Invitation to Apply
2026 Member Showcase
Call for Research Posters

Autism Alliance of Canada welcomes researchers and trainees from across Canada at all career stages to submit a poster for display during the CALS2026 Member Showcase.

Posters should align with one or more of the five priority areas of Canada's National Autism Strategy:

• Screening, Diagnosis, and Services
• Economic Inclusion and Workplace Accessibility
• Data Collection, Public Health Surveillance, and Research
• Public Awareness, Understanding, and Acceptance
• Tools, Resources, and Technologies for Autistic Individuals, Families, and Caregivers

In addition to posters aligned with the above priority areas, we welcome submissions related to artificial intelligence, including:

• AI-Driven Innovation for Inclusion: Your research focuses on new AI technologies, tools, or applications that directly improve access, participation, or opportunities for Autistic people.
• Inclusive AI Design for Autistic people, their family members, and/or caregivers: Your research centers on how AI systems are designed, emphasizing participatory design, accessibility, ethical considerations, and/or meaningful engagement with Autistic users.
• AI Research Advancing Autism Inclusion: Your research generates new knowledge, evidence, or frameworks showing how AI can support or enhance inclusion for the autism community.

Please note: Posters do not need to relate to AI to be eligible for CALS2026.

Submission Requirements & Deadlines

Submissions will be evaluated on relevance, clarity, and potential to improve the lives of Autistic people and their families.

Submission deadline: Friday, January 30, 2026 (11:59 p.m. E.S.T)
Notification of decision: the week of February 13, 2026

Financial Accessibility Bursary

The CALS 2026 Financial Accessibility Bursary Program is designed to help reduce financial barriers and support the meaningful participation of an autistic person and/or a caregiver or support person. To learn more, click HERE.

Bursary application deadline: Wednesday, January 15, 2026 (11:59 p.m. E.S.T)
Notification of decision: the week of January 26, 2026

Research Poster Display Format

Researchers will display their posters in-person at the Fairmont Château Laurier during the CALS2026 Member Showcase: Networking Session with Research Posters and Visual Displays.

Dates: April 14, 15, and 16

Please note that selected presenters are responsible for their own travel and accommodation arrangements, as well as their registration fees to attend the Summit.

If you require additional support to complete the application, please don’t hesitate to contact us at summit@autismalliance.ca

More Information

Why Present Your Work?
Presenting your research at CALS2026 provides a unique opportunity to share your work with Autistic people, their families or support persons, community leaders, policymakers, and other researchers dedicated to improving autism supports across Canada.

At CALS 2026, you can:

• Showcase Your Impact - Share your work with a diverse audience eager to learn about the latest, emerging, and promising research.
• Expand Your Network - Build connections with leaders in healthcare, education, advocacy, government, and more. Discuss research findings, forge partnerships, and strengthen the link between research and real-world solutions.

We look forward to receiving your submission!