HBI Community Connect Fund

HBI Community Connect provides modest funding for informal gatherings to strengthen connection, collaboration, & sense of belonging across the institute.

Before submitting an application, please review the following program guidelines.

Eligibility:
The lead applicant must be an HBI-affiliated member within the University of Calgary. Applications are open to:

• Graduate students and clinical fellows
• Postdoctoral fellows
• Members, researchers and staff scientists
• Faculty 

Terms:
Event Requirements

• Must include a minimum of five (5) participant
• Should support interaction and community-building within or across HBI labs or groups
• Funding must be requested before the event takes place (retroactive expenses are not eligible)

Examples of supported gatherings include, but are not limited to, multi-lab lunches, trainee socials, cross-lab coffee meetings, and informal milestone celebrations.

Value:
Applicants may request up to $400 per gathering. Funding decisions consider:

• Alignment with program objectives
• Breadth of engagement across the HBI community
• Repeat applications 

To support equitable access, priority may be given to first-time applicants when demand exceeds available funds. Recurring gatherings may be supported but remain subject to available funding.

Eligible Expenses

• Group meals or snacks
• Non-alcoholic beverages (coffee, soft drinks, etc.)
• Food & beverage delivery fees and associated taxes
• Basic food-serving supplies (disposable plates, forks, etc.)
• Parking (only when travel is required beyond a participant’s primary workplace or study location)

Ineligible Expenses

• Alcohol
• Gift cards, prizes, or honoraria
• Equipment or lab supplies
• Decorations beyond basic food service
• Individual meals not tied to a group gathering
• Vehicle mileage

Deadline: Rolling