THE 2026 SHE’S GOT NEXT
STARTING FIVE AWARD
Five athletes. $1,200 each. Funded, promoted, and welcomed into a community that’s fully behind them.
Applications open May 15 – June 15
SHE’S GOT NEXT exists to elevate women’s sports in Canada and open doors for the next generation. We believe athletes make exceptional leaders — and we want to help make sure the leadership skills developed through sport continue to create impact long after the final whistle.
The Starting Five Award supports athletes who are thinking about what comes next — whether that’s pursuing national team competition, stepping into coaching, or building a meaningful career beyond sport.
In this first year, five athletes are selected as the Starting Five — women who are ready to keep leading, keep growing, and keep opening doors for others.
WHAT STARTING FIVE ATHLETES RECEIVE
FUNDING, VISIBILITY, & COMMUNITY
Each Starting Five athlete receives the same package, built around community, not just a cheque
GRANT FUNDING $1,200 in funding
To support training, education, certifications, or career development.
SHE’S GOT NEXT MEMBERSHIP
Membership connects you to accomplished women across industries who understand the discipline, resilience, and leadership developed through sport — and are committed to supporting each other’s growth.
VISIBILITY
Recipients are introduced to the SHE’S GOT NEXT network and highlighted across our channels, building awareness among leaders who value the drive, discipline, and leadership developed through sport.
THE HUDDLE
A small-group experience, just for the Starting Five. Over the year, you’ll sit down with accomplished women from the SGN community who’ve been exactly where you are — they’ll share their experiences, answer questions, and try to make your path a little smoother.
Eligibility and details
is this award for you?
This award is open to women and non-binary athletes competing on women’s teams. To be eligible you must be a current 4th or 5th year varsity athlete competing at a Canadian college or university or a current or former Canadian National Team athlete at the junior or senior level.
This program supports athletes who compete in women’s sport categories. We welcome applications from women and non-binary athletes who have competed on Canadian women’s varsity teams or represented Canada in women’s national team programs. Recipients will be pursuing one of the following pathways:
Professional Careers After Sport Varsity or national-level athletes preparing to transition into a professional career after sport — including coaching, sport leadership, non-profits, business, or any other professional career track.
National Team Development Athletes progressing from university-level competition toward junior or senior national team selection, identified within an NSO Athlete Depth Chart.
Not eligible: AAP Carded Athletes (senior or development cards)
Funding can support education, training, certification, coaching development, career preparation, or other expenses that help you continue moving forward. You don’t need a detailed plan — we’re simply interested in how this support could help you take your next step.
No. Many athletes are still exploring what comes after university sport or national team competition. We’re looking for athletes who are thoughtful about their next step and motivated to keep growing.
No. You do not need to be a member to apply. If selected, recipients will receive access to the SGN community of professional women and leaders who want to support the next generation.
Yes. Coaches, mentors, teammates, and community members can nominate an athlete. If you are nominated, you will receive an invitation to apply.
Varsity applicants must be competing at a Canadian college or university. National Team athletes must represent Canada at the junior or senior level.
SHE’S GOT NEXT selects five athletes each year whose experiences, leadership, and goals align with the purpose of the program.
All recipients in the 2026 Starting Five cohort will be invited to participate in the SHE’S GOT NEXT community, including opportunities for connection, visibility, and events designed to support continued growth beyond sport.
Recipients will be invited into The Huddle, a small-group experience created just for the Starting Five. Over the year, you’ll sit down with accomplished women from the SHE’S GOT NEXT community who have made the same transition — sharing honest perspectives on the pivots, challenges, and moments that shaped what came next, along with connections to help along the way.
Applications close June 15. All applicants will be notified in July 2026.
KEY DATES
TIMELINE
STEP FORWARD
ARE YOU READY TO START?
SHE’S GOT NEXT is investing in five athletes this year who are ready to take their next step — in sport, in leadership, and in their careers.
KNOW AN ATHLETE WHO SHOULD BE CONSIDERED?
Not every exceptional athlete puts herself forward. If you know someone who stands out for her leadership, her service, and what she’s capable of — tell us. It takes two minutes, and it could change her year.