Government of Canada 9th Edition of International Policy Ideas Challenge

📝 About the Challenge

The International Policy Ideas Challenge (IPIC) is a national policy innovation initiative led by Global Affairs Canada (GAC) in partnership with the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). Now in its ninth edition, IPIC supports emerging researchers in developing practical, policy-focused ideas that address Canada’s most pressing international and foreign policy challenges.

🎁 Benefits

Between five and ten proposals will be selected through a competitive review process. Selected participants will receive:

• CAD 5,000 financial award per winning proposal.
• Personalized coaching and mentoring from policy experts.
• Training on Canadian foreign policy and policy brief writing.
• The opportunity to present directly to Government of Canada officials.

The financial award is paid to the lead or sole researcher upon submission and presentation of the final policy brief.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Academic Requirements

You may apply if you are:

• A current Master’s or PhD student.
• A postdoctoral fellow.
• A researcher affiliated with a Canadian non-profit organization.

All applicants must be within six years of completing a graduate degree and enrolled at a recognized Canadian or international institution.

Citizenship and Residency Requirements

Applicants must be:

• Canadian citizens or
• Permanent residents of Canada.

Who Is Not Eligible

The following individuals cannot apply:

• Indeterminate or term employees of the Government of Canada.
• Employees of Global Affairs Canada.

📅 Application Process

Submission Method

Applicants must submit their application by email.

Required Documents

Your application package must include:

• A completed proposal (maximum 750 words).
• Curriculum vitae (CV).
• Proof of enrolment or degree completion.
• One confidential letter of reference.
• Short biography of the lead researcher.
• Biographies of any collaborators (if applicable).

📌 Application Deadline

02 March, 2026

🔗 Application Portal

View details of the Government of Canada 9th Edition of International Policy Ideas Challenge on the official website.

For further inquiries, please refer to the official application portal or contact the organizers directly.

• A CAD 5,000 financial award per winning proposal
• Personalized coaching and mentoring from policy experts
• Training on Canadian foreign policy and policy brief writing
• The opportunity to present directly to Government of Canada officials