Explore how to generate impact from your research in Innovation UBC’s 2021 Research Impact Challenge.

Pitch Competition
The Innovation UBC Research Impact Challenge culminated with a pitch competition on May 6, 2021.
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Through a specialized series of education sessions, networking, and a set of mini-challenges you can leverage support from the Innovation UBC network to start moving your idea towards impact. Then pitch your idea at a networking event and compete to win a cash prize.

UBC researchers from all disciplines are invited to take part. Ideas might focus on offering solutions to key societal, health or economic challenges such as climate change, a post-pandemic society, digital security, food security or social justice. They could be technology-based, for example in artificial intelligence or advanced materials, community-focused or aimed at changing practice or policy.

Taking part in the challenge can help you to start your journey from research to impact along the most appropriate pathways, including knowledge exchange, developing partnerships, venture building or commercialization.

The Research Impact Challenge is presented by four units in the Innovation UBC network: Innovation Partnerships, the Knowledge Exchange Unit, entrepreneurship@UBC and the University-Industry Liaison Office.


Format:

Education sessions

Following a kick-off event on Feb 22, 2021, there will be a series of weekly 90-minute lunchtime sessions from February 25 to April 8, 2021.

Through presentations, breakout sessions and mini-challenges you will build a valuable network of peers and mentors and access the support you need to develop the potential impact of your idea.

Pitch competition

A pitch competition and networking event will be held at the end of April, at which you can pitch your idea to potential partners, innovation leaders, venture specialists, mentors and investors. A total of $3,000 in cash prizes will be awarded.


The education sessions and pitch competition will be hosted entirely online via Zoom, with presentations accessible as a recording. Registration is required.

Entry to the competition is not required for education session registration. However, in order to compete at the pitch competition, registrants must attend (live or recorded) all education sessions.
 


FAQs:

 

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