It’s an exciting time of year! The Royal College Recognition team officially introduced the new Rural and Remote Team Innovation Grant in addition to launching the nomination process for the 2026 National and Honorary Awards. The deadline to receive grant applications and award nominations is September 14, 2025.

New Rural and Remote Team Innovation Grant – a commitment of $250,000 in funding

The Royal College is pleased to introduce the new Rural and Remote Team Innovation Grant. Developed based on advice from the Royal College’s new National Advisory Committee on rural and remote practice, this grant supports community-driven solutions that solve local challenges.

Thinking of a rural health care project that could have significant and lasting impacts on your community? With up to $250,000 in funding available in two separate categories, the grant is open to members of the Royal College and the health care teams they work with who provide care to, or practise in, rural and remote regions in Canada.

National and Honorary Awards – Shine a light on those who deserve it!

Open to specialist physicians and surgeons as well as other professionals from Canada and beyond our borders, recipients of these awards are recognized for their contributions to the specialty medical field, Royal College organizational priorities, and the health care of patients.

In 2025, a comprehensive redesign of the National and Honorary Awards information, including the application form, was completed to streamline and modernize the nomination experience. Key changes include a new anonymous feedback form to formulate meaningful recognition as well as clarity on eligibility and the nomination process. 

Who inspires you? Nominating a peer is more than recognition — it’s a powerful way to build connections, encourage collaborations, and grow a supportive community. Before submitting a nomination, watch the two-minute video below that walks you through each step of the process to help you prepare.

Interested? Visit Awards and funding to learn more about our awards, recognize a peer or apply for the new grant.