Safer passage during minefield breaching operations in Ukraine

IDEaS is seeking game-changing disruptive solutions that enable an army to maneuver through a complex heavily defended minefield. 

The Department of National Defence (DND) and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are seeking early-stage solutions (Technology Readiness Level 1-6) for detecting mines and other obstacles in modern minefields, and clearing a route through the minefield by defeating them in some manner. Technologies developed will support capabilities in Ukraine as well as advance the capabilities of the CAF in future minefield breaching or clearance initiatives.

Funding of up to $1 million per project will be awarded to develop innovative concepts for a period of up to 12 months. Following concept development, successful innovators may be invited to demonstrate promising technologies to military experts and relevant stakeholders.  

Eligibility

The applicant and their partners must be a legal entity duly incorporated and validly existing in Canada, including:

• Canadian universities and educational institutions chartered in Canada
• Incorporated Canadian not-for-profit organizations or associations
• Incorporated Canadian for-profit companies, organizations or associations
• Provincial/territorial, or municipal government organizations

Federal and provincial crown corporations are not eligible for funding.

While partners collaborating on IDEaS projects must be legally incorporated in Canada, Canadian innovators are encouraged to learn from the real-world experience of Ukrainians. Under a contribution agreement, consultant services are an eligible cost. In no case can more than 50% of eligible costs be incurred outside of Canada.

NOTE: IDEaS encourages collaboration between Ukrainian counterparts and Canadian innovators. If a Ukrainian entity believes they can contribute to this challenge, please email ideascontests.ideesconcours@forces.gc.ca and we will provide further details.

How to apply

• Email ideascontests.ideesconcours@forces.gc.ca to receive a copy of the applicant's package.
• Applicants must review and ensure they meet the eligibility criteria.
• Return a completed applicant's package.

When an application has been submitted, a notification will be sent acknowledging its receipt. This may take up to five business days.

Application deadline

Applications will be accepted until May 28, 2024, at 2:00 PM EDT.