Program Launches to Support Community-Led International Cooperation by Canadian SMOs

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Canadian small and medium-sized organizations (SMOs) working in international cooperation now have access to a new funding and learning program, one designed to reduce barriers, support learning, and strengthen locally-led change.

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Canada LIFTs (LIFT) has been created to support Canadian non-profits and charities working in solidarity with local and international partners with access to flexible funding with practical resources, peer connection, and relevant learning opportunities. It will provide predictable opportunities for organizations to respond to community priorities and to engage with diverse public audiences in Canada and around the world.

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Developed with and for SMOs, LIFT reflects feedback from organizations seeking funding approaches and support that recognizes lived experience, local leadership, and the realities of working in dynamic contexts with limited resources.

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“SMOs have told us clearly that they want funding that meets them where they are, and that supports genuine partnership with communities,” said Janice Hamilton, on behalf of the Inter-Council Network (ICN). “LIFT responds to that call. It’s a program designed to reduce barriers, build trust, and help organizations work differently.”

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Funded by Global Affairs Canada, and led by the ICN, LIFT is designed to elevate the broader ecosystem of Canadian SMOs, their partners, and the communities they work.

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LIFT will open its first funding stream, Catalyst, focused on smaller funding amounts that support experimentation, learning and early impact. Additional streams will follow, with larger amounts and matching opportunities to scale, adapt and deepen collaboration.

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Alongside funding, a LIFT community of practice will connect organizations across regions and sectors, enabling peer learning.

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The ICN is delighted to have the support of The Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State, International Development who participated in an International Development Week event in Manitoba, where he spoke about the Canada LIFTs program and the important role SMOs play in International Cooperation.

 

Organizations interested in the program are invited to:

• Attend an information webinar on February 18, 2026

• Visit the info page for updates and eligibility details

 

 

For media inquiries, please contact:

 

Allison Langridge,

Senior Communications Specialist

LIFTprogram@mcic.ca  204-987-7409