OCUL provides annual financial support through its New Initiatives Fund for initiatives and projects that align with the consortium's strategic priorities and have an impact for all member libraries.
The New Initiatives Fund (NIF) was established to provide financial support for “significant strategic actions or rapid responses to a changing technology environment” (OCUL Financial Framework, 2012). It is the annual opportunity to apply for substantive funding from OCUL.
Funded initiatives/projects must enhance the teaching, learning, and research environment for Ontario university libraries. Initiatives/projects can be for 1-3 years.
Full details about project requirements and criteria are available in the NIF Terms of Reference (PDF).
Eligibility
Proposals can be submitted by Scholars Portal, OCUL Communities, OCUL Committees (standing or ad hoc), Subcommittees, Working Groups, Task Groups, and other entities that are part of the OCUL governance structure.
Proposals must demonstrate a clear connection to OCUL priorities and proposals from external groups must be submitted in partnership with OCUL as a whole or with an entity that is part of the consortium’s governance structure.
All proposals must have the endorsement of the chair/moderator of an OCUL Committee, Community or other OCUL governance group.
Proposal Submission
OCUL issues an annual call for proposals in August. Proposals must be submitted to ocul@ocul.on.ca by September 15.
A business case and budget form a NIF proposal. Templates for the business case and budget are provided by OCUL.
OCUL members can access templates via SPOTDocs (login required).
Adjudication and Reporting
Following the submission deadline, the OCUL Executive Committee assesses received proposals based on their fit with the NIF terms of reference and OCUL’s current strategic focus. Assignment of funds must also align with OCUL’s Operating Principles and Financial Framework (PDF).
Successful applicants are required to provide a report to the OCUL Executive Committee on the initiative/project, with emphasis on the metrics identified in the proposal.
For More Information
Please email questions about the OCUL New Initiatives Fund to ocul@ocul.on.ca.