In a fast-evolving global landscape where energy, security, sustainability, and inclusion intersect, innovation is not just a buzzword but a necessity. Recognizing this, the Embassy of Canada in Italy proudly launches the 13th edition of the Canada-Italy Innovation Award, a prestigious initiative designed to foster international collaboration and technological advancement.
This year, the award zeroes in on four high-impact areas: Energy Security, Artificial Intelligence and Sports, Space Technology and Migration Management.
For those in the electric mobility and energy technology sectors, the focus on energy security is particularly timely. With global instability threatening access to clean and reliable energy, innovations in renewable sources, smart grids, and electrification are more critical than ever. The award aims to connect Italian researchers, scientists, engineers, and startups with Canadian counterparts to co-develop solutions that can make electric infrastructure more resilient, efficient, and secure.
The integration of AI into sports also opens up a rich avenue for electromobility stakeholders, where real-time data analysis and predictive algorithms can cross over into applications such as EV fleet management, smart charging systems, and driver behavior analytics.
Furthermore, the increasing prominence of space technology — with its potential to drive advancements in materials science, satellite-based energy management, and global communication networks — has strong implications for the electric transport and infrastructure ecosystems.
Successful applicants will receive up to €4,000 to cover travel expenses to Canada, allowing them to meet with their Canadian counterparts and lay the foundation for meaningful collaborations. Over the years, the Canada-Italy Innovation Award has played a significant role in building long-lasting ties between the two countries, leading to numerous high-profile research initiatives and technological breakthroughs.
Adding to the strategic relevance, Canada’s recent inclusion as an “associated country” in Horizon Europe (Pillar II) offers awardees new funding channels and collaborative platforms within the EU framework.
The deadline for submitting proposals is June 29, 2025. Full program details and the application form are available here.
