Get ready to celebrate ideas that make a difference. On December 1, the Rideau Hall Foundation will kick off the fifth year of Ingenious+, the national youth innovation challenge that supports young Canadians aged 14-18 who are turning ideas into action.

Every year, Ingenious+ shines a spotlight on youth who see a problem and decide to do something about it. Awards range from $1,000 to up to $10,000, along with mentorship and learning opportunities to help bring their innovations to life. These young innovators remind us that big change often starts with just an idea, and the courage to take the next step.

Join the Celebration!

This year’s program launches with two live virtual events in partnership with Exploring by the Seat of Your Pants, inviting classrooms, educators, and youth to tune in and be inspired. Past Ingenious+ winners will share their stories, challenges, and advice for the next generation and inspire youth from across the country to dream big and apply this year.

🌟 English Launch Event. December 1, 2025 – 12:00 p.m. (ET)
🔗 Watch live.

Hear from three Ingenious+ National Winners who are using technology and creativity to make life better for others: Natalie Mitchell, Anthony Efthimiadis, Joti Gokaraju

🌟 French Launch Event. December 1, 2025 – 2:00 p.m. (ET)
🔗 Watch live.

Meet two Ingenious+ National Winners whose ideas are creating positive change in their communities: Yasmine Ben Arous, Céline Zhang

What Is Ingenious+?

Ingenious+ is Canada’s youth innovation challenge. Open to youth aged 14-18, the program offers $1,000 regional awards to up to 300 youth across Canada. Regional awardees can then advance to the national stage for the chance to win one of five $10,000 awards and be celebrated during Canadian Innovation Week 2026. Along with funding, participants also receive mentorship and learning opportunities to help bring their innovations to life.

Ingenious+ encourages applications from all youth. Innovation comes from lived experience – anyone can have the next great idea!

What we’re looking for:

Innovations that make life better, locally or globally, in one of these five themes: 

  • Climate Change & Environment: Create ideas that protect the planet and promote sustainability. 
  • Health & Well-Being: Improve mental or physical health and support wellness in your community. 
  • Equity & Inclusion: Remove barriers, celebrate diversity, and build inclusive spaces for all. 
  • Community & Civic Engagement: Lead local projects that bring people together and strengthen civic life. 
  • Technology & Entrepreneurship: Use creativity, business, or tech to solve real-world problems.

Since its launch, Ingenious+ has invested over $800,000 in young innovators, recognizing 18 national winners, 20 national finalists, and 283 regional winners. More than 6,500 youth have engaged through workshops and mentorship, gaining skills in problem-solving, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

Encourage the young changemakers in your life to apply, because Canada’s future starts with the ideas of today’s youth. Applications run from December 1, 2025 – January 23, 2026. Learn more