WorkSafeBC opens $100,000 prototype grants for workplace safety innovations

What this funding supports

WorkSafeBC's Proof of Principle and Prototyping grant program funds research projects that develop practical tools or technology for use in the workplace to address health, safety, or work disability challenges. Funding is designed for early-stage projects focused on creating and validating a new concept, tool, or technology such as a prototype, device, software application, or digital tool.

Projects must demonstrate feasibility or proof of concept to lay the groundwork for further development or future funding opportunities. The research should progress toward readiness for real-world testing in a relevant workplace environment.

Who is eligible to apply

Applicants must meet specific criteria related to expertise, residency, and project scope. The principal applicant must be a Canadian resident, though international researchers may participate as co-applicants. WorkSafeBC employees and contractors are not eligible to serve as principal applicants but may participate on the project team.

At least one team member must have expertise in research design and methodology, including the ability to select appropriate research methods, analyze data, and interpret findings to demonstrate real-world applicability. The principal applicant or a co-applicant may work directly in the workplace or industry targeted by the project and must play an active, substantive role.

Projects must focus on developing a tangible product and cannot consist solely of knowledge outputs such as reports, frameworks, or guides. Research topics must align with WorkSafeBC's stated research priorities, and projects should generally fall within Technology Readiness Levels 1–6. If human subjects or biological materials are involved, applicants must follow all ethical guidelines and obtain ethics approval before funds are released.

How to apply

Interested researchers should download the Proof of Principle and Prototyping Application form from the WorkSafeBC website to confirm eligibility and identify required supporting materials. The completed fillable Word document form and all required documentation must be submitted by January 15, 2027.

WorkSafeBC emphasizes that incomplete application packages will not be accepted; applicants bear responsibility for ensuring all required materials are included. Successful applicants will sign a Research Grant Agreement before funding is released, which outlines the specific terms and conditions of the grant.

• Review the application form and supporting materials early
• Ensure all required documentation is submitted before the deadline
• Consult the Research Grant Agreement and funding conditions guidelines

Recent projects funded

WorkSafeBC has funded a range of workplace safety and health innovations through this program in recent years. Recent recipients include research on violence prevention in psychiatric healthcare workplaces, safety management systems to reduce serious incidents, and acoustic warning systems for field safety. Funding amounts for individual projects have typically ranged from approximately $40,000 to $100,000.