The Government of Canada's Public Safety Canada Department has announced a Call for Proposals for Search and Rescue New Initiatives Fund.

The intent of the Search and Rescue New Initiatives Funds (SAR NIF) is to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, economy, and innovation of search and rescue activities as it relates to the response and prevention objectives of the National Search and Rescue Program (NSP).

The goal of the NSP is a Canada where the critical importance of search and rescue is reflected in a multi-jurisdictional approach to promoting individual, collective and organizational behaviors that minimize the risk of injury or loss of life while maintaining timely and effective response services.

Objectives

Achievement of this goal rests on two primary objectives:

• Prevention: Educate individuals and organizations on the assessment of risks and the importance of acquiring and using the knowledge, skills and equipment needed to minimize injury and/or loss of life;
• Response: Ensure an effective and capable SAR response in all areas of Canada.

Priority Areas

• Strengthen the National Coordination of Search and Rescue
• Emphasize and Effectively Coordinate SAR Prevention Efforts
• SAR in Indigenous Communities

Funding Information

The annual SAR NIF budget is $7.6M. With multi-year projects ongoing the availability of funds for new projects will vary from year to year.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligible recipients of the Program include provincial and territorial governments, profit and not-for-profit Canadian organizations and volunteer associations, and academia.

Those applying for SAR NIF funding must meet the following requirements in order for their application to be considered for funding:

• Be an eligible recipient;
• Have a minimum of 5% of in-kind or cash contributions towards overall project cost from sources other than PS which are backed up by signed letters of commitment (cost-sharing);
• Complete SAR NIF Application for Funding, including the Project Budget, and Project Work Plan.

Applicants must submit their application and all related documentation by the deadline specified in the current year SAR NIF Call for Proposals.

For more information, visit Government of Canada.