EU provincial hubs initiative: Call for hub leads in Québec and Ontario

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EU provincial hubs initiative: Call for hub leads in Québec and Ontario

The European Union Delegation to Canada (EUD) is launching an EU Provincial Hub initiative in Québec and Ontario as part of its efforts to strengthen EU-Canada relations. This initiative aims to enhance the EU's presence in the province and foster closer ties with local stakeholders. The EU Hub in Québec/Ontario will serve as a collaborative and inclusive platform that connects local stakeholders with the EU to advance values, goals, and policy priorities in the provinces. This decentralized, locally led network will rely on strong partnerships across business, academia, culture, media, youth to drive EU-Canada collaboration on strategic priorities.

© EUDEL Canada

Role of the Hub Lead

The Hub Lead will act as the primary coordinator for the EU Hub in Québec/Ontario, building partnerships across key sectors and driving the design and implementation of initiatives that align with EU priorities while addressing Quebec/Ontario's unique context. In particular, the Hub Lead will:

• Serve as a liaison between local stakeholders, EU member states consulates and the EU Delegation to Canada
• Consolidate and manage a network of partners, organizing regular meetings and supporting continuous engagement
• Organize (an) annual flagship public diplomacy initiative(s) in Quebec/Ontario in line with the EU priorities and objectives.

Benefits of becoming the Hub Lead

Becoming the EU Hub in Quebec/Ontario Lead offers a unique opportunity to:

• Work closely with the EU Delegation and act as the key partner in the province
• Directly shape initiatives that strengthen EU-Canada relations and promote shared values within Quebec/Ontario
• Co-create and implement initiatives that advance EU-Canada relations
• Benefit from guidance, technical assistance and resources from the EU Policy and Outreach Partnership (EUPOP) project
• Participate in regular check-ins with the Hub Coordinator (EUPOP Team) to support the work of the Hub
• Connect with a wide range of local and international stakeholders, including other provincial Hubs, EU member states, and policymakers
• Receive invitations to participate in other initiatives of the EU Delegation to Canada

Selection criteria and commitment

The EU Hub in Quebec/Ontario requires a Hub Lead that acts as the primary point of contact for the EU Delegation to Canada to champion, coalesce, convene, and support the Hub network of partners in Quebec/Ontario.

Eligible organizations

Hub Leads may come from:

• Community-level not-for-profits
• Educational institutions
• Chambers of commerce or business councils
• Cultural centres or associations
• Research institutions
• Think tanks
• Youth or student associations

Selection criteria

The Hub Lead role will be chosen based on criteria including:

• Organization must be based and operate in Quebec/Ontario and be legally registered as an organization in Quebec/Ontario
• Demonstrated experience in EU-Canada relations and the EU role in Canada. Expertise in key priority areas such as climate action, research and innovation, trade, and human rights is desirable
• Proven track record of strong leadership in the community and demonstrated capacity to engage and mobilize a diversity of stakeholders
• Experience in organizing collaborative initiatives as, for instance, demonstrated through activity reports, with measurable outcomes and innovative approaches
• Evidence of active local partnerships and a robust network in key sectors (e.g., business, academia, culture, media, youth) that includes influential and community-based organizations capable of advancing EU Delegation priorities
• Commitment to the EU values of human dignity, freedom, equality, democracy, rule of law and respect for human rights

Hub Lead's commitment and expectations

The selected Lead Partner will commit to:

• Engaging in planning, implementation, and reporting on activities, ensuring alignment with the EU Hub goals and contribution to EU-Canada relations
• Developing, mobilizing, and sustaining a network of local stakeholders to drive EU initiatives and foster engagement
• Submit an annual report detailing achievements, insights, and challenges
• Designating an experienced and knowledgeable staff member as focal point.
• The Hub Lead focal point commits to engaging fully in the Hub activities outlined above and is expected to actively exchange ideas, share updates, and engage with the EU Delegation, EUPOP project team, Hub partners and other EU Hub Leads.

Application process

Interested organizations should submit an Expression of Interest by December 30, 2024. The selection process includes eligibility review, alignment with strategic priorities, and potential consultation.

1. Expression of Interest submission: complete the EOI form with details about your organization, strategic alignment, and contributions to the EU Hub objectives. You will receive a confirmation of receipt within 48 hours. We will use the email address provided in your application.
2. Evaluation and shortlisting: the EU Delegation to Canada will assess applications based on the abovementioned criteria.
3. Consultation: you may be contacted for an interview to describe in greater detail your vision of the potential partnership
4. Operationalization of the partnership: the partnership with the selected organization will be formalized through a Letter of Intent.

If you have any questions about this process or the EU Provincial Hubs Initiative, please contact [email protected]