First Nations University of Canada and Mitacs announce partnership to expand research and innovation opportunities

Regina, SK (Treaty 4 Territory) – First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) and Mitacs have entered into a new partnership that will expand opportunities for FNUniv students, faculty and researchers to participate in research, innovation, internships and professional development programs. 

The partnership will connect FNUniv students and researchers with organizations through research internships, collaborative projects and professional skills development, while strengthening connections between the University, industry, community organizations and other research partners. 

For FNUniv, the partnership represents an important step toward increasing opportunities for Indigenous students and researchers to gain practical experience, build professional networks and contribute their knowledge and perspectives to research and innovation. 

For Mitacs, this collaboration offers a meaningful opportunity to work alongside FNUniv to connect with and learn from Indigenous students, partners and communities and support greater Indigenous inclusion in research and innovation. 

“This agreement would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of our students and faculty members who have championed Mitacs programming at FNUniv. This reciprocal relationship will ensure that Indigenous voices are uplifted in the research and innovation landscape.”

Dr. Jessica Kolopenuk, Associate Vice-President, Health and Research at First Nations University of Canada. 

Through the agreement, FNUniv is eligible to participate in a suite of Mitacs programs, including Accelerate, Business Strategy Internship, Globalink Research Internship, Globalink Research Award and professional skills programming. The partnership also aligns with Mitacs’ Indigenous Pathways initiative, which helps expand access to research and innovation opportunities for Indigenous students, researchers, partner organizations and communities. Together, these programs support post-secondary students, recent graduates and postdoctoral fellows through research partnerships, internships and professional development opportunities. 

The partnership will help FNUniv students and researchers apply their knowledge and skills to real-world projects and challenges while building relationships with organizations across a range of sectors and disciplines. 

“Student talent is one of our most valuable assets. This partnership will connect some of First Nations University’s brightest students and researchers with Mitacs’ national network of industry partners, turning their ideas and expertise into real projects, and real economic and social impact. Indigenous knowledge and leadership have always been part of Canada’s innovation story.” 

Dr. Stephen Lucas, CEO of Mitacs

For students, the partnership will provide additional opportunities to gain hands-on experience, develop professional skills and networks, and apply their academic knowledge beyond the classroom.  

“Through this opportunity, I’ve been able to take what I’m learning at FNUniv and apply it to meaningful research with the Saskatchewan Soccer Association,” says Nathaniel Merasty, an Indigenous Business and Public Administration student at First Nations University of Canada participating in a Mitacs-supported research project. “It has shown me that Indigenous students have an important place in research and innovation, and that the knowledge and perspectives we bring can help shape work that is meaningful for our communities and for future generations.” 

FNUniv will work to promote Mitacs opportunities to students, faculty, alumni and researchers across the University, helping to broaden participation in research, internships and professional development. 

The partnership also supports Saskatchewan’s priorities in post-secondary education, research, innovation and workforce development by helping create pathways for Indigenous students and researchers to develop skills and contribute to the province’s future. 

“This partnership will create new opportunities for First Nations University of Canada students and researchers to participate in research, innovation and experiential learning. Through direct access to Mitacs programs, more students will be able to gain valuable hands-on experience, develop in-demand skills and build connections that support their future careers. Our government is proud to provide $1.15 million of funding to support partnerships that help Saskatchewan learners succeed.” 

The Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff, Minister of Advanced Education

The agreement establishes a framework for FNUniv’s participation in Mitacs programs and future Mitacs-supported projects. Individual projects and awards will be considered through Mitacs program application and approval processes. 

The agreement took effect June 1, 2026, and was signed by FNUniv President Dr. Jacqueline Ottmann and Mitacs CEO Dr. Stephen Lucas on June 4, 2026. 

About First Nations University of Canada 

Established in 1976, the First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) is a leading Indigenous-owned post-secondary institution dedicated to advancing Indigenous knowledge and education. FNUniv serves both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, delivering high-quality post-secondary programs rooted in Indigenous knowledge systems, languages and cultures. FNUniv operates campuses in Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert, as well as the nēwoskan Traditional Campus near St. Louis, Saskatchewan. 

Learn more at www.fnuniv.ca. 

About Mitacs 

Mitacs delivers the return on innovation Canada needs now by connecting big ideas, people, and ambition to turn potential into results. Mitacs co-funds innovation partnerships that get Canada’s researchers and businesses where they need to go. Mitacs partners innovate faster. Commercialize sooner. Compete globally. Scale and grow stronger. We open the door to opportunity, creating jobs and equipping students and postdoctoral researchers with skills, industry experience, and professional networks. Mitacs is funded by the Government of Canada, the Government of Alberta, the Government of British Columbia, Research Manitoba, the Government of New Brunswick, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Government of Nova Scotia, the Government of Ontario, Innovation PEI, the Government of Quebec, the Government of Saskatchewan, and the Government of Yukon. Learn more at www.mitacs.ca. 

Media Contacts:
Katherine Janson
Director of Communications and Public Affairs
Mitacs
[email protected]   

Kristin Francis
Director of Communications, University Relations
First Nations University of Canada
[email protected]