Access to Funding

Turning ideas into reality requires resources. IDEA START guides you through Manitoba's entrepreneurial funding landscape, connecting you with grants, competitions, awards, and investment opportunities available to University of Manitoba innovators.

From seed funding and pitch competitions to government grants and investor networks, we help you identify and access the financial support that aligns with your venture's stage and goals. Our team provides guidance on application processes, pitch preparation, and funding strategy, ensuring you're well-positioned to secure the resources needed to grow your impact and achieve your entrepreneurial ambitions.

Funding Opportunities at UM

Falling Walls Lab Manitoba

Falling Walls Lab is a fast-paced pitch competition where emerging innovators present their groundbreaking research or idea in just 3 minutes. Hosted globally and locally, it's your chance to connect with experts, inspire change, and join a global network of changemakers. The winner from Manitoba will advance to the international finale in Berlin, Germany during the Falling Walls Science Summit (Nov 2026).

Stu Clark New Venture Championships

The Stu Clark New Venture Championships is a premier business plan competition for student entrepreneurs across the globe. Compete for over $72,000 in cash prizes, connect with industry leaders, and pitch your big idea on April 30 - May 2, 2026 hosted at the Fairmont Hotel in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Science 3K Pitch Competition

The Science 3K Pitch Competition is an opportunity for students in the Faculty of Science to pitch their innovative ideas to researchers and industry experts, and compete for $3,000. Join us on April 10 from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at Marshall McLuhan Hall to hear brilliant ideas, witness a community form around innovation, and see the competition up close!

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tem and yen 7 hour pitch competition poster

7-Hour Innovation Pitch Competition

Join us for an interdisciplinary low-stakes pitch competition, focused on connecting students from different disciplines, namely science, engineering, business, and agriculture. The goal of this event is to connect students and recent graduates who have not met previously to work together and create a 90-second pitch on a new business idea focusing around solving problems. All for a chance to win a $300 grand prize! This year, the event will include networking and mentorship from business and bioscience organizations.

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