The Portage Innovation Centre (PIC) is set to host an exciting Entrepreneur Challenge, providing a platform for young innovators and entrepreneurs to showcase their business acumen and creativity. Set to kick off on February 15, 2024,  the challenge will see 28 students from Portage Collegiate Institute participating in a series of activities aimed at nurturing their entrepreneurial spirit.

The Entrepreneur Challenge is designed to offer students a comprehensive experience, encompassing rapid idea generation, design thinking, and the development of business plans. 

Following the kick-off event, students will have the opportunity to work on their ideas, with the PIC’s committee arranging for mentors to guide them through the process. The culmination of the challenge will be the students’ business pitches on February 23, where a panel of judges will evaluate the presentations and award the top three teams a prize of $100 each.

Building on the momentum of last year’s ‘Innovate to Launch’ event, where young talents transformed their initial ideas into winning business pitches and walked away with prizes and one-year rent-free space in PIC, we are focusing this year’s competition to empowering high school students. Their journey from ideation to pitch stage is a testament to the possibilities that unfold within PIC’s supportive environment.

The PIC, a partnership project between Communities Building Youth Futures and the Red River College Polytech – Portage Campus, has been a beacon of innovation and entrepreneurship since its launch in the fall of 2022. The centre offers a dynamic space for young entrepreneurs to bring their ideas to life. Equipped with a reception and meeting area, offices, and a fabrication lab, the PIC is a vibrant hub for fostering creativity and innovation.

The Entrepreneur Challenge at the Portage Innovation Centre (PIC) demonstrates the center’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of business leaders and fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. By providing a supportive environment and valuable resources, the PIC aims to inspire and empower young entrepreneurs, contributing to the growth and vibrancy of the local business community. This upcoming challenge is poised to be a transformative experience for all participants, showcasing the PIC’s dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive ecosystem for budding entrepreneurs.