Panel Proposals (full description of criteria is below)

1. Quality of the proposed session (30%)
2. Action and solution-oriented focus (20%)
3. Innovative and Interactive Panel Format (20%)
4. Diversity of Panelists (15%)
5. Quality of Speakers & Moderator (15%)

• Quality of the Proposed Session (30%)
  • Demonstrates a deep understanding of the issue
  • Provides a clear, compelling description of the panel topic and its novelty, importance, and impact
  • Aligns with CSPC 2026 overarching theme and tracks
• Action & Solution-Oriented Focus (20%)
  • Prioritizes actions, solutions, impact-oriented outcomes, and forward-looking proposals rather than reiterating the status quo
  • Incorporates follow-ups, calls to action, or policy change discussions
• Innovative and Interactive Panel Format (20%)
  • Encourages creative and engaging formats beyond traditional panel discussions
  • Balances expert insights and audience engagement, ensuring an inclusive, thought-provoking experience (i.e., leaving enough time for Q&A)
  • Use of polls or other tools for audience engagement is encouraged
• Diversity of Panelists (15%)
  • Gender and Equity Representation: Ensures gender diversity and includes underrepresented and equity-deserving groups. Women and/or gender diverse people must make up half of the panelists.
  • Sectoral Diversity: Must feature panelists from at least two different sectors (government, academia, business, non-profit, media).
  • Geographical Representation: Requires representation from at least two different provinces/territories in Canada and/or international representation.
  • Diversity of Perspectives: Must include panelists with varied viewpoints and expertise.
    • Preference for a combination of established experts and emerging voices, including younger speakers.
    • No more than two individuals (including both panelists and the moderator) from the same organization.
    • Single-sector panels are permitted only in exceptional cases (e.g., panels of government science advisors or industry-specific panels)

Tip: Speakers representing the private sector are strongly encouraged.

• Quality of Speakers & Moderator (15%)
  • Panelists should have strong expertise, experience, and relevance to the panel topic
    • Panelists with the ability to garner public attention are encouraged
    • The moderator’s role is crucial:
      • Must be experienced, engaging, and able to facilitate discussion and audience interaction
      • Should have subject matter expertise and familiarity with panelists
      • Ability to manage time effectively and ensure a dynamic conversation

Tip: To encourage panelists from the private sector, and first-time CSPC speakers – A small bonus may be given for panels that introduce new voices to CSPC discussions.

Short Talks, Project Updates, or Policy Proposals (10 minute talks, of which 2 minutes is dedicated to Q&A)

CSPC will once again feature the option of short and impactful sessions. These 8 minute sessions must be either: a short-talk featuring one speaker, with no slide presentation that focuses on broad and impactful ideas, or a presentation of updates and follow-up on a previously presented project at CSPC.

• Importance: Addresses a timely and relevant issue to the conference tracks (35%)
• Novelty: Proposes action, new solutions, emerging trends, or breakthrough discussions not previously explored at CSPC (35%)
• Insightfulness: Provides original analysis, valuable perspectives, or a fresh approach to a topic (30%)

Note: If CSPC receives multiple submissions covering similar topics, submissions may be grouped into a Symposium format to allow for a more structured and in-depth discussion.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA)

CSPC is committed to EDIA principles and strongly encourages the inclusion of:

• Indigenous perspectives and leadership in science, technology, innovation, and knowledge (STIK) policy
• Women and underrepresented groups in STIK

Important Notes:

• No fee is required to submit a panel proposal.
• Panelists will have a discounted registration rate.
• CSPC does not cover speakers’ travel and accommodation costs.
• Panelists’ confirmation is not required at the time of submission but must be finalized within three weeks of acceptance.
• CSPC may request panelist adjustments if diversity or quality criteria are not met.

To foster stronger interactivity, CSPC 2026 encourages varied and engaging panel formats.

Why Prioritize Interactive Formats?

CSPC aims to create a dynamic and engaging conference experience. Interactive formats encourage:

• Deeper discussions beyond traditional presentations
• Greater audience participation and diverse viewpoints
• Action-oriented and more impactful sessions

Preferred Panel Formats (Higher Ranking)

The following formats (not in order of preference) will receive higher format scoring (criteria No. 3) as they encourage novel and interactive formats:

1. Interactive Format (80 min session, e.g., Fishbowl)

• Engages both panelists and audience members in a highly interactive manner
• The proposal must specify the format and engagement plan

2. Innovative Format (80 min, e.g., Lightning Round, Pecha Kucha, World Café)

• Engages audience members in a non-traditional panel form
• The proposal must specify format and creative components

3. Debate (80 min)

• Features structured opposing arguments on a critical issue among two individuals or two groups (maximum four)
• The proposal must define key opposing viewpoints

4. Workshop (Learning Session) (80 min)

• Designed to extensively engage the audience in group learning, education, and/or planning activities

5. Fireside Chat or Interviews (60 min)

• A moderated discussion in a conversational, storytelling format
• Focuses on thought leadership and insights, followed by audience Q&A

Tip: Consider adding a blended format option – Some sessions could integrate multiple elements (e.g., a debate followed by an audience discussion).

Standard Panel Formats (Still Eligible, Lower Ranking for Format Criteria)

The following formats are permitted but will not receive the highest ranking for interactivity (Criteria No. 3):

1. Standard Panel Discussion (80 min)

• Traditional format with expert panelists discussing a topic
• Presentations cannot exceed 50 minutes; at least 30 minutes must be allocated for Q&A or audience activities

2. Green Paper Discussion (80 min)

• Based on a consultation document that seeks input on an existing or developing policy
• Encourages policy-oriented discussion and feedback

3. Case Study (60 min)

• Presents a detailed analysis of a particular issue or real-world example
• Explores lessons learned and best practices