Partnering with Defence R&D Canada

Partnership Programs

Defence Industrial Research Program

The Defence Industrial Research Program (DIRP) is a Defence R&D Canada cost-shared program that issues contracts to Canadian companies through Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC) for eligible research and development (R&D) projects at a 50% sharing ratio to a maximum Defence R&D contribution of $500,000 CND.

The primary objective of the DIRP is to support the strategic research interests of the Canadian Forces and to introduce new and innovative technologies into the Department of National Defence. In addition, the program supports and complements the areas of science and technology (S&T) expertise associated with Defence R&D Canada and is designed to provide research and innovation opportunities among the Canadian defence and security industrial base. The program is limited to funding proposals that have a specific defence research focus from the laboratory to the experimental model or proof-of-concept stage.

How to Apply

An announcement for a Call for Proposals will be placed on MERX – the government electronic tendering system located at www.merx.com. DIRP proposals may be accepted on a quarterly basis during the open seasons and based on available funding. An open season is a period of time during which applicants are invited to submit proposals. The open seasons for proposal submissions are April, July, October and January of each government fiscal year (April 1 to March 31).

The complete guidebook for the DIRP, which includes details on program evaluation and assessment criteria, can be accessed from the PWGSC web site at: www.merx.com.

Additional Information

A complete list of frequently asked questions is available here. For additional information and advice in preparing a DIRP proposal, please contact the DIRP Program Manager at dirp.prid@drdc-rddc.gc.ca.