Accelerating Innovation Across Manitoba

IDEA START Innovate is a transformative digital platform developed by the University of Manitoba’s IDEA START initiative. Designed to serve as the Innovation Ecosystem Management System (IEMS) for Manitoba, this cloud-based infrastructure connects and empowers stakeholders across the province’s entrepreneurial and innovation landscape.
 

From students and faculty to startup founders, industry partners, and government bodies, IDEA START Innovate is the digital backbone that drives collaboration, streamlines programming, and accelerates the growth of startups and innovative ventures.

IDEA START Innovate is more than a platform. It’s a catalyst for transformation. By connecting people, programs, and possibilities, it empowers Manitoba’s innovation ecosystem to thrive. Whether you're a student, founder, mentor, investor, or policymaker, IDEA START Innovate is your gateway to building a better Manitoba and a better world.

For Partners IDEA START Venture & Innovation Community
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IDEA START Innovate

Why IDEA START Innovate?

Manitoba’s startup ecosystem is full of potential but it needs a unified, efficient system to thrive. IDEA START Innovate is built to:

  • Digitally connect the entire Manitoba startup ecosystem.
  • Provide centralized monitoring, management, and analysis tools.
  • Offer dedicated sub-systems for incubators, accelerators, mentors, funders, and more.
  • Serve as a single source of support for founders and innovators.

Vision behind IDEA START Innovate

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Innovation is not a destination but a journey of discovery. IDEA START Innovate provides the pathways and partnerships that make that journey possible.
Dr. Hans-Joachim Wieden Associate Vice President, Partnerships, Knowledge Mobilization and Innovation

IDEA START Innovate at the University of Manitoba was developed under the leadership of Dr. Hans-Joachim Wieden, Associate Vice-President – Partnerships, Knowledge Mobilization and Innovation. The platform is designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurship by connecting innovators across campus and beyond. With a focus on unifying Manitoba's startup ecosystem, IDEA START Innovate provides centralized tools for managing incubation, mentorship, funding, and market engagement, helping to turn ideas into real-world impact.

Every milestone in the creation of IDEA START Innovate involved initiating dialogue with innovators and partners across campus, aligning with the university’s strategic goals. IDEA START's commitment to building an inclusive and thriving innovation ecosystem directly inspired the platform’s focus on connecting physical hubs, streamlining resources, and supporting entrepreneurial learning, mentorship, and real-world impact.​

IDEA START Innovate seeks to achieve success through strong leadership and collaborative action. It's our belief that every idea at the University of Manitoba can help shape a brighter future for Manitoba and beyond.

Core Features & Modules

IDEA START Innovate includes a suite of powerful modules to support every stage of the innovation journey:

  • Application tracking System
  • Incubation & Mentorship Management
  • Investor & Funding Relations
  • Market Access & Industry Engagement
  • Startup Toolkit & Learning Management System (LMS)
  • Community & Events Management

Strategic Goals & Outcomes

IDEA START Innovate is aligned with IDEA START's mission to make UM a Top 50 Global Innovative University. Key outcomes include:

  • Launching 5-10 startups annually in tech, agriculture, health sciences and more.
  • Developing 10-15 new prototypes and proof-of-concepts each year.
  • Driving economic growth and diversification across Manitoba and Western Canada.
  • Supporting Indigenous, rural and northern communities through inclusive innovation.

Integration with Innovation Hubs Network

The platform is central to the IDEA START Innovation Hubs Network, connecting physical hubs across UM faculties. It enables:

  • Seamless administration and resource sharing.
  • Efficient tracking of activities, mentorships, and events.
  • Community engagement through Hub Associates.
  • Cross-faculty collaboration and idea nurturing.
  • Linkage to the IDEA START Venture and Innovation Community (I-VIC).

Supporting UM's Strategic Vision

IDEA START Innovate directly supports the University of Manitoba’s MOMENTUM 2024–2029 strategic plan: 

  • Creating Knowledge That Matters: Tracks and supports disruptive innovations and social impact ideas.
  • Empowering Learners: Fosters entrepreneurial mindset and experiential learning.
  • Reimagining Engagement: Builds regional economic development, strengthens external partnerships, and promotes inclusive innovation.