CBC/Radio-Canada is officially launching its national search for the artist who’ll represent Canada for the first time at the Eurovision Song Contest.

The largest live music competition in the world, Eurovision has helped reveal or propel the careers of artists like Céline Dion (who competed for Switzerland in 1988), ABBA, France Gall, Lara Fabian and Måneskin.

The public broadcaster, which obtained full membership in the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) in June, making it eligible to participate in the contest – says its year-one approach is to first select the artist who will represent Canada. That artist will then collaborate with top music industry talent to create Canada’s Eurovision song and performance.

CBC/Radio-Canada will open its Eurovision portal, starting Monday, Aug. 31, where interested Canadian artists will be able to learn more about eligibility and participation requirements.

“The Eurovision Song Contest is the biggest music stage in the world, and we invite artists from across Canada to be part of this remarkable adventure with us,” said Doug Smith, Executive Vice-President of CBC. “We are seeking a magnetic Canadian performer with a genuine passion for representing Canada and a proven track record of captivating very large live audiences, whether through exceptional vocal power, electrifying stage presence, or truly original artistry.”

Applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, aged 18+, with the registration window set to close on Wednesday, Sept. 9.

Following the submission period, CBC/Radio-Canada will determine a shortlist of finalists, which will be announced this fall. Canadians will then have the opportunity to vote online, with videos featuring each artist to be posted on the Eurovision Song Contest Canada website. The result from the public vote will be combined with a review from a music industry jury to determine which finalist will represent Canada in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest in Bulgaria next May.