Application Deadline: August 3rd, 2026
LOCATION: Canada
The Hunter Prize for Public Policy aims to shake up Canadian policymaking by marshalling fresh ideas, energy, and voices to take on a clearly-defined “wicked problem” and improve the economic and social well-being of Canadians. The Hunter Prize is an initiative of the Centre for Civic Engagement. The Hub is the project’s media partner.
ELIGIBILITY:
The Problem:
A “wicked problem” is an issue or challenge that is difficult to solve for three reasons: (1) it involves interconnected economic, cultural, and social factors, (2) it tends to be long-term in nature, and (3) its possible solutions can be contentious due to entrenched thinking and interests.
A wicked problem currently hampering Canada’s long-term economic prospects is the decline in entrepreneurship and business dynamism.
How does this work?
Entrants are asked to consider our topic and challenge below, then provide a short synopsis of their policy proposal. All entries will be adjudicated by an esteemed panel of judges, including Jeff Adamson, Bram Belzberg, Zita Cobb, Lucy Hargreaves, and Charles Lammam. The judges will select 10 finalists to further refine and develop their ideas before vying for $50,000 in cash prizes and the chance to translate their idea into actionable public policy. The Hunter Prize submission period is open until August 2, 2026.
Submissions are limited to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and individuals on refugee, student, or work visas.
Canadian citizens living abroad can apply.
Entries can be made in English or French.
Rules and Expectations:
Initial submissions should be 1,500 words or less. Entry directions will be provided on the submission form.
If your initial submission is selected as one of ten finalists, you will be asked to produce a longer-form policy proposal (approximately 2,500-3,000 words) that further develops and refines your idea, including cost estimates, implementation plans, etc. Finalists will also be asked to produce an op-ed-style article in support of their proposal to be published at TheHub.ca.
Figures and tables cannot be included in the initial submission. However, if selected to be a finalist, figures and tables can be included in the longer-form papers.
Submissions can be co-authored, and the details of all authors should be included in the submission. Any potential winnings will be split among authors.
The Hunter Prize will only accept one submission per author.
BENEFIT:
The Hunter Prize will include $50,000 in prizes to be awarded.
The winner will receive a cash prize of $25,000 to translate their idea into public policy. The runner-up will receive a $5,000 prize. Those placing 3 through 10 will receive prizes of $2,500.
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