Call for Projects

Posted: September 1, 2026

Applications due: October 30, 2026

The purpose of the GLAM Incubator is to connect GLAM organizations (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums) with expertise and resources from the University of Toronto and industry partners. The Incubator is dedicated to prototyping and supporting small-scale, experimental, and innovative projects, such as cutting-edge programming, service models, research tools, interactive experiences, knowledge media, and user interfaces. As an ethical approach to community partnerships, the Incubator is driven by the needs that GLAM organizations identify for themselves. The Incubator prioritizes projects that have the potential to expand beyond the initiating institution to impact an area of the GLAM sector more broadly.

The GLAM Incubator has previously supported projects with such institutional partners as Archives of Ontario, Deyohahá:ge: Indigenous Knowledge Centre, Fredericton Public Library, Uxbridge Historical Society, The ArQuives: Canada’s LGBT2Q+ Archive, and the Farallon Book Arts Lab. More information on past projects can be found on our website.

To be eligible for the GLAM Incubator, project proposals must:

  • Originate from a GLAM organization (i.e. the applicant must work within the organization or have a demonstrated history of partnership with the organization)
  • Be “small-scale” with a well-defined scope
  • Have an experimental or innovative approach that addresses a specific challenge or timed opportunity
  • Be short-term (ideally concluding within the 2027 calendar year)

The Incubator will use its resources and infrastructure to run multiple projects concurrently. Successful projects will be matched with a faculty member(s) from the University of Toronto whose expertise can help the project to achieve its goals. The Incubator will lend, purchase, or assist with the acquisition of technological equipment and software required for the project. It will also assist with project tasks such as event facilitation, graphic design, social media, research expertise, knowledge mobilization activities, project management, and other supports as necessary. The Incubator will help project leads secure external funding to sustain projects after incubation. In exchange, project leads will collaborate with faculty and students in the Faculty of Information. Project teams are expected to disseminate the results of the project through knowledge mobilization activities, public/community outreach, or publications, where applicable. Visit the GLAM Incubator website for more information.

TO APPLY

Applicants must apply on behalf of a GLAM organization or network of organizations. Projects must address a challenge or opportunity that benefits a GLAM organization and demonstrate potential impact on an area of the GLAM sector more broadly.

Please submit the following to morghen.jael@mail.utoronto.ca no later than October 30, 2026:

  • Two-page description of the project;
  • Resume(s) of the lead applicant(s);
  • A list of potential equipment, space, expertise, administrative, and funding needs.

We highly encourage applicants to consult our new FAQ page before applying. Further questions about applicant eligibility or the application process can be directed to Morghen Jael at morghen.jael@mail.utoronto.ca.