The Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security Scholarship 2026 honors past Chairs of the Maple Leaf Foods’ Board of Directors by supporting advanced graduate research. Four scholarships of $15,000 each are awarded annually to Masters and PhD students enrolled in Canadian universities. The funding is specifically designated for research that addresses knowledge gaps regarding food insecurity in Canada, with a focus on high-risk groups including Indigenous and Black families, people with disabilities, and single adults. Applicants must be entering their second or third year of study and demonstrate a robust methodology for translating research into policy or program interventions. The application deadline is March 5, 2026.
Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security Scholarship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security |
| Study Location | Canada (Any accredited university) |
| Value | $15,000 per awardee |
| Number of Awards | Four (4) scholarships |
| Degree Level | Master’s or PhD |
| Research Duration | Up to two years |
| Main Focus | Canadian Food Insecurity |
| Deadline | March 5, 2026 |
Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security Scholarship 2026 Details
The Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security is committed to a goal of reducing food insecurity in Canada by 50% by 2030. To support this ambitious target, the Centre’s scholarship program invests in the next generation of researchers whose work can inform evidence-based policy and community-led interventions.
Join our Telegram Channel for Instant Scholarship Updates
By focusing on predictors, risk factors, and the efficacy of potential instruments like food prescriptions or benefit policies, the program bridges the gap between academic inquiry and real-world social impact. The scholarship honors the legacy of David Emerson, Wallace McCain, Purdy Crawford, and W. Geoffrey Beattie, reflecting a deep corporate and social commitment to civic leadership.
Benefits of the Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security Scholarship 2026
The scholarship utilizes a tiered selection system focused on research impact and academic rigor.
Tier 1: Graduate Research Scholarships ($15,000)
- Primary Funding: Four $15,000 scholarships distributed in the summer of 2026.
- Research Support: Financial assistance for research spanning up to two years, specifically for data collection, analysis, and thesis completion.
Tier 2: Priority Research Focus Recognition
- Targeted Populations: Special recognition for research focusing on groups at highest risk: Black and Indigenous families, single adults (18-64), and persons with disabilities.
- Intervention Analysis: Support for projects investigating the efficacy of market instruments and social programs (e.g., food benefit policies).
Tier 3: Knowledge Translation Support
- Policy Alignment: Encouragement for research that aligns with the Centre’s goal to alleviate national hunger.
- Strategic Dissemination: Recognition of candidates with clear plans for knowledge translation beyond the academic community.
Eligibility Requirements for the Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security Scholarship 2026
Graduate Scholarship 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Must be in good academic standing and demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research that fills knowledge gaps in Canadian food security.
- Study Status: Applicants must be a Master’s or PhD student of any discipline, entering their second or third year of graduate study in the 2026/2027 academic year.
- Visa Status: Must be enrolled at an accredited Canadian university (open to domestic and international students currently studying in Canada).
- Program Admission: Must be prepared to commence thesis research and cannot have received this specific scholarship previously for the same degree level.
How to Apply for the Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security Scholarship 2026 (Step by Step)
- Apply for Program: Complete the fillable application form provided by the Maple Leaf Centre, ensuring all personal and academic details are accurate.
- Automatic Evaluation: Submit a detailed 6-page research overview covering purpose, rationale, methodology, and alignment with the Centre’s goals.
- Eligibility Assessment: Ensure your research supervisor submits a letter of reference directly to
info@feedopportunity.comwith your full name in the subject line. - Notification of Award: The Research Sub-Committee reviews all applications and makes recommendations to the Board Chair; successful candidates are typically notified by the summer of 2026.
Application Deadline: March 5, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which disciplines are eligible for the Maple Leaf Centre scholarship?
The scholarship is open to students of any discipline, provided their thesis research focuses on food insecurity in Canada.
2. Can I apply if I am in the first year of my Master’s program?
No, you must be entering your second or third year of graduate study and be ready to start your thesis research in the 2026/2027 year.
3. Is the $15,000 paid all at once?
The scholarship is typically awarded in the summer of 2026 to support research that can span up to two years.
4. Do I need to be a Canadian citizen to apply?
No, you must be a student at a Canadian university, but the eligibility does not specify a citizenship requirement, only institutional enrollment.
5. What should be included in the CV?
The CV should highlight your academic history, relevant research experience, publications (if any), and community involvement related to food security.
6. Can my supervisor send the reference letter directly?
Yes, supervisors should email the letter to info@feedopportunity.com with the applicant’s name in the email title.
7. What is the maximum length for the research proposal?
The research overview section must be no longer than 6 single-spaced pages, excluding the list of references.
8. Are postdoctoral researchers eligible for this scholarship?
No, the program is currently limited to students enrolled in Master’s or PhD programs.
9. Can I apply if I already have other funding?
Yes, you are required to list other sources of funding in your proposal, but having other support does not automatically disqualify you.
10. Can I reapply if I won the scholarship during my Master’s?
You cannot reapply for the same degree. However, if you received the scholarship for your Master’s, you may apply again if you are now a PhD student.
