Application Deadline:
January 22, 2026
About Organisation
The Government of Canada, through its commitment to international collaboration and research excellence, administers a range of programs designed to enhance global partnerships and innovation. One such initiative is the Destination Horizon Grant Program, supported under the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). SSHRC promotes research that deepens understanding of people, communities, and societies while fostering international collaboration in the social sciences and humanities. The Council’s programs enable Canadian scholars and researchers to connect with global peers to address shared challenges such as digital transformation, sustainability, inequality, and cultural evolution. Through initiatives like Destination Horizon, SSHRC seeks to strengthen Canada’s presence in global research networks by supporting activities that expand cooperation, knowledge-sharing, and interdisciplinary partnerships. This reflects Canada’s broader goal of building inclusive, knowledge-driven societies that prioritize equitable and sustainable development.
About the Grant
The Destination Horizon Grant Program aims to support Canadian researchers in developing international partnerships and networks with European Union and associated countries under Horizon Europe’s Pillar II framework. This initiative funds activities that build research capacity, foster collaborative relationships, and prepare researchers for large-scale international funding opportunities. The program focuses on 16 major global challenges, including environmental sustainability, digital transformation, global health, gender equity, and social inclusion. Grants provide financial assistance for activities like workshops, planning meetings, consultations, and other initiatives that advance partnership development. However, they do not cover salaries, stipends, or research implementation costs. The grant’s ultimate goal is to create an enabling environment for future interdisciplinary research proposals and consortia applications under Horizon Europe. By promoting collaboration between Canadian and European researchers, the program strengthens global academic ties and supports innovation-driven responses to societal challenges.
Who can Apply?
Eligible applicants must be researchers affiliated with recognized Canadian postsecondary institutions in the social sciences or humanities. They must demonstrate readiness to develop or expand research partnerships with counterparts in the European Union or associated countries, with the long-term aim of applying for Horizon Europe – Pillar II funding. Each application must include a 100% matching cash contribution from the applicant’s host institution. Applications may be submitted individually or as part of a team that includes co-applicants or collaborators. Co-applicants may be individuals affiliated with Canadian postsecondary institutions, think tanks, foundations, non-profits, or government organizations. Collaborators may represent any sector, including academia, the private sector, or government bodies, though their participation is limited to an advisory or supportive role. Postdoctoral researchers and students are not eligible to apply. Only Canadian institutions with SSHRC institutional eligibility can administer the grant, and a maximum of three applications may be submitted per institution. All applications are evaluated through a randomized selection process to ensure fairness and transparency.
How to Apply?
Applications must be submitted through the SSHRC Convergence Portal by eligible research administrators from Canadian postsecondary institutions. Each institution can submit a maximum of three applications per competition. Applicants should include detailed plans for partnership activities, proof of institutional matching funds, and a clear alignment with Horizon Europe collaboration goals. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.
Application Deadline
All completed applications, with required documentation and institutional approval, must be submitted through the SSHRC Convergence Portal before 11:59 p.m. (local time) on January 22, 2026.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
