The International Canoe Federation has unveiled a new Innovation Fund designed to spark fresh thinking and fast-track improvements across all areas of canoe sport – from event delivery and digital engagement to sustainability, broadcast, and beyond.
ICF Committees, National Federations, Continental Associations and partner organisations have been given the chance to apply for a slice of €500,000 for 2025-26.
Applications are open to secure funding towards initiatives that bid to improve fan and venue experiences and make events more attractive to the public.
Projects should primarily focus on areas including enhancing event atmosphere and fan experience, using data from the field of play to enrich broadcasts and spectator engagement and innovating officiating methods to reduce costs while improving event delivery.
Objectives, expected impact, and a budget plan must be outlined within the proposals.
Deadlines of 12 June, 11 September and 4 December have been set for submissions.
Proposals will be reviewed by an ICF Working Group after each deadline with funding decisions made based on alignment with strategic goals.
ICF Vice President Luciano Buonfiglio is Chair of the Working Group that also features ICF Treasurer Li Xin, ICF Secretary General Richard Pettit and ICF Athletes’ Committee Chair Bridgitte Hartley.
Mr Buonfiglio said: “By launching this Innovation Fund, our Committees, National Federations, Continental Association and partner organisations now have an opportunity to support us in building an even stronger sport for the future.
“We encourage our ICF community to seize this opportunity to help to further enhance our Fit for Future Evolution strategy.
“All proposals will be considered if they demonstrate a clear benefit to the wider development of paddlesport.”
Submit applications to alessia.cirillo@canoeicf.sport.
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