Note: Applications for the 2025-2026 I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship™ program are now closed. Please sign up for our newsletter and revisit this page for future scholarship updates.
Inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA) are critical to driving innovation and growth in the Canadian bio-economy. Yet, a lot of talent is not well represented in the sector. Only 9% of recent immigrants are represented in the workplace, while Persons with disabilities and Indigenous Peoples represent a mere combined 1%.
The I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship™ focuses on improving the representation of equity-deserving groups in the sector while helping students achieve their academic goals in biosciences.
Voices of I.D.E.A.L. Scholars
Each year, the I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship™ uplifts futures, strengthens communities, and celebrates the diverse voices shaping Canada’s bio-economy. We are honoured to share reflections from two Indigenous recipients whose stories highlight resilience, leadership, and the importance of representation.
2025 Recipient: Thunder Crowshoe (Piikani Nation, Blackfoot Nation), Indigenous category
“Living with chronic illness and navigating systemic barriers hasn’t been easy, but it has strengthened my resolve. I want to ensure that future scientists see diversity as essential to research excellence and that our labs and classrooms are places where everyone can thrive.” (Story to come)
2024 Recipient: Carter Yott (Mi’kmaq Nation), Indigenous category
“I am deeply honoured to receive the I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship™. This support not only helps me pursue my passion for engineering but also strengthens my resolve to advocate for inclusion and equity in my field”. Read the full story here.
Why Apply?
The I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship™ offers more than financial support; it sparks opportunities that make a lasting difference in recipients’ careers, communities, and the bio-economy across Canada. By applying for this scholarship, students unlock advantages such as:
- Launching a career in biosciences: Recipients gain the financial resources needed to complete their diploma or degree, setting a strong foundation for success in biosciences.
- Enhancing resilience and opportunity: A diverse workforce is better equipped to adapt to change, develop innovative bio-based products, and drive economic prosperity in communities across Canada, from rural areas to urban innovation hubs. Graduates play a vital role in expanding Canada’s competitiveness in renewable energy, advanced materials, sustainable practices, and emerging industries.
How much will I receive?
This year, BioTalent Canada will award three $10,000 scholarships to students entering their first year of study in a biosciences-related accredited program.
Please note, the scholarship amount for CEGEP programs (Collège d’enseignement général et professionnel), will be $5,000.
Criteria and Eligibility
To qualify for the I.D.E.A.L Scholarship™, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A student entering their first year of post-secondary studies
- A Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident of Canada
- Provide documentation confirming they will be entering their first year of study in a biosciences– related program in an accredited college, university or CEGEP in Canada
- Express financial need
- Proof of academic achievement (e.g. latest academic transcript)
- Categories for 2026-2027 will be announced in the coming months
Students can not be directly related to BioTalent Canada team members or board members.
Meet Our Scholarship Recipients
Below are the outstanding students honoured with the I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship™. Each recipient brings unique strengths and perspectives that are helping to grow and innovate Canada’s bio-economy.
2025 Recipients
- Gayoung Park – Newcomer to Canada stream
- Thunder Crowshoe (Piikani Nation, Blackfoot Nation) – Indigenous stream (Impact story coming soon)
- Yusuf Patel – Persons with a Disability stream
2024 Recipients
