Applications for the 2026 IAP2 Canada Core Values Awards are now open!

This is where the standard for public participation in Canada is established and celebrated.

Each year, the Core Values Awards recognize the organizations, projects, and research that influence how engagement is practiced across Canada. They demonstrate how participation directly informs decisions and meaningfully represents the communities it is intended to serve.

The 2026 program introduces a clearly defined structure across both application and evaluation, with explicit criteria and a high expectation for the work being submitted.

How does the application process work?

The application process follows a defined and sequential pathway. Applicants begin by selecting the award category that most accurately reflects their work. The online submission form is then completed, at which point a Core Values Application Number is issued for tracking and reference. Applicants prepare their submission using the required templates and supporting documentation, aligned with category criteria and Core Values requirements. Completed applications are then formally submitted for evaluation.

What are the 2026 Award Categories?

The Core Values Awards categories reflect the breadth and depth of public participation practice across Canada:

• 1. Creativity, Contribution and Innovation in the Field
  Work that advances public participation through original thinking and measurable impact.
• 2. Indigenous Engagement
  Approaches grounded in Indigenous knowledge, leadership, and community-led participation.
• 3. Respect for Diversity, Inclusion and Culture
  Engagement that reflects diverse voices and supports equitable participation.
• 4. Visual Engagement
  Use of design to strengthen clarity, understanding, and participation in decision-making.
• 5. Organization of the Year
  Organizations that have embedded participation into how decisions are made and carried out.
• 6. Research Project of the Year
  Work that expands the knowledge base and strengthens the continued development of the field.

Who can apply?

The Core Values Awards are open to organizations, practitioners, and researchers across sectors throughout Canada. IAP2 Canada membership is not required to apply.

Applications will be accepted until June 15, 2026.

Recipients will be recognized at the IAP2 Canada North American Conference in Vancouver, with awards presented at the Gala on October 1, 2026.

How are submissions evaluated?

All submissions are evaluated against category-specific criteria and the seven IAP2 Core Values for the Practice of Public Participation through a structured scoring framework. Submissions are assessed based on how they demonstrate alignment with these Core Values in both design and execution. This includes evidence that the engagement:

• is based on the belief that those who are affected by a decision have a right to be involved in the decision-making process
• includes the promise that the public's contribution will influence the decision
• promotes sustainable decisions by recognizing and communicating the needs and interests of all participants, including decision-makers
• seeks out and facilitates the involvement of those potentially affected by or interested in a decision
• seeks input from participants in designing how they participate
• provides participants with the information they need to participate in a meaningful way
• communicates to participants how their input affected the decision

Why does this matter?

The Core Values Awards establish the national benchmark for how public participation is practiced and evaluated in Canada. The 2026 program reflects this standard through a disciplined structure and a clear expectation for the quality and impact of the work being presented.

For further information or inquiries, please contact:
Hina Ali
Program Director, Core Values Awards 2026
hina@iap2canada.ca