A Summer of Possibility for
First Nations Youth
Grow your gifts. Shape your future.
Join a national community of changemakers.
Pathways to Post-Secondary
As a participant, you’ll live and learn on campus at a leading post-secondary institution—experiencing first-hand what life after high school can look like. You’ll connect with
Elders, professors, researchers, and student mentors who can help you explore what’s next, whether it’s science, technology, engineering, arts, math (STEAM), or entrepreneurship.
Max Barten
Berens River First Nation
Max, member of Berens River First Nation, shares how Shad opened his mind to endless possibilities.
Shad is more than a summer program—it’s a place where curiosity and culture come together.
Tyrin Swiftwolfe
Saulteaux First Nation
Tyrin, Saulteaux First Nation and a Shad2023 alum, shares his view on the beautiful bond he made with a diverse group of youth at Shad.
A Fun Way to Spend the Summer
This is your chance to spend July surrounded by inspiring peers from across the country. You’ll make friends, share stories, and explore new communities and campuses. Beyond the classroom, you’ll dive into social activities, cultural events, and community experiences that make summer at Shad unforgettable.
Sky-Lee Rider
Cega’ Kin Nakoda Nation
Sky-Lee, member of Cega’ Kin Nakoda Nation in rural Saskatchewan, talks about how Shad’s inclusive and diverse environment gave her a true sense of belonging.
Why Shad?
Your voice, teachings, and future matter.
Shad is a place to grow, connect, and dream big.
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.
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.
Your Shad. Your Way
Scholarships for Indigenous youth
We offer ten entrance scholarships for Indigenous students from across Canada as a step towards removing barriers that have historically limited Indigenous representation in STEAM pathways and careers. By elevating Indigenous knowledge, these scholarships celebrate the power of community, Indigenous excellence, knowledge sharing, and Indigenous students shaping boundless futures. Shad Entrance Scholarships for Indigenous students highlight students with community changemaker capabilities, those with a vision and commitment to future community impact, honouring their responsibilities to their community, and overall excellence. Shad Canada is committed to our journey of walking with Indigenous communities in healing, truth-telling and reconciliation.
What Indigenous Students Are Saying About Shad
95%
of Indigenous students
said Shad boosted their confidence in meaningful ways
90%
of Indigenous students said
felt better prepared for post-secondary education after the program
95%
of Indigenous students
described the program as meaningful and impactful
90%
of Indigenous students
would recommend Shad to others
*Based on Shad participant survey results collected post-program.
From ideas to impact
Looking back at Shad’s real-world design challenge themes
Innovative and sustainable transportation solutions
Integrate green energy sources for sustainable communities
Reimagine sustainable living spaces for Canadians
Improve the well-being of Canadians
Help Canadians treat our fresh water with more respect
Leverage space as a creative research platform to advance humankind
Impactfully reduce waste
Resilience in a natural disaster
Meaningfully reducing Canada’s energy footprint
Improve food security for Canadians
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.