be fundamentally different from previously funded projects. Organizations may apply for a 1 year sponsorship of up to $4000 for new projects. The overall funding pool is limited, so it is anticipated that we may not be able to fund all projects, or may not be able to fund projects at the requested level. If receiving less funding than you applied for will cause the project to be cancelled or significantly modified, please include details in your proposal.
To be eligible to receive funds, an organization must either be a non-profit organization with a registration number that is recognized in the Atlantic region, an educational institution, or have an affiliation with either a non-profit group or educational institution. We are unable to transfer funds to individuals or organizations that do not meet these guidelines. Please note that the WISEatlantic Partnerships Program generally supports programs with a broad impact. Funding for teams, participation in conferences, and other individual pursuits is not permissible.
Phase 1: Abstract & Budget –
Phase 2: Project Pitch & Abstract Feedback
Phase 3: Final Application Submission
Phase 4: Funding Decision Announcement
Phase 5: Program Reporting