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About

The Dimensions Pilot Program is a federal initiative supported by all three federal research granting agencies to support post-secondary institutions seeking to increase equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in scholarly, research and creative (SRC) activities. The objectives of the program are to create transformational change within the research ecosystems of post-secondary institutions by identifying and eliminating obstacles and inequities. The program seeks to improve equitable access to funding opportunities, increase equitable and inclusive participation, and embed EDI-related considerations into research design and practices.

The Dimensions program is the first of its kind in Canada, modelled after similar programs such as Athena SWAN in the United Kingdom and Ireland, SAGE in Australia, and SEA Change in the United States. The initial cohort of 17 Canadian post-secondary institutions has the opportunity to increase equity, diversity and inclusion in research and gain recognition for their efforts.

Learn more about the federal Dimensions program (external link, opens in new window) .

Toronto Metropolitan University endorsed the Dimensions Charter (external link, opens in new window)  and successfully applied as one of the 17 post-secondary institutions selected to take part in the Dimensions Pilot Program. By endorsing the Charter, TMU commits to adopting these principles through our SRC practices and cultures.

As a member of the pilot cohort, TMU's Dimensions team is coordinating across our varied research cultures on data collection, analysis and action planning. During the initial stage, we are collecting and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data to produce a reflective assessment of the university’s SRC systems, practices and cultures. This assessment will lead to the development of a university action plan with goals based on the identified gaps, barriers and trends. Each Faculty has a Dimensions team gathering data and personal feedback regarding EDI in their respective SRC areas.

Learn more about TMU’s Faculty Dimensions Teams.

In 2023, Dimensions at TMU received a Stage Two Dimensions recognition  (external link) for the team's efforts in cultivating change in the institution's academic research culture.