Project UpLift is back — applications to receive a pro-bono research project are now open!
At Upwords, we believe deeply in the power of qualitative research to create real, human impact.
We also know that many not-for-profit organizations don’t have the budget for sophisticated market research; and because of that they often lack access to insight they need to move forward with confidence.
That’s why we created Project UpLift.
Through Project UpLift, Upwords is offering our services free of charge to one Canadian not-for-profit or registered charity — providing strategic, human-centred insight to help inform programs, experiences, communications, or future direction.
To apply, the organization needs to complete our simple application form.
Our impact so far:
In our first Project UpLift, we partnered with Children of the Street, a BC-based organization dedicated to preventing the sexual exploitation and human trafficking of children and youth.
Here’s what their Director Jen Graham had to say:
“The findings report we received was fantastic – strategic, actionable, organized and inspiring. And the Upwords team were superb in executing the research; we were both clear on our roles from the onset and they kept us engaged and informed throughout. They are clearly experts in their craft.
We thank Upwords for using their time and talent to protect young people from this devastating crime.”
Project UpLift 2024 has since received national and international recognition, including the Canadian Research Insights Council (CRIC) 2025 Award of Excellence in the Public and Social Service Impact category, and the Silver ESOMAR Qualitative Excellence (Peter Cooper) Award.
Is Project UpLift right for your organization?
Project UpLift is a good fit if you:
- Serve a clearly defined audience or community
- Have questions that require deep, human understanding (not just metrics)
- Are prepared to collaborate and engage with Upwords throughout the research process
- Are open to sharing learnings publicly through case studies and/or presentations
How to apply:
Organizations are invited to submit an application by January 30, 2026. If you need more time, please reach out to Moderator@upwords.ca to let us know.
Short-listed applicants will be contacted in early February, with the selected organization announced on March 2, 2026.
If you know a not-for-profit that could benefit from strategic, award-winning qualitative research — please help us spread the word.
Insights can uplift. Let’s put them to work where they matter most.
Submission Details:
Link to application form
Submissions due to Upwords: January 30, 2026
Beneficiary notified: March 2
Project timeline: To be determined with beneficiary
Contact for more info: Moderator@upwords.ca