The idea seemed simple enough last year when it was first announced: for every dollar provided for eligible university research by the private sector, the federal government would kick in another dollar, up to a maximum of 6 percent of the annual budget for each of the country's three research councils. Science and Technology Minister Frank Oberle said the formula would increase spending by as much as $3.4 billion ($2.5 billion U.S.) the next five years and that it would provide the councils with an unprecedented degree of financial stability.
Under the rules, universities that receive funds from the private sector may apply to the appropriate granting council for matching funds. Projects must contain a valid research component and include a specific goal for the work. The councils will decide which projects are acceptable, as well as the proportion of matching funds to be awarded and their destination—the university that ...
