Introduction
The Integrated Design Process (IDP) Training program is an opportunity for organizations to learn about and apply IDP to their real-world building projects.
IDP is a collaborative, whole-systems approach to building design and planning. Unlike traditional linear design methods, IDP is goal-driven and inclusive, bringing together a multidisciplinary team, including owners, architects, engineers, and operators, at the very beginning of a project to identify opportunities to optimize the entire building system. The process is facilitated by a dedicated lead and follows a structured, iterative sequence intended to prevent locking in poor performance through early, non-reversible decisions. By using tools, such as the design charrettes to establish clear, measurable performance targets, IDP ensures that all participants are aligned toward a common vision, resulting in more efficient, cost-effective buildings.
Application
The application form (found at the bottom of this page) is for organizations in Nova Scotia wishing to participate in the IDP Training Program, hosted by the Building to Zero Exchange (BTZx) in partnership with Equilibrium Engineering.
IDP Training Program
Successful applicants (“Project Teams”) will participate in a structured IDP training workshop on March 16, 2026, facilitated design charrettes, and gain access to expert mentorship over a 6 to12 month period.
Project teams should be directly involved with the development of a building project and can influence design decision making. The building project should be in the early design stage.
Interested project teams can choose to participate in one of the following two cohorts:
Cohort One
- Up to five project teams
- Project team training workshop on March 16, followed by project team design charettes
- Mentorship with Equilibrium Engineering and Solterre Designs
Cohort Two
- Up to five project teams spots available.
- Project team training workshop later in the year, followed by project team design charettes
- Mentorship with Equilibrium Engineering and Solterre Designs
Applications will remain open until all spots are filled for both cohorts.
Financial Incentives
Applicants may be eligible to receive a training stipend of up to $10,000 CAD per organization, to support trainee time, eligible planning expenses, and ongoing collaboration with BTZx.
BTZx is committed to supporting greater participation of African Nova Scotian and Indigenous professionals who live and work in Nova Scotia.
African Nova Scotian and Indigenous Participation
BTZx is committed to supporting greater participation of African Nova Scotian and Indigenous professionals who live and work in Nova Scotia.
African Nova Scotian or Indigenous -led organizations, or organizations whose building project directly benefits African Nova Scotia or Indigenous communities, may be eligible to receive an additional $5,000 CAD per organization.
All successful applicants will be required to sign a Letter of Commitment with BTZx to engage in training, collaboration and reporting.
Review Process
Applications will be reviewed by the IDP Program Team and Advisory Committee. Selection is based on alignment with program goals, organizational commitment, and sector impact.
Additional factors that strengthen an application include:
- Clear alignment with Part 3 building types (multi-unit residential, commercial, institutional, industrial, and public sector, etc.) and goal towards a voluntary performance standard
- Commitment of up to three participants from the organization to fully engage in the workshop and mentorship year.
- A willingness to share project or case study details for reporting, and to participate in media coverage (photos, stories, videos).
- Potential to build capacity in Nova Scotia’s building sector, especially for public sector and underrepresented communities.
- Applications from African Nova Scotian and Indigenous organizations and employees are strongly encouraged.
Applicants will be notified by email if they have been chosen to participate in the program
