Are you developing a "bold innovation" that could transform health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries? Grand Challenges Canada (GCC) is officially looking for the next generation of solutions to address the world’s most pressing development hurdles.
GCC is renowned for supporting high-impact ideas that not only save lives but also demonstrate a clear, sustainable pathway to scale. Whether you are at the "napkin sketch" stage or ready to expand across a continent, there is a funding tier designed for your journey.
Funding Tiers: From Seed to Scale
The program offers a flexible financial structure depending on the maturity of your innovation:
Seed Funding: Up to CAD 150,000 for early-stage innovations testing a bold new idea.
Transition to Scale: Ranging from CAD 300,000 to CAD 1,500,000 (or more) for proven solutions ready for widespread implementation.
Large-Scale Impact: For exceptional projects, funding can exceed CAD 1,500,000 to ensure maximum global reach.
Priority Focus Areas
Grand Challenges Canada is specifically targeting innovations in the following sectors:
Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health: Improving survival and wellbeing for the most vulnerable.
Mental Health & Youth Wellbeing: Tackling the growing global mental health crisis.
Health Systems & Service Delivery: Reimagining how care is accessed and provided.
Digital Health: Leveraging technology for community-based solutions.
Equity-Driven Solutions: Ensuring underserved populations are not left behind.
Geography & Eligibility
While GCC is a global player, funding is often tied to specific calls for proposals. Eligible organizations include startups, social enterprises, nonprofits, academic institutions, and private sector firms.
Commonly eligible countries include Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Ethiopia, Morocco, Sierra Leone, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
Note: Always verify the specific country list for the individual "call" you are applying to.
Key Dates for 2026
There is no single deadline for the entire year. Instead, GCC releases multiple "calls" throughout the year. While some early 2026 windows close on 31 March 2026, new opportunities are regularly released. Staying connected to the community is the best way to ensure you don't miss a launch.
Ready to take your innovation to the next level? Submit your application: Apply Here