On this page: Competition Benefits | How It Works | Frequently Asked Questions |
This competition encourages McGill students, working in teams, to propose new technologically-based ideas/solutions that solve real world problems. The latest edition took place on January 29th, 2026 during the John D. Thompson Entrepreneurial Development Seminar. Five teams were selected to compete, each team had 3 minutes to present their TechIdea pitch to a panel of judges from the business and entrepreneurial community. Judges had 3 minutes to ask questions and give feedback.
Competition Benefits
Cash Prizes - $500, $250, $100 and a bonus $50 audience favorite
Increase your entrepreneurial skills
1:1 pitch training
from experienced coaches
Networking opportunities once the pitches conclude
Feedback from successful entrepreneurs and business leaders
Develop your pitch and presentation skills
How It Works
- Students submit their TechIdea.
- Up to 5 top ideas are selected and coaching is provided to help them develop their pitch
- Finalists pitched their idea during the 13th annual John D. Thompson Entrepreneurial Development Seminar on January 29th, 2026
- Top 3 pitches win cash prizes of $500, $250 and $100 plus a bonus $50 prize for audience favourite
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the eligibility?
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Team
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Open to any McGill University student team comprised of 2 to 4 members
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At least one team member is a currently enrolled student, undergraduate or graduate, in a faculty that is STEM-related at McGill University.
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TechIdea
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If you have already developed your solution and are beyond the idea stage (e.g. already have sales/customer transactions or have raised company funding from sources other than friends and family), then you are not eligible.
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How do I apply?
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The next TechIdea Pitch Competition will be held in January 2027. A call for TechIdeas will be put out November 2026 and TechIdeas are submitted through an online form.
When is the competition taking place?
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The competition will be held during the annual John D. Thompson Entrepreneurial Development Seminar in January. The next competition will be in January 2027.
What is a technologically based idea?
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It's a service or product that relates to or involves technology, in other words, the application of scientific or engineering knowledge for practical purposes.
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There are so many possibilities! A TechIdea could be a new formulation, a novel material, a solution or service or product – anything that involves technology (including but not limited to information technology).
Past TechIdeas include consumer products, animal care solutions, environmental monitoring, healthcare communication, energy storage, mental health support, eco packaging, dental care, travel optimization and student engagement. Check out our previous TechIdea competing teams!
How are submissions evaluated?
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Degree of environmental, economic and social impact
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Degree of innovation and feasibility
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Understanding of competitive landscape
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Technical and business challenges clearly identified
How many teams are selected to pitch?
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Up to 5 teams are selected to participate in the competition.
Is there a prize?
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The top 3 pitches win cash prizes of $500, $250 and $100 plus a bonus $50 prize for audience favourite.
Is pitch coaching available?
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Yes
