As Canada grapples with the rising costs and growing frequency of climate-driven disasters, the federal government has taken a decisive step to strengthen national flood resilience. A newly announced Request for Proposals (RFP) under the Flood Hazard Identification and Mapping Program (FHIMP) seeks to dramatically improve how we identify, map, and communicate flood risks across the country. This initiative marks a critical investment in the geospatial infrastructure needed to protect communities, guide land-use planning, and support climate adaptation at every level of government.

What is required?

The RFP calls for proposals to carry out:

• Compile and consolidate existing data on flood defense structures from diverse sources across Canada .
• Develop a standardized data model and schema for recording flood defenses consistently.
• Establish a framework and prototype for the Canada-wide Flood Defense Inventory.
• Identify data gaps, evaluate methodologies for completing the inventory and conduct additional data acquisition in pilot areas

Why does it matter?

Flooding is one of the most expensive and widespread climate-related risks in Canada. With increasing extreme rainfall and shifting weather patterns, having precise and current flood hazard maps is crucial for infrastructure planning, emergency management, land-use planning, and insurance industries.

This initiative goes beyond just creating maps; it aims to develop a comprehensive system of data and tools that can:

1. Assist municipalities in pinpointing vulnerable areas.
2. Direct investments toward mitigation and adaptation efforts.
3. Facilitate the incorporation of flood risk into development and land-use planning.
4. Improve public awareness and readiness.

What to watch

Contract duration: 16 months
The proposal deadline: November 12, 2025
Details: https://lnkd.in/eBRZtEGP