Future Innovators Hackathon
Connect I Create I Transform
What is the Future Innovators Hackathon ?
The Future Innovators Hackathon is a two-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.
Prizes and Recognition
The top team will be awarded exciting prizes, and 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 and 8th, 2024
Time:
[Day 1: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM] [Day 2: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM]
Location:
Harbour Center Campus at Simon Fraser University
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:
Day 1
8:00 AM – Registration and Opening Remarks
8:30 AM – Team Formation and Idea Brainstorming
9:30 AM – Rethinking and Preventing Waste in the Metro Vancouver Region
10:30 AM – Morning Break
11:00 AM – Workshops – Part 1
1:00 PM – Lunch Break
2:00 PM – Project Development – Part 1
3:00 PM – Progress Check and Mentor Feedback
4:00 PM – Afternoon Break
4:30 PM – Team Collaboration and Networking
5:30 PM – Closing Remarks
Day 2
8:00 AM – Team Check-in
9:00 AM – Workshop Series – Part 2
10:30 AM – Morning Break
11:00 AM – Project Development – Part 2
1:00 PM – Lunch Break
2:00 PM – Project Refinement and Rehearsal
3:00 PM – Final Presentations and Judging
5:00 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!