The Leaders Circle Research Grant Program is a cornerstone benefit for ambassadors who helped secure international conferences for Toronto, extending the value of these meetings well beyond the event itself.
Following a successful bid, eligible ambassadors can apply for grants of up to $50,000 to support research or initiatives aligned with the conference’s focus. The program is designed to convert conference momentum into lasting impact, advancing innovation, strengthening sector capacity, and reinforcing Toronto’s position as a global hub for knowledge exchange.
By investing in projects that emerge directly from hosted events, Leaders Circle ensures that international conferences deliver measurable, long-term outcomes for the local community, driving collaboration, accelerating insights, and supporting sustained growth across key industries.
Updates on funded projects will be shared as they progress, with a focus on outcomes, lessons learned, and sector impact.
Announcement: Three New Grants
Leaders Circle is excited to announce three latest Research Grants to Ambassadors
One Harp World
Ambassador: Mrs. Kathryn McManus
The Leaders Circle Research Grant will enable One Harp World to support emerging artists from diverse backgrounds, providing access to the congress and the opportunity to build new skills, gain fresh insights, and draw creative inspiration. Participants will also cultivate global networks, positioning them to shape the future of the arts through continued innovation, collaboration, and creative leadership.
19th World Congress of the World Association for Infant Mental Health
Ambassador: Dr. Chaya Kulkarni
Infant and Early Mental Health Promotion (IEMHP), a program of The Hospital for Sick Children, is leading a vital initiative to strengthen how the Greater Toronto Area supports the mental health and development of children from birth to six years of age. Supported by the Leaders Circle Research Grant, the Infant and Early Mental Health Care Pathways initiative addresses key challenges faced by families and practitioners, including long wait times, limited training opportunities, and fragmented service coordination.
By improving cross-sector collaboration, enhancing practitioner knowledge and skills, and simplifying access to supports for families, the initiative aims to create a more connected and effective system of care. Ultimately, the IEMH Care Pathways initiative is designed to leave a legacy by transforming how early childhood mental health is understood, identified, and supported across communities and regions.
15th World Chambers Congress
Ambassador: Ontario Chamber of Commerce
In 2026, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce will launch the Global Chamber Leadership Study to examine the qualities, skills, and supports that drive effective chamber leadership worldwide. Through a global survey, focus groups, and executive interviews, the study will help inform the future of leadership development, with findings to be presented at the 15th World Chambers Congress in 2027.
We look forward to sharing updates as each project advances, including learnings, outcomes, and the impact created for Toronto.