The men's competition was created with the inauguration of the Dominion of Canada Football Association in 1912 and the first club winners were presented the Connaught Cup in 1913.

As part of the same National Championships, the Jubilee Trophy is presented annually to the women's amateur soccer champions.

Since 1963, only amateur clubs have participated in the competition, with notably Montréal Concordia FC the last professional side to win the Challenge Trophy back in 1961.

As Canada Soccer's premier amateur competition, only Canadian citizens, permanent residents or protected persons may compete in the National Championships.

"[4] Bidders are evaluated across nine different categories: Background; Support and partnerships; Facilities; Competition; Finance; Communication, hosting services & activities; Operation Organization; Legacy; and Overall Bid Presentation.

[6] The inaugural competition in 1913 and the 1914 edition both featured four teams in a league format; both were won by Manitoba side Norwood Wanderers.

Prior to 1940, fifteen finals were played at Carruthers Park in Winnipeg (1923–1939), (roughly halfway across the country) five in Toronto and one each in Vancouver and Montreal.

As outlined in the tournament regulations,[3] "Provincial and Territorial Associations must advise Canada Soccer of its qualified teams" for the National Championships.