What is the Future Innovators Hackathon ?
The Future Innovators Hackathon is a one-day competition hosted by the Bioloop Foundation, designed to bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds and skill levels to create impactful solutions for Metro Vancouver’s updated solid waste management plan. Our hackathon is focused on three of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- Affordable and Clean Energy
- Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Responsible Production and Consumption
Participants will work in teams to tackle real-world challenges, brainstorm innovative ideas, and develop projects that contribute toward building sustainable, inclusive, and resilient communities. This event is your chance to turn ideas into action and make a lasting impact!
Why Participate?
Work on Real-World Challenges
Help shape the future of waste management in Metro Vancouver and make a difference for the environment and the community.
Collaborate and Network
Meet and work alongside like-minded innovators, mentors, and industry experts who share your passion for sustainability and innovation.
Skill Development
Access interactive workshops, panel discussions, and receive mentorship to refine your ideas and develop practical solutions.
Recognition
Every participant will gain new skills, experience, and recognition for their efforts.
Key Features of the Event:
Workshops and Panel Discussions
Our workshops will dive into key topics like clean energy solutions, sustainable urban planning, and circular economy practices. These sessions will provide valuable insights into how we can create resilient cities while addressing climate change.
Through open panel discussions, participants will have the opportunity to connect with sustainability experts, industry leaders, and Indigenous knowledge holders, fostering meaningful conversations on creating more equitable and sustainable communities.
Mentorship
Throughout the hackathon, participants will have access to experienced mentors from the fields of sustainability, technology, and entrepreneurship. These mentors will provide guidance, feedback, and help shape your project ideas before the final presentations.
Focus on Indigenous Knowledge
Incorporating Indigenous perspectives is key to addressing climate change and promoting sustainability. Our hackathon will integrate traditional Indigenous knowledge and practices to foster more effective solutions that honor cultural heritage while contributing to a circular economy.
Event Details
Dates:
December 7th, 2024
Time:
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location:
515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC
Who Can Participate: open to youth aged 15 to 30 who self-identify as Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, 2SLGBTQIA+, or individuals with long-term, intermittent, or recurring disabilities.
We are committed to creating a welcoming space where diverse voices come together to develop innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
Team Formation:
Don’t have a team? No problem! We’ll help match you with others based on your interests and skills.
Recognition
The winning team will receive:
Honorable Mentions:
Recognition for creativity, impact, and sustainability.
Networking Opportunities:
Access to ongoing Bioloop Foundation events and potential collaborations with industry partners.
All participants will receive certificates and have the chance to showcase their work to a network of sustainability advocates and potential collaborators.
The Challenge
Teams will be tasked with pitching projects or ideas that are accessible to all, contribute toward gender equality, and support the local community’s transition to a circular economy. Projects should aim to integrate affordable and clean energy solutions, sustainable urban planning, and responsible consumption practices. Additionally, teams should consider how their solutions can advance Indigenous reconciliation and respect traditional environmental knowledge.
By the end of the hackathon, each team will present their final projects to a panel of expert judges, with feedback provided before selecting the winners.
Agenda:
8:00 AM – 8:30 AM:
Registration & Welcome
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM:
Land Acknowledgement and Indigenous Perspective
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM:
Metro Vancouver Solid Waste Management Plan Update
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM:
Breaking Barriers: Inclusive Design for Solid Waste Management
How can we ensure that solid waste management programs and services are designed for everyone? This workshop focuses on creating inclusive and accessible solid waste systems, considering how they can better serve diverse needs and be adaptable to different community contexts. Through brainstorming sessions and collaborative activities, participants will identify current limitations in solid waste management and explore creative solutions that make participation easy and accessible for all. Guided by examples of innovative practices, we’ll dive into the principles of inclusive design and empower participants to contribute to a future where solid waste management systems promote equity and resilience.
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM:
Morning Break
11:00 AM – 12:00 AM:
Envisioning Tomorrow: Building Inclusive Solid Waste Management Systems
In this interactive workshop, participants will work together to design a vision for a solid waste management system that serves all members of the community, regardless of background, ability, or location. Through individual reflection, small group discussions, and collaborative mapping, participants will explore key features of an ideal solid waste system that is accessible, sustainable, and inclusive. Together, we’ll identify common barriers in today’s systems and brainstorm ways to address these challenges, incorporating ideas such as community drop-off points, smart technology, and local recycling initiatives. Join us to reimagine solid waste management infrastructure as a solution that strengthens our communities and protects our environment.
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM:
Lunch & Networking
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM:
Project Development & Mentorship
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM:
Finalize Projects & Pitch Preparation
3:30 PM – 4:00 PM:
Afternoon Break
4:00 PM – 5:30 PM:
Team Presentations & Judging
5:30 PM – 6:00 PM:
Closing Ceremony & Recognitions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Who Can Participate?
The Future Innovators Hackathon is an inclusive event, open to youth aged 15 to 30 who self-identify as Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, 2SLGBTQIA+, or individuals with long-term, intermittent, or recurring disabilities. We are committed to creating a welcoming space where diverse voices come together to develop innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
How do I form a team?
We’ll help you connect with other participants to form a team.
What do I need to bring?
Bring your ideas, creativity, and energy! In-person attendees should bring laptops, chargers, and anything else needed to build your project.
What is the cost of registration?
The event is free to attend.
Ready to make an impact? Don’t miss your chance to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future. Register now and be part of the solution!
Future Innovators Hackathon
Powered by the incredible support of our sponsors and partners, whose commitment to sustainability and innovation drives our mission forward. We are grateful to each organization and individual who has contributed resources, expertise, and enthusiasm to help make this event possible.
Our Sponsors
Thank you to our sponsors for your generous contributions, which have enabled us to create an inspiring and empowering space for young changemakers. Your dedication to supporting sustainable innovation is invaluable, and we are honored to have you with us on this journey toward a brighter, more sustainable future.
Community & Industry Partners
We also extend our gratitude to our community and industry partners for your time, mentorship, and expertise. Your collaboration enriches the hackathon experience, providing participants with essential guidance as they transform ideas into solutions. Together, we are building a community committed to progress in sustainable development.
Special Thanks
To our dedicated mentors, volunteers, and supporters—thank you for inspiring our participants and contributing to the event’s success. Your commitment to nurturing future leaders in sustainability and environmental stewardship makes a lasting impact on our communities.
Together, we’re creating meaningful change.
Future Innovators Hackathon is powered by the incredible support of our sponsors
