Health Research BC works with institutions across the province that receive and administer research funding. As our organization and BC’s health research system evolve, the agreements that underpin those relationships must evolve too.
Health Research BC has introduced a new Administration Agreement for Grants, replacing the previous memoranda of understanding (MOU) with a modernized and consistent framework for participating institutions.
The shift from an MOU to a formal agreement is significant. The new agreement format provides greater clarity around the legal, financial, and audit responsibilities involved in administering Health Research BC funding.
A clearer, more consistent approach
The agreement is informed by best practices across Canada and follows a similar structure to those used by national research funding organizations.
It provides greater clarity around the responsibilities and expectations of Health Research BC and participating institutions, while creating a more consistent approach to funding administration.
Key updates include:
- recognizing the importance of equity, diversity and inclusion in research
- recognizing the need to eliminate Indigenous and race/ethnicity-based discrimination in research
- incorporating Health Research BC’s charitable status and purposes
- strengthening conflict of interest and resolution language
- incorporating independent review
The agreement will remain in place for five years, providing a consistent foundation for administering new Health Research BC funding. We will engage with participating institutions to review it at the end of the term to ensure it continues to reflect current needs and practices.
Embedding Indigenous perspectives
As part of developing the new agreement, Health Research BC engaged an Indigenous consultant to ensure appropriate language and cultural safety were considered. This work reflects our commitment to continually strengthening how our policies and practices support respectful and inclusive research relationships.
Moving forward together
Thank you to all participating institutions for their collaboration and engagement throughout the development and implementation of the new agreement.
Together, this work provides a clearer and more consistent foundation for how Health Research BC funding is administered across the province.
View the list of participating institutions.
Stay informed
Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on LinkedIn.
