Selection process in place. Limited spots available.
Applications close on Jan 5th 11:59 p.m. (ET), 2026
One Summer,
Endless Impact
Shad isn’t just a summer program. It’s a life-changing experience that inspires students to explore their passions, build leadership, and connect with a community of dreamers and doers. Through hands-on STEAM learning, real-world challenges, and lifelong friendships, Shad empowers next generation of leaders to see what’s possible and gives them the confidence to make it happen.
Spark innovation through hands-on STEAM and entrepreneurship projects
Tackle real-world challenges alongside Canada’s brightest peers and mentors
Join a national network of like-minded thinkers, innovators and leaders
Build the confidence, creativity, and leadership skills to make an impact
Your Shad
Your Way
Shad offers four unique ways to experience the program. Each pathway follows the same balanced design of STEAM, community, and design challenges, with enriching experiences that build confidence and leadership.
All on-campus programs (Live-in, A-Plus, and Unplugged) are offered at the same fee, while Shad Virtual offers a flexible online option.
2026 Program Dates
Live-in / A-Plus / Unplugged: July 5 – July 31 | 24/7
Virtual: July 6 – July 31 | Monday – Friday, 11 am – 5 pm ET
Who can apply?
We’re looking for Grade 10 and 11 students who are curious, creative, and ready to make a difference.
Fees & Assistance
At Shad Canada, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to potential. Go to Fees & Assistance page to learn more about the program cost, or explore our scholarship options.
Accessibility
To request application accommodations such as needing application material in an alternate format for students with disabilities or students in remote areas please contact Michelle@shad.ca.
Indigenous Support
Shad is committed to welcoming and supporting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students in our programs. Visit our Indigenous Page to learn about dedicated supports, funding opportunities, and stories from Indigenous Shad students.
2026 Program Dates
Live-in / A-Plus / Unplugged: July 5 – July 31 | 24/7
Virtual: July 6 – July 31 | Monday – Friday, 11 am – 5 pm ET
Who can apply?
We’re looking for Grade 10 and 11 students who are curious, creative, and ready to make a difference.
Fees & Assistance
At Shad Canada, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to potential. Go to Fees & Assistance page to learn more about the program cost, or explore our scholarship options.
Accessibility
To request application accommodations such as needing application material in an alternate format for students with disabilities or students in remote areas please contact Michelle@shad.ca.
Indigenous Support
Shad is committed to welcoming and supporting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students in our programs. Visit our Indigenous Page to learn about dedicated supports, funding opportunities, and stories from Indigenous Shad students.
Register for our info sessions online or in person to learn more about Shad and get your questions answered. Check the Event Calendar for upcoming dates.
All Shad online sessions are scheduled in Eastern Time (ET). Zoom sessions have limited capacity and registration does not guarantee entry. Participants are responsible for their own technical setup and internet connection.
Browse answers to the most common questions from students and parents about the Shad experience and application process here.
Connect one-on-one with a Shad recruiter who can guide you through the application process. OR simply drop in one of our office hours to start a conversation.
You can request a Shad event at your school or community center. Our team will share what Shad is about, answer your questions, and help future applicants explore the program.
Register for our info sessions online or in person to learn more about Shad and get your questions answered. Check the Event Calendar for upcoming dates.
All Shad online sessions are scheduled in Eastern Time (ET). Zoom sessions have limited capacity and registration does not guarantee entry. Participants are responsible for their own technical setup and internet connection.
Browse answers to the most common questions from students and parents about the Shad experience and application process here.
Connect one-on-one with a Shad recruiter who can guide you through the application process.
You can request a Shad event at your school or community center. Our team will share what Shad is about, answer your questions, and help future applicants explore the program.
| Title | Description | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Info Session | This Shad online info session is a live Zoom event where you’ll discover what the Shad 2026 program is all ... see more | 1764703800 2nd December 2025, 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM |
| Info Session | This Shad online info session is a live Zoom event where you’ll discover what the Shad 2026 program is all ... see more | 1765481400 11th December 2025, 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM |
| Info Session | This is the final info session for Shad2026.This Shad online info session is a live Zoom event where you’ll discover ... see more | 1765999800 17th December 2025, 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM |
| Info Session | This Shad online info session is a live Zoom event where you’ll discover what the Shad 2026 program is all ... see more | 1765035000 6th December 2025, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM |
Shad is celebrating our growth to 30 post-secondary campus partners across Canada, and we’re marking the moment with something special. Three Shad 2026 students who apply before December 15th will win the chance to enjoy a private lunch with Tim Jackson, Shad’s CEO, in their home city. Tim is a respected leader in innovation, entrepreneurship, and youth development, and this opportunity offers valuable mentorship, meaningful conversation, and insight into navigating education, careers, and real-world impact.
Check out our Shad application tips and tricks to help your application tell your unique story.
Whether it’s diving into an essay question or identifying a reference, prepare each part of your application as early as possible.
If you work on your application over several days, remember to save your application each time before exiting.
If you exceed the word count, an error message will appear, and you won’t be able to submit your application.
Complete the reference section promptly so your reference has time to complete and submit their recommendation before the application deadline.
Once you submit your application, changes cannot be made. Make sure your final application is just the way you want it.
You must hit the final green SUBMIT button for us to receive your application, and check for a confirmation email.
Join Canada’s most exciting STEAM and entrepreneurship program and spend July 2026 discovering new passions, building lifelong friendships, and shaping bold ideas that matter.
Selection process in place. Limited spots available.
Applications close on Jan 5th 11:59 p.m. (ET), 2026
Apply before Dec. 15
for a chance to win a lunch with Shad CEO, Tim Jackson
Submit your Shad 2026 application by Dec. 15, 2025 to enter. See full details on Apply Page.
