Ottawa, ON — Honouring Nations Canada (HNC), an initiative of Fulbright Canada, is now accepting applications for its 2026 awards recognizing excellence in Indigenous governance, innovative community practice, and Indigenous ways of knowing. The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2026.
The awards ceremony will be held on August 24, 2026, during the Victoria Forum at Royal Roads University in Victoria, British Columbia. The Victoria Forum is an annual international gathering that convenes more than 800 participants from across Canada and around the world, bringing together leaders, scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to engage in dialogue on pressing global challenges.
Honouring Nations Canada recognizes Indigenous nations and organizations whose work exemplifies leadership across key areas, including sovereignty and governance, natural resource stewardship, health and wellness, education, culture and language, and economic and community development. The awards are designed to elevate Indigenous-led models of practice and support a broader understanding of governance approaches rooted in Indigenous traditions and priorities.
Central to Honouring Nations Canada is its Circle of Advisors, a group of Indigenous leaders and knowledge holders who provide guidance and support to the program, ensuring that the initiative reflects community priorities and cultural integrity. Their involvement strengthens HNC’s commitment to Indigenous self-determination, community-aligned decision-making, and shared learning.
“Honouring Nations Canada honours the strength, creativity, and self?determined leadership of Indigenous nations across this land,” said Robin McLay, Special Advisor to the President of Fulbright Canada and Director of Honouring Nations Canada. “Through this initiative and the guidance of our Circle of Advisors, we aim not only to recognize outstanding achievements but to share knowledge that enriches policy, practice, and understanding in communities far beyond the award recipients themselves.”
Beyond recognition, Honouring Nations Canada supports knowledge mobilization through the development of research briefs and public resources that document and share Indigenous?led solutions and strategies, contributing insights that can inform decision-making in government, academia, philanthropy, and community sectors.
“The Honouring Nations Canada Awards are a testament to the vibrancy and impact of Indigenous leadership across Canada,” said Dr. Michael Hawes, CEO of Fulbright Canada. “We are proud to provide a platform that elevates Indigenous governance models and promotes respectful, reciprocal learning between Indigenous nations, governments, institutions, and citizens.”
The August 2026 awards ceremony will bring together Indigenous leaders, policymakers, scholars, and community members to honour recipients and amplify their work on a national stage. The gathering will serve as both a celebration and a platform for dialogue on Indigenous governance, innovation, and resilience.
Indigenous nations, organizations, and partners are encouraged to review eligibility criteria and submit applications by April 30, 2026.
For application details, award categories, and eligibility information, see the HNC Award details.
For media inquiries or additional information, please contact Robin McLay at: rmclay@fulbright.ca