SSHRC 2026 Storytellers Challenge now open
Do you have a compelling research story to share?
The Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) has officially launched the 2026 Storytellers Challenge, a national competition that celebrates impactful research and the power of storytelling.
Graduate and undergraduate students from across Canada are invited to demonstrate how social sciences and humanities research shapes our lives, communities, and the world. Participants have up to three minutes or 300 words to creatively communicate the story of a SSHRC-funded research project.
Waterloo students have a strong record of success in research storytelling. In 2024, School of Architecture student Liam Bursey and in 2023, Environment student Navya Nair were both selected as SSHRC Storytellers Finalists, earning national recognition for their creative approaches to research communication. Both first showcased their storytelling talents through GRADflix, where they shared one-minute videos about their research.
Competition details
- Must be a Canadian resident 19 years of age or older
- Create a video or audio clip of up to three minutes or a written creative narrative or infographic of up to 300 words featuring SSHRC-funded research
- Submit your story by Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. (EST)
Why participate?
- $3,000 cash prize for each of the 20 finalists plus an additional $1,000 for each of the top five winners
- Professional development in research communications
- The chance to present your work at the Storytellers Showcase in Montréal, Quebec
Learn more
SSHRC will be hosting a public information webinar with more information about the competition on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
Visit the SSHRC Storytellers Challenge website for full contest details, deadlines, eligibility, and storytelling tips.