Explore social innovation
Discover global unmet needs in human, animal, and planetary health.
Applications are currently closed. Sign up to receive updates for our next cohort.
Global entrepreneurship
Through partnership with the University of Waterloo, we're helping students, faculty and recent grads explore purpose-driven entreprenuership.
Our goal is to equip you with the skills and resources needed to identify and solve critical issues in both rural Canadian and global communities.
Global Impact Creator program
Enhance your entrepreneurial skills
Through the AC’s structured methodology, you will embark on a journey to:
Research Unmet Needs: Dive deep into the challenges faced by communities and identify areas where impactful solutions are needed.- Develop and Pilot Solutions: Use your research insights to create innovative solutions, then test and refine them in real-world settings.
- Engage with Experts: Gain insights and mentorship from industry experts and seasoned entrepreneurs who will guide you throughout the program.
- Showcase Your Work: Present your learnings at our culminating showcase event, hosted at the AC, where you will have the opportunity to share your progress and impact with a broader audience.
How it works
Research, develop, and pilot solutions
This program focuses on exploring unmet needs in the critical areas of human, planetary, and animal health and developing innovative solutions that have the potential to make global impact.
While enrolled in the program, participants will have access to:
- Real-World Impact: Make a tangible difference in communities by addressing critical issues and providing sustainable solutions.
- Funding Support: A $12,000 stipend to support you as you identify an unmet need and explore potential solutions.
- Skill Development: Enhance your entrepreneurial skills, from ideation to execution, with hands-on experience and expert guidance.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals, industry leaders, and potential investors who share your passion for global impact.
Eligibility
Join us in making a difference
The Global Impact Creator program is open to the following University of Waterloo community members:
- Faculty members
- Staff
- Senior-level undergraduate students through the e-coop program
- Graduate-level students with permission from their program/supervisor
- Recent graduates (within 2 years)
A collaborative program
The Global Impact Creator program is run in collaboration with the University of Waterloo
Ac help center
Frequently asked questions
1. What is the global impact creator program?
The Global Impact Creator program is a cohort‑based entrepreneurship program designed for innovators focused on human, planetary, or animal health. It blends hands‑on mentorship, peer learning, hybrid workshops, and asynchronous content to help you ideate, test, and validate your business case.
2. Who runs and funds the Global Impact Creator program?
The AC with funding from the University of Waterloo.
3. Where does the program run?
Hybrid. Most workshops take place in person at the Accelerator Centre while 1:1 mentorship is virtual unless otherwise arranged.
4. How long is the program?
The Global Impact Creator program runs for six months.
5. What does the GIC Program provide me with?
- Mentorship – up to three hours/month of 1:1 advisory with experienced mentors
- Workshops and events – six hybrid workshops, two in‑person peer lunches, one community event, a program kick‑off, and a final demo day
- Asynchronous learning – access to the AC’s software and world-class program curriculum
- Funding support – a $12,000 stipend to support you
6. What funding do participants receive?
- CAD $12,000 stipend (non‑repayable) — guaranteed for each selected participant;
- Up to CAD $3,000 travel reimbursement with eligible receipts;
- Up to CAD $500 prototyping reimbursement with valid receipts.
7. Who can apply?
The Global Impact creator program is open to the University of Waterloo’s faculty and staff, senior‑level undergraduate students, graduate students (with program/supervisor permission), and recent graduates (within 2 years).
8. What makes a strong candidate?
A passion for impact in human, planetary, or animal health; openness to learn; relevant experience or education; use of scientific testing for market validation; and commitment to attend hybrid workshops and in-person meetings.
9. What is the selection process?
Applications will be reviewed within two weeks after the application window closes. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to one or two rounds of interviews. Final selection decisions will be communicated by email.
10. How many participants will be selected?
One cohort contains up to 8 participants.
11. Is attendance required?
Yes. Attendance at all sessions is critical to the learning cycle.
12. Who are the mentors and partners?
You’ll engage with AC mentors. The University of Waterloo is a core funding and marketing partner, so alumni and guest speakers may join key events.
13. Are there sponsorship opportunities?
Yes. Select events such as the kickoff, peer networking lunches, and demo day may involve external sponsors.
Applications Currently Closed
Thank you for your interest in our program.
Applications for Global Impact Creator Program are now closed. Leave us your contact details and we will let you know when applications open.