Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I apply for a collaborative grant again if last year’s application was not accepted?
Please do! We received so many excellent applications last year that we were unable to fund. The review committee would love to have the chance to consider your updated project again.

What is the length of time for a collaborative grant, as envisioned by the program?
Collaborative grants are intended to provide funding from July 1, 2024 through March 31, 2025.

Can the grant period be extended?
Projects should be designed so as to be completed within the grant period. That said, we understand that some deliverables will not be complete by the end of the grant period.  Extensions on deliverables, but not events, meetings, or workshops, may be granted on a case-by-case basis. 

What topics are eligible?
Collaborative grants support interdisciplinary research into social phenomena and proposed topics should foreground social issues and analysis.

What may collaborative grant funds be used for?
Collaborative grants are intended to fund activities directly related to the planning of collaborative research/fact-finding initiatives and dissemination, such as (but not limited to) research, networking, virtual or in person public events, project completion, podcast production, media products, reporting projects, etc. 

Eligible expenses for these activities may include travel, accommodation, and convening costs. Significant allowances for research-related costs are not appropriate for this grant. However, modest funds for some background or pilot research, which may include research assistance, may be eligible if those activities clearly support the project. Collaborative grants may not be used as a substitute or supplement for salaries and may not be used for the purchase of equipment. However, funds may be allocated for honoraria, consultant fees, and interview or focus group costs. The grant cannot provide administrative support or cover indirect costs or overhead. 

May a collaborative grant project be part of a larger or longer-term project?
Yes. If the project for which support is being requested is part of a larger or longer-term project, please include the full budget for the project and indicate which expenses would be allocated to the collaborative grant.

How many members may join a project team?
The project team must be a minimum of three people. Additional team members may be included as appropriate to the project. In general, the size of your research team should correspond with your proposed project and the tasks required to accomplish your project goals.

Do I need to complete the application in one sitting?
No. You may return to the application as many times as needed until the application deadline. Please remember to save your work as you complete each section of the application and note that once applications are submitted, they cannot be altered.

May I submit my application by fax or email?
No. Applications should be submitted via the online application portal only.

How can I find out whether the program has received my application?
You will receive an automated email from the SSRC confirming submission of your application.

What is the review procedure?
Applications will be reviewed through a peer review process.