As global challenges – from climate change to the energy transition – intensify, international research and innovation partnerships have never been more vital.
Our sixth volume of our Canada and Horizon Europe special focus publications explores how Canadian institutions and regions are not just participating in Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research and innovation programme, but thriving through it.
It reveals how cross-continental collaboration is shaping the next generation of sustainable technologies, research ecosystems, and education models.
This edition comprises six compelling articles that collectively paint a vibrant picture of Canada’s research and innovation landscape – an environment increasingly defined by its deepening ties with Horizon Europe.
As you explore this volume, you’ll discover how these connections are laying the groundwork for cleaner energy, smarter education, healthier communities, and a more resilient, technology-powered future.
Canada and Horizon Europe: Why this partnership matters
The European Union’s Horizon Europe programme is the world’s largest research and innovation framework, with a budget exceeding €95bn.
Canada’s association with Horizon Europe is more than symbolic – it unlocks powerful pathways for funding, cross-border projects, and intellectual exchange.
As Canadian provinces, universities, and innovators align their priorities with this framework, the benefits are already becoming tangible.
From battery metal breakthroughs in British Columbia to cutting-edge nuclear research in Ontario, Canadian participation is proving transformative across sectors.
This publication shines a spotlight on how these engagements are producing real-world impact and where the greatest opportunities lie in the future.
What you’ll discover inside:
Powering a greener tomorrow: British Columbia’s competitive critical minerals sector
British Columbia is rapidly positioning itself as a global leader in critical minerals, a key pillar of the clean energy revolution.
In this feature, the province’s Ministry of Mines and Critical Minerals discusses how its Critical Minerals Strategy focuses on sustainable development, Indigenous collaboration, and international partnerships – including ties with Horizon Europe.
Saskatchewan’s energy, mining, and manufacturing potential
Saskatchewan’s robust natural resource base makes it a magnet for global investment. But what truly sets the province apart is its integration of research, policy incentives, and industrial capacity.
From rare earth elements to helium, Saskatchewan is not just extracting resources – it’s building future-ready supply chains.
In this article, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Trade and Export Development reveals how Saskatchewan’s strategy aligns with Horizon Europe’s goals on sustainability and secure value chains.
Centennial College’s Just-In-Time Training
Traditional education models often lag behind industry needs. Centennial College is flipping the script with its Just-In-Time Training system – a responsive, modular, and industry-embedded approach to workforce development.
Learn how this model is preparing Canada’s skilled workforce for Horizon Europe’s innovation-driven economy, especially in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and clean tech.
Global research in a changing world: Trinity Western University’s collaborative strategy
Located in British Columbia, Trinity Western University exemplifies how Canadian institutions are leveraging global partnerships to tackle shared challenges – from AI in education to environmental stewardship.
This article showcases how TWU’s international approach and research capabilities are contributing to Horizon Europe-aligned themes such as digital transformation, health, and sustainable ecosystems.
Rural health innovation: The Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health (CCRAH)
For over 40 years, CCRAH has been a hub of excellence in rural health and safety. From respiratory research to injury prevention and dementia care, this University of Saskatchewan-based centre embodies the collaborative spirit needed to solve complex problems.
The article reveals how CCRAH’s community-based research model could be a template for Horizon Europe projects focusing on health equity and rural resilience.
Nuclear excellence in Canada: McMaster University’s research leadership
Home to Canada’s most advanced nuclear research infrastructure, McMaster University is at the forefront of medical isotope production, clean energy R&D, and neutron beam science.
This final piece underscores how McMaster’s facilities, experts, and international collaborations position it as a cornerstone of Canada’s contribution to Horizon Europe, especially in areas like health, energy, and advanced materials.
A call to collaborate
Canada’s entry into Horizon Europe marks the beginning of a new era in global research collaboration.
The articles in this publication illustrate how Canadian institutions are not only ready but already making strides in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges – together with their European counterparts.
Whether you’re a policymaker, academic, investor, or industry leader, this special focus on Canada and Horizon Europe offers insight, inspiration, and opportunity.
