Indigenous Coastal Innovation Challenge

Introduction

The Indigenous Coastal Innovation Challenge (ICIC) supports Indigenous-led climate resiliency projects in coastal communities across Canada. Aligned with Ambition 2035, the ICIC prioritizes community–driven solutions and aims to reduce barriers for Indigenous participants. The Challenge supports projects that promote ocean health and strengthen a community’s ability to mitigate or adapt to the impacts of climate change. Building on the OSC’s Two-Eyed Seeing Initiative, the ICIC follows a two-phased model to support both project concept development and project deployment. 

Phase 1: Concept Development 

Phase 1 runs from September 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026, and supports the early-stage development of project ideas. This phase is designed to help communities shape, refine, and prepare their concepts for future implementation. 

Participating projects will: 

• Receive funding to support eligible activities, such as community engagement, environmental scans, technical assessments, and planning; 

• Focus on building a strong foundation for transition to full project deployment in Phase 2; and 

• Take part in virtual events that provide opportunities to connect with other project teams, share knowledge, and build capacity. 

Phase 2: Project Deployment 

Phase 2 runs from April 1, 2026, to October 31, 2027, and supports the implementation of projects that successfully complete Phase 1. 

Participating projects will: 

• Receive additional funding aligned to our Technology Leadership and Innovation Ecosystem program streams; 

• Focus on delivering tangible, community-led outcomes that strengthen Indigenous climate leadership and resilience in coastal regions; and  

• Participate in an in-person event designed to foster collaboration, learning, and celebration among project teams. 

Applications for the Indigenous Coastal Innovation Challenge are now closed. 

For inquiries, please contact: icic@oceansupercluster.ca