Rise to the Challenge!

Harness your creativity to drive social change in your community.

Are you a creative thinker who is passionate about solving social challenges in your community? Do you think technology can be used to achieve social change? Join like-minded thinkers and leaders for a two-day collaborative process on November 3rd & 4th, 2017 where you will work in teams to create new startups that apply sharing economy solutions to Ontario’s food security and food waste challenges. Teams will prototype and pitch their ideas and a prize package worth 10K in cash and 25K in services will be awarded! Both individuals and pre-existing teams / enterprises are welcome to join.

“Successful businesses are those that value corporate social responsibility and provide support to improve lives and communities across the province. We are pleased to partner with Ryerson University to help develop innovative solutions to address social and environmental challenges, including waste reduction and food security. The ideas generated through this event will help shape new business models, protect the rights of workers and consumers, and foster greater benefit to our economy.”

Charles Sousa_Minister of Finance

Charles Sousa, Minister of Finance

Brad Duguid, Minister of Economic Development and Growth

“There are so many possibilities to be realized by exploring the sharing economy. Ontario’s forward-thinkers are passionate and ready to make a difference in our communities, and these creative solutions have the potential to build the foundation for tomorrow’s businesses. This is our chance to design Ontario’s future. We look forward to working with Ryerson University to help achieve social change and stimulate growth in this new and evolving marketplace.”

Who Should Get Involved?

Participants must be 18 years of age or older. Aside from this, we invite participation from individuals with a diverse range of skillsets. No prior experience with design thinking is required!

We welcome:

Students across all disciplines
Individuals and teams
Existing social enterprises
Budding social entrepreneurs or those with an interest in social entrepreneurship
Sharing economy entrepreneurs, or those with an interest in it
App designers
Techies and coders
Creative, bold and innovative thinkers
People of all ages