In November 2024, Polytechnics Canada and Ireland’s Higher Education Authority formalized a shared commitment to strengthen collaboration between Canadian polytechnics and Irish technological universities and institutes of technology. This partnership was grounded in a mutual recognition of common priorities, including advancing teaching and learning practices, supporting applied research and preparing learners with the skills needed to address global challenges such as digital transformation and the green transition.

Building on initial discussions in 2023, the partnership progressed through reciprocal visits to institutions in Ireland and Canada, leading to the launch of eight joint projects in September 2025. These projects, funded through a combined investment of nearly €800,000, represent the broader effort to explore new models of collaboration, innovation and delivery in applied higher education.

In April 2026, a virtual event was held for project leads to share progress and insights with peers. This event encouraged cross-project dialogue, allowed participants to learn from one another and find commonalities to enrich all projects.

The document summarizes key insights from the first phase of the collaboration and highlights progress to-date.