GIS and Data Support

The Maps, Data & Government Information Centre (MaDGIC) offers support services in the areas of GIS, data analysis and visualization, and research data management. We strive to foster GIS and data literacy at Trent. Our vision is to build a strong, interconnected community of students, staff, faculty and partners who are empowered to leverage the power of GIS and data to enhance learning, teaching and research experiences across all disciplines. We can

  • drop by your class, event or meeting to deliver a custom overview of our collections, resources and services
  • offer one-on-one appointments and research consultations in person or online
  • develop in-class or asynchronous training materials to build data literacy and management skills
  • deliver workshops on specialized topics in GIS, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and research data management. 

Visit our Contact Us page to book an appointment or request online help.

Download workshop materials from our SharePoint site. 

The Maps, Data & Government Information Centre (MaDGIC) offers customized learning opportunities and literacy programming to support the use of GIS and data resources at Trent. 

Class Visits

MaDGIC can develop and deliver instructional sessions to support students or research teams with completing course assignments and conducting research. Staff and faculty who are interested in scheduling course-integrated sessions or developing custom learning opportunities are encouraged to connect with Tracy Sallaway, Research Data Services Librarian to discuss their needs.


Workshops and Information Sessions

Winter 2026 sessions are open for registration!

Visit our SharePoint page to register for information sessions and workshops on:

  • Finding data to support your research
  • Library tools and resources available for qualitative research
  • Analyzing data in R, NVivo, and SPSS
  • Visualizing and sharing content in ArcGIS Online, R, R Shiny, and Leaflet

Can't attend a workshop or need one-on-one support? Contact us by email to madgichelp@trentu.ca or book an appointment with one of our specialists!

 

 

 

 

The Maps, Data & Government Information Centre (MaDGIC) hosts GIS Research Day each year to celebrate Geography Awareness Week, which takes place annually during the third week of November.

This event brings together Trent researchers and community partners to share the fascinating ways in which GIS and data are used to conduct interdisciplinary research, inform public policy, and enhance community services. Submission and registration details are located on Trent's GeoHub.

Video recordings from our 2022 event are posted to Trent University's Library & Archive YouTube channel. 

BeSpatial Nathan Adams Student Bursary 2025-2026

Applications due April 1, 2026

The BeSpatial Student Bursary is an annual award that recognizes the contributions of students studying at Ontario post-secondary institutions. 

Why apply? 
  • Get involved: BeSpatial Ontario is a thriving community dedicated to advancing geospatial and information solutions
  • Gain name recognition: BeSpatial Ontario will feature the winning entry on their website and the top three entries in their e-Newsletter
  • Earn financial support: The winner will receive a one-time payment of $500
Eligibility
  •  Students must be currently enrolled in a certificate, diploma, undergraduate, or graduate studies program in Ontario
How to apply
  1. Submit a story map and short paper detailing your project completed as a requirement of your studies in Ontario.
  2. Don't have an Esri account? Contact madgichelp@trentu.ca to request one.
  3. Share your story map and project description here. 

Detailed application guidelines are available at the BeSpatial website.

Questions?

Email us at madgichelp@trentu.ca

Esri Canada GIS Scholarship

Details for the 2026 scholarship will be posted here this fall

Are you interested in GIS and looking to take your skills to the next level? The 2025 Esri Canada GIS Scholarship is your chance!

This award recognizes Trent University's commitment to delivering top-notch, multidisciplinary GIS courses and programs. It's designed to support a dedicated and high-achieving Trent University student in continuing their GIS journey. 

Why apply?
  • Boost your career: Gain recognition and valuable resources to enhance your GIS expertise.
  • Exclusive benefits: Enjoy a range of perks to support your studies and future work experiences.
Scholarship Benefits
  • $1500 one-time payment: Financial support to help you focus on your studies.
  • Three-year ArcGIS license: Access to ArcGIS for Student Use and the ArcGIS Developer Bundle.
  • Esri Press Publications: Digital copies of select books to expand your knowledge.
  • Instructor-led Training: Two courses offered by Esri Canada to sharpen your skills.
  • Conference registration: Complimentary entry to the 2026 GIS in Education and Research Conference.
  • Professional profile: A personal and editable profile in the Esri Canada GIS Scholarship Web Portal.
  • Career opportunities: Eligibility to apply for the Esri Canada Associate GIS Professional Program in your graduation year.
Eligibility
  • Academic excellence: Minimum B+ average in overall GPA.
  • GIS experience: Significant coursework or postgraduate research using Esri technology.

Don't miss this opportunity to advance your GIS skills and career! Apply now and make your mark in the world of GIS.

Questions?

Email us at madgichelp@trentu.ca.

Congratulations to Lyn Brown, our 2024 Esri Canada Scholarship Recipient! 
Read more about Lyn's award-winning research