Canada's Next Sustainable Changemaker Challenge
To avoid the most catastrophic impacts of climate change, the world must limit global warming to 1.5°C. This requires the world to reach Net Zero emissions by 2050 and halve emissions by 2030 (from pre-industrial levels). As a startup founder, how is your solution reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions?
Are You Building A Startup That is Helping Drive the World to a Net-Zero Emissions Future?
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with experienced advisors, sustainability leaders and cleantech investors to scale your startup and make an impact toward Canada’s net-zero emissions goal! In the 6-Week Canada’s Next Sustainable Changemaker Challenge, you’ll gain access to sustainability leaders and investors to support your business growth. During this startup challenge, the Top 3 teams will pitch how their solutions are reducing GHG emissions to the Mackenzie Investments team.
The final pitch day also comes with grants worth $40,000 in cash value. 1st place will receive $25,000, 2nd place $10,000 and 3rd place $5,000.
All companies in the challenge will get complimentary access to Elevate Festival 2024, October 1-3, in Toronto to meet with investors, network with the tech ecosystem and engage in talks from thought leaders.
Eligibility Criteria
At Mackenzie, we’re on a mission to create a more invested world, together. Key to this mission is building a more sustainable future. One that protects and invests in our planet and our climate. To create this movement, we’re looking for tech startups that are building innovative solutions to cut greenhouse gas emissions to as close to zero as possible. By helping the world reach Net Zero in alignment with Mackenzie’s climate action plan, you’ll be part of the ecosystem that supports the goal of net-zero emissions.
You may be the perfect fit if your startup offers technologies that involve (but are not limited to) sustainable solutions that aim to achieve net-zero emissions, including:
- Startups building solutions in affordable and clean energy
- Startups focused on green solutions in real estate and property development
- Startups that aim to create more sustainable cities and communities
Key Dates
Jul 12, 2024
Applications OpenAug 9, 2024
Applications CloseAug 28, 2024
Program BeginsSep 30, 2024
Pitch DayOct 3, 2024
Program EndsWhat's in it for You
Showcase your business, grow your network, build your scaling strategy, and connect with sustainability investors when you apply to Canada’s Next Sustainable Changemaker Challenge
Access To Stakeholders
The opportunity to connect with and learn from thought leaders and subject matter experts in the sustainability space
Mentorship & Coaching
Access to a range of experienced coaches and mentors in various areas, including fundraising, marketing, and sales, who can guide you on the myriad ways to build and scale your business model
Network
Connect with experienced founders in the sustainability space to learn and gain insights into how to scale your startup technology
Pitch For A Prize
The opportunity to pitch your startup directly to Mackenzie executives at a pitch competition event and a chance to at part of the $40,000 grant package for your business!
Here's What You'll Take Away from the Challenge
Insights
Following a commitment to this 6-week program, participants will have received valuable insights into sustainability trends and advice from growth mentors on how to scale a business in key areas like sales, marketing and fundraising.
Connections & Brand Awareness
Engage directly with the Mackenzie and Elevate teams on opportunities to highlight the impact you’re making towards a net-zero world, including partnership introductions, marketing, and promotion.
If you satisfy the criteria, apply below.
