Big ideas wanted: Applications open for the 2026 Mayor’s Innovation Challenge

Big ideas start here. If you know a post-secondary student with a passion for making Kingston better, encourage them to apply for the 2026 Mayor’s Innovation Challenge.

Offered in partnership with Queen’s University, St. Lawrence College, and the Royal Military College, the Mayor’s Innovation Challenge invites current and recently graduated students to turn bold ideas into real-world solutions that strengthen our community and shape the future of Kingston.

The winning teams will have an opportunity to gain valuable experience through the Summer Company program and a $10,000 prize, sponsored by Bell, to advance their idea, or a chance to turn their idea into a business venture with admission to the Queen’s Founders and Innovators Initiative (QFII) program and the opportunity to unlock up to $4,000 in seed funding, along with a chance to compete in their pitch competition with a prize pool of up to $80,000.

“I’m proud to kick off 2026 by opening applications for the ninth edition of the Mayor’s Innovation Challenge,” says Mayor Bryan Paterson. “Year after year, this initiative highlights the creativity and drive of Kingston’s post-secondary students. I’m looking forward to seeing how this new group of innovators brings forward bold ideas, addresses local priorities, and helps shape an even stronger future for our city.”

Students are asked to submit a two-to three-minute video outlining an innovative project that improves quality of life for Kingston residents or introduces new approaches to delivering municipal services.

Teams with proposals that are shortlisted will be invited to present their ideas at the Pitch Competition on March 20 at City Hall to a panel of leaders with expertise in municipal government, entrepreneurship and innovation.

Key dates

• Interested participants can register for the following workshop:
  • Tuesday, Feb. 10: from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Mitchell Hall Event Commons, 69 Union St.
  • You can also join online by registering on Zoom
• Friday, March 6: Deadline for proposals at 11:59 p.m.
• Monday, March 9: Shortlisted teams are invited to the pitch competition.
• Friday, March 20: Student pitch competition at City Hall.

Don’t miss your chance to help shape the future of Kingston—apply now and turn your bright idea into reality! Learn more about the Mayor’s Innovation Challenge on Get Involved Kingston or by emailing mic@CityofKingston.ca.