Young innovators in B.C. are being invited to present their projects to better the future.
The Ingenious+ Challenge, which is led by the Rideau Hall Foundation, is offering $250,000 in prizes and mentorship opportunities, with some funding specifically dedicated to B.C. winners.
Canadians aged 14 to 18 years old can submit projects in one of five categories:
- Community and civic engagement
- Climate change and the environment
- Equity and inclusion
- Health and well-being
- Technology and Entrepreneurship
“Young people have incredible power to drive positive change in their communities,” Rideau Hall Foundation president and CEO Teresa Marques said in a news release.
“Through the Ingenious+ Challenge, we’re offering youth in British Columbia — and across Canada — the chance to elevate their innovations with funding and expert mentorship.”
The challenge will see up to 200 regional winners from B.C. Each will receive $1,000 along with mentorship and learning opportunities.
Winners will also have the chance to move on to the national competition where finalists can win $1,000 or one of five national awards of $10,000.
Past Western Canada winners have included innovative solutions like portable water filtration systems for rural communities, alert systems for cyclists and drivers to prevent "dooring" incidents and startups turning plastic waste into 3D printing filament.
Ingenious+ Challenge applications are open online and can be submitted until Feb. 28, 2025.
