Canadian Innovation Week has returned for its 8th annual event this week, running under the theme ‘Innovation to Action’.
Taking place from 26-30 May, Canadian Innovation Week brings together innovators, partners, and communities from across Canada to spotlight how bold ideas are making a real impact – from local projects to global breakthroughs.
Event organisers, the Rideau Hall Foundation, are committed to showcasing Canadian innovation that is relevant, accessible, and meaningful to everyone.
The message behind Canadian Innovation Week
Canadian Innovation Week is a growing national movement that celebrates excellence in innovation, amplifies local and national success stories, and creates the conditions for bold ideas to thrive.
It features a mix of in-person and virtual events, inviting participation from Canadians of all ages, regions, and sectors.
Teresa Marques, President and CEO of the Rideau Hall Foundation, explained: “Through stories, ceremonies, and community-led events, we’re building the momentum and networks that help innovation take root and grow across Canada – leading not only to greater resilience as a country, but to prosperity.”
Daily themes: A week of Innovation in Action
Each day of this year’s Canadian Innovation Week highlights a different aspect of innovation by celebrating the people, ideas, and actions driving progress across Canada. They are:
Monday, 26 May: Collaboration in Action
This theme demonstrates that transforming big ideas into even greater impact doesn’t happen in isolation and celebrates cross-sector partnerships that drive meaningful progress.
Tuesday, 27 May: Communities in Action
Big change often starts locally. This day spotlights grassroots projects, non-profits, and post-secondary innovators who are making a difference.
Wednesday, 28 May: Youth in Action
Young people are at the cutting edge of innovation. This theme honours bold youth-led ideas and the Ingenious+ National Awards Ceremony.
Thursday, 29 May: Canada in Action
Innovation creates a lasting impact by shifting systems and reimagining the future. A big part of this day is the Governor General’s Innovation Awards at Rideau Hall.
Friday, 30 May: The Future in Action
Innovation is all about imagining the possible and asking, why not? The final day explores what’s next in tech, policy, and social innovation across Canada.
Signature events highlight key innovations in Canada
This year’s Canadian Innovation Week includes two in-person events that highlight the incredible range and depth of innovation happening across the country.
Ingenious+ National Ceremony – 28 May
The Ingenious+ challenge empowers youths aged 14–18 to innovate for good. The national ceremony will celebrate 16 finalists from across Canada and announce the five national winners, highlighting the next generation of problem solvers and change makers.
Governor General’s Innovation Awards (GGIA) – 29 May
Held at Rideau Hall, the GGIA honours six recipients whose transformative innovations are making a positive impact in Canada. These awards celebrate excellence, diversity, and the power of Canadian innovation to inspire.
How to get involved in Canadian Innovation Week
More than just a celebration, Canadian Innovation Week 2025 is a platform for action.
The RHF is calling on organisations and individuals across the country to get involved by hosting events, highlighting innovators, and sharing stories that move ideas forward.
Partner events will take place from coast to coast, showcasing a range of initiatives, including clean tech breakthroughs, reconciliation efforts, student-led startups, and Indigenous knowledge-based solutions.
The #CIW25 Toolkit is available online and provides messaging, visuals, and ideas for how to participate, whether you’re an individual changemaker or an organisation ready to celebrate your impact.
