INQ-UArctic Regional Centre for the Province of Québec, the very first of its kind in North America, is operated by Institut nordique du Québec (INQ) at Université Laval. This centre plays a strategic role in mobilizing and promoting northern and Arctic expertise, and serves as a key point of contact for Québec-based members of UArctic. INQ encourages its regular members to take full advantage of the opportunities offered by UArctic by becoming members of this vast international network themselves.

What is UArctic?

The University of the Arctic (UArctic) is an international association based in Finland, forming a network of universities, colleges, research institutes, and other organizations with an interest in northern education and research.

Through international cooperation in education, research, and outreach, UArctic expands learning and research opportunities in the North and supports the vitality of communities and sustainable economies. Initiated with support from the Arctic Council, the organization is committed to the principles of sustainable development and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

What is a UArctic Regional Centre?

UArctic Regional Centres support regional dialogue and engagement by facilitating collaboration among members and their local partners. They share information, encourage participation in UArctic activities, and enhance the visibility of northern and Arctic research.

In Québec, the Regional Centre is operated by Institut nordique du Québec (INQ) at Université Laval. INQ is committed to promoting UArctic’s values, increasing the visibility of northern and Arctic research, and collaborating on joint academic and scientific initiatives.

Who Can Become a UArctic Member?

Universities, colleges, research institutes, and other organizations engaged in northern education and research are eligible to join UArctic. Interested institutions must complete an application form, which is reviewed by the UArctic Assembly.
For more information, please visit the official UArctic website.

What Are the Benefits of Being a UArctic Member?

Visibility and Networking

• Increase institutional presence in the Arctic and amplify the collective influence of members.
• Position yourself as a key player in Arctic research and education through collaborations, while benefiting from access to Thematic Networks and letters of support for grant applications.
• Strengthen international partnerships with organizations and institutions engaged in Arctic issues.
• Enhance visibility through UArctic’s communication channels (website, newsletters, Shared Voices magazine, events, etc.).

Funding Opportunities

• Access internal funding to support research, partnerships, and mobility.
• Increase external funding opportunities through collaborations within the UArctic network.

Collaborations and Partnerships

• Enable faculties and researchers to access UArctic’s Thematic Networks and join international projects.
• Strengthen relationships with Indigenous and northern communities.
• Collaborate on scientific publications and increase chances of securing international funding.

Student Mobility and Attractiveness

• Offer students and staff from member institutions the opportunity to participate in a north2north exchange, allowing them to build new connections and gain unique experiences in Arctic research.
• Increase the institution's attractiveness to students — including Indigenous students — and foster the development of innovative solutions to Arctic challenges.
• Create opportunities for students to publish and take part in forums, webinars, and Arctic-focused research.

Representation

• Demonstrate the institution’s commitment to Arctic research, policy, and education.
• Give members a voice in UArctic events and assemblies.
• Highlight alignment with Canada’s Arctic and Northern Policy Framework, and increase visibility amoung government and industry stakeholders.

Strategic Positioning

• Gain access to networks, political influence, and international recognition without heavy investments in marketing.
• Leverage UArctic membership as a strategic tool for leadership, funding, and influence, helping institutions better respond to their priorities.

For further information about the Regional Centre, please contact us.