McGill University Decarbonization Leaders Program 2025–2026

Deadline: September 1, 2025

The McGill University Decarbonization Leaders Program 2025–2026 is now open for applications, offering McGill students the opportunity to strengthen their leadership skills in sustainability, climate action, and organisational development. This initiative is designed to empower student leaders who are committed to advancing decarbonisation and creating impactful strategies within their organisations.

Applications close on September 1, 2025, making this a timely chance for students to step up and make a difference in the fight against climate change.

About the McGill University Decarbonization Leaders Program 2025–2026

This annual leadership initiative provides selected McGill students with training, coaching, and resources to drive meaningful change in sustainability and decarbonisation efforts. Running throughout the academic year, the program equips participants with skills in strategic planning, leadership, and collaboration while connecting them with professionals and peers in the field.

The program culminates in March 2026 with a high-profile pitch event, where participants present their organisation’s strategic plans to potential donors and partners, ensuring their work gains visibility and support.

Eligibility Criteria

The program is open to McGill students who are actively engaged in or aspiring to join the university’s sustainability and decarbonisation efforts. The application categories include:

Student Organisations
- Each organisation may nominate up to two participants:
  - One executive leader
  - One nominee
- At least one nominee must be a returning student in the upcoming academic year to ensure continuity and succession planning.
Individual Applicants
- Students who are not yet part of a group but are interested in joining or founding a new student organisation focused on sustainability or decarbonisation may also apply.

This ensures the program is accessible not only to existing student leaders but also to individuals eager to step into leadership roles.

Program Benefits

Selected participants will gain access to a comprehensive support system, including:

Workshops on sustainability leadership and organisational strategy
One-on-one coaching tailored to individual and team goals
Peer networking opportunities to connect with other student leaders
Guidance from professional experts in sustainability and decarbonisation
A structured pathway to create a strategic plan for their organisation with peer and expert feedback

The final pitch event in March 2026 provides a platform to showcase strategic plans to stakeholders, potential partners, and donors, making the program both a learning experience and a launchpad for impactful action.

Why Apply?

By joining this program, students will:

Build strong leadership and strategic planning skills
Gain exposure to sustainability professionals and networks
Strengthen the impact and continuity of their student organisations
Position themselves as leaders in McGill’s sustainability community

This is not only a chance to contribute to McGill’s decarbonisation mission but also an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy on campus.

Application Details

Deadline: September 1, 2025
Who Should Apply: McGill students involved in sustainability or decarbonisation groups, as well as individual students looking to join or found such initiatives