The MINDS Policy Challenges are rooted in the recent defence policy review, Our North, Strong and Free (ONSAF), reflecting the most pressing issues facing the Defence Team and representing areas where collaboration and knowledge transfer among the defence and security expert community is most needed at this time.

MINDS is founded on the idea that policy- and decision-making are strengthened when assumptions are challenged and diverse viewpoints are considered. MINDS provides opportunities for collaboration between the Defence Team and the defence and security expert community through a program that:

  • responds to the needs for relevant and timely advice from defence and security experts;
  • fosters the next generation of experts and scholars; and,
  • contributes to Canadians’ understanding of defence and security issues.

When applying to receive MINDS funding, project proposals must align with these priorities to demonstrate relevance. The challenges are refreshed annually through consultations with senior leaders from across the Defence Team to ensure MINDS and its external partners deliver the most relevant, actionable, and timely insights.

The Challenges

To apply

  1. Complete the Targeted Engagement Grant Application Form or Young Minds Targeted Engagement Grants Application Form.
    1. Please refer to the Targeted Engagement Grant Application Guide as you complete your application form
  2. Submit the completed application electronically to MINDS@forces.gc.ca.
  3. Applications must be relevant and align with the MINDS defence policy challenges.
  4. Applicants must demonstrate how the project includes diverse perspectives through the use of Gender-based Analysis Plus (GBA+), as well as innovation and the creative use of technology.
  5. A proposed budget, a breakdown of spending by category, and a list of additional funding sources, must also be included in the application. The Department of National Defence should not be the only source of funding for a grant proposal.