Web Analytics

fundsforNGOs

Grants and Resources for Sustainability

You are here: Home / Events Training Programs Workshops and Conferences / Call for Entries: Young Explorers Program (Canada)

Call for Entries: Young Explorers Program (Canada)

Deadline: 15-Mar-2026

The Young Explorers Program 2026 offers selected participants a funded expedition sailing from Reykjavík, Iceland to Greenland from June 28 to July 10, 2026. Participants conduct scientific, social science, or arts-based projects aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The program emphasizes adaptable, research-driven exploration in Arctic environments and includes unique cultural and ecological experiences.

Overview

The Young Explorers Program provides early-career researchers, creatives, and explorers the chance to join a field-based Arctic expedition.

Participants sail from Reykjavík, Iceland to Greenland, following historic Viking routes, while carrying out scientific, social science, or arts-based research projects.

The expedition dates are:

  • Departure: June 28, 2026

  • Return: July 10, 2026

  • Route: Reykjavík → East Greenland → Brattahlíð → Nuuk → Søndre Strømfjord → Kangerlussuaq

The voyage is conducted in an expedition-style format, where daily plans depend on weather, wildlife, and Arctic conditions.

Program Focus and Project Priorities

The program encourages projects that:

  • Have a scientific research focus, such as climate, biodiversity, or marine studies

  • Include social science perspectives, such as community or cultural studies

  • Are arts-based or creative, including field-based documentation, photography, or installations

  • Are independent or academic research initiatives

Priority is given to projects that:

  • Align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  • Are adaptable to the weather-dependent nature of Arctic expeditions

  • Can be executed during short field stops along the route

Expedition Route and Key Highlights

1. Reykjavík, Iceland (Departure Point)

The journey begins in Reykjavík, a gateway to the Arctic, providing logistical and cultural orientation.

2. East Coast of Greenland

Participants will explore:

  • Dramatic fjords, glaciers, and Arctic mountains

  • Rarely visited coastal areas

  • Marine and bird life, including whales and seabirds

3. Brattahlíð (Erik the Red’s Settlement)

Participants visit the historic ruins of Brattahlíð, founded by Erik the Red, offering:

  • Insight into Norse history and archaeology

  • Opportunities to document cultural heritage

4. Nuuk, Greenland

The capital provides exposure to:

  • Contemporary Arctic governance

  • Indigenous culture and urban life

  • Local sustainability and community initiatives

5. Søndre Strømfjord to Kangerlussuaq (Final Destination)

The expedition concludes in Kangerlussuaq, navigating glacial fjords and Arctic landscapes while documenting biodiversity and geological features.

Funding and Covered Costs

The program provides funding through an expedition berth, which includes:

  • Shared accommodation in a Category 3 cabin

  • Any charter flights associated with the expedition

Participants are responsible for:

  • Commercial flights

  • Pre- and post-expedition hotels

  • Mandatory emergency evacuation insurance (minimum USD 500,000)

  • Onboard personal expenses

  • Gratuities

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible participants must:

  1. Propose a project suitable for short research stops

  2. Adapt to dynamic expedition schedules and Arctic conditions

  3. Act as ambassadors for The Explorers Club and Adventure Canada

  4. Participate in interviews, gatherings, and onboard presentations

  5. Secure any necessary research permits

  6. Complete all pre-, during-, and post-expedition deliverables

The program welcomes early-career researchers, creatives, and interdisciplinary explorers committed to Arctic fieldwork and sustainability.

Why This Program Matters

The Young Explorers Program contributes to:

  • Arctic research and climate documentation

  • Cultural heritage preservation

  • Biodiversity and ecosystem studies

  • Youth engagement in global sustainability

Expedition research helps advance knowledge in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as:

  • Climate Action (SDG 13)

  • Life Below Water (SDG 14)

  • Life on Land (SDG 15)

  • Sustainable Communities (SDG 11)

How the Expedition Works

The expedition follows a flexible, Adventure Canada-style approach:

  1. Daily landings are determined by weather and conditions

  2. Short research stops are integrated into the voyage

  3. Wildlife sightings influence route and timing

  4. Safety and environmental responsibility are prioritized

Participants must prepare for:

  • Arctic weather and cold conditions

  • Remote and minimally equipped environments

  • Dynamic scheduling and expedition-style living

How to Apply / What to Do

Step 1: Develop a Strong Project Proposal

Include:

  • Research question or creative objective

  • Methodology suitable for short field stops

  • Expected outcomes

  • SDG alignment

  • Contingency and risk planning

Step 2: Ensure Logistical Feasibility

  • Confirm project adaptability

  • Identify required research permits

  • Plan equipment and materials for Arctic conditions

Step 3: Demonstrate Ambassador Readiness

Show ability to:

  • Communicate effectively

  • Present research onboard

  • Engage with program participants and crew

  • Complete reporting and deliverables

Step 4: Budget for Non-Covered Costs

Plan funding for:

  • Flights and hotels outside the expedition

  • Emergency evacuation insurance (USD 500,000 minimum)

  • Personal onboard expenses and gratuities

Step 5: Submit Application

Ensure:

  • Complete documentation

  • Clear deliverables and timelines

  • Alignment with program objectives

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Proposing projects requiring uninterrupted fieldwork

  • Ignoring weather-dependent scheduling constraints

  • Failing to secure research permits in advance

  • Underestimating Arctic conditions and logistics

  • Submitting vague or overly theoretical proposals

  • Not budgeting for mandatory insurance and personal expenses

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the expedition dates?

June 28 – July 10, 2026

2. Is the program fully funded?

No. The expedition berth and charter flights are covered; participants fund commercial flights, insurance, hotels, and personal expenses

3. What type of insurance is required?

Mandatory emergency evacuation insurance with a minimum coverage of USD 500,000

4. Can academic researchers apply?

Yes. Research proposals are encouraged if adaptable to expedition conditions

5. Are arts-based projects eligible?

Yes. Creative and arts-based field projects are welcome if expedition-compatible

6. Do projects need to align with the SDGs?

Strongly preferred, especially for climate, biodiversity, or cultural sustainability themes

7. Are research permits required?

Yes. Participants must secure any necessary permits before departure

Conclusion

The Young Explorers Program 2026 is a unique Arctic expedition that combines field research, interdisciplinary exploration, and SDG-aligned projects.

It provides selected participants the opportunity to explore Greenland’s landscapes, document biodiversity, preserve cultural heritage, and contribute to global sustainability knowledge.

Applicants with realistic, adaptable, and impact-driven projects are best positioned to succeed in this competitive and transformative program.

For more information, visit Adventure Canada.