Specific Priorities grants support investigator-led research that addresses priority topics of interest to WorkSafeBC and that informs policy, practice, or decision making. Research topics are identified by WorkSafeBC, but the research question, design, methods, analysis, and conclusions must be led by the applicant or research team.

Funding opportunities are posted through a topic-specific request for proposals (RFP) and are intended for academic researchers with demonstrated expertise in the topic area. Projects must respond to a defined WorkSafeBC research question or business need.

Eligibility criteria

Principal applicant must be:

• An experienced academic researcher with demonstrated expertise and a track record of publications relevant to the research questions identified in the RFP.
• Applicants must be affiliated with a recognized university or research institution. 

Other eligibility criteria:

• Canadian affiliation may be required, as specified in the RFP.
• International researchers may apply when permitted in the RFP and where the proposed work addresses WorkSafeBC business needs relevant to B.C. workplaces or industries.
• WorkSafeBC employees and contractors are not eligible to apply as principal applicants but may participate as co-applicants.

Funding amount and duration

The funding amount for this grant depends on each project.

Applicants must provide a detailed budget and clear justification showing that the requested amount is proportionate to the scope, complexity, and potential impact of the proposed research.

Key dates and deadlines

Funding opportunity status

This funding opportunity is closed. RFPs are generally issued in the Fall and Spring. Application dates and deadlines will be posted on this page when available.

How to apply

1. Download and review Specific Priorities application form to confirm you meet all the eligibility requirements and have all the materials needed to apply.
2. Complete the application form (fillable Word document).
3. Submit your application package, with all required documentation by the application deadline and follow the instructions in the application form.

As you put together your application, you may find it helpful to review the Research Grant Agreement, as well as refer to the resources under Funding conditions and guidelines below.

Important information:

• Incomplete application packages will not be accepted. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure all required materials are submitted.
• If your project involves human subjects or biological materials, you are responsible for observing all ethical guidelines concerning experimentation. Successful applicants must submit ethics approval certificates before we can release grant funds. Approval certificates are not required at the time of application.

Funding conditions and guidelines:

If WorkSafeBC awards you a research grant, you will need to sign a Research Grant Agreement before funding can be released. This agreement lays out the specific conditions of the grant and any related requirements.

The following schedules and guidelines provide more details about the funding conditions for this grant:

• Schedule A: Research Project
• Schedule A-1: Research Project Workplan
• Schedule B: Research Grant Funding
• Schedule C: Statement of Account
• Schedule D: Reports
• Schedule E: Privacy Protection Schedule
• Guidelines for allowable travel expenses 

Recently funded projects

Select a year below to view the list of previous award recipients: