Context
Architek Group of Companies is committed to advancing sustainable practices in the built environment through innovative solutions in green roofs, living walls, green facades, and water conservation technologies. This grant supports pioneering research in sustainable landscapes for urban settings, focusing on design solutions (and including metrics) that address challenges related to urban green roofs, green walls, and water management in Ontario.
Architek believes in the necessity of creating built environments that foster sustainable site development, climate resilience, and enhance the human experience. The Architek Sustainable Urban Environment Grant aims to fund research leading to positive sustainable outcomes.
Topics
Examples of research to be supported by this grant (including, but not limited to):
- Hard Performance Data: such as thermal imaging: urban heat island reduction, HVAC and energy savings from green roofs, stormwater retention before/after (blue/green vs. green-only), biodiversity gains (pollinators, birds), noise reduction benefits
- Lifecycle Cost & ROI: Cost vs. savings over time (energy, stormwater fees, roof lifespan), Payback timelines (5/10/15 years), Public health offsets & improved asset value
- Policy & Procurement Tools: Case studies of successful mandates/incentives, Strategies to prevent green system cuts in tendering
- Design & Implementation Guides: Practical how-to’s, plus what to avoid, Real-world best practices and failures
Criteria
The Grant is open to Ontario based individuals or design firms. Individuals require a minimum of four (4) years of related professional work experience. The Grant is also open to PhD candidates doing directly related research.
Conditions
Grants may be considered for two phases of work, awarded via two separate applications to the Research Grants Program. Applicants may reapply for a second grant and are encouraged to define the rationale for a second phase of their work. In the case of an anticipated two phase program, the phases are as follows.
- Phase One Research, Phase Two Solutions. ($5,000 minimum for each phase)
- Phase One Grant may be awarded and completed and the applicant may apply for a second
- Phase Two Grant once the terms of the Phase One Grant are fulfilled
Procedure
Through the Research Grants process, the Jury reviews all applications to ensure that they meet the general grant criteria and determines whether a project is eligible for funding from this grant. Applicants can specify that they wish to be considered for this funding.
Funding
Professional Category: Grants up to $12,500 per project are available
Student Category: Grants up to $5,000 per project are available