Enactus Acadia University has been awarded Best Project for the 2026 Capital Power Powering Change by Changing Power Project Accelerator. Their project, Carbon Roots, takes an innovative approach by converting food waste from local markets and dining halls into biochar, a substance used to enhance soil fertility. Through this venture, they’re reducing landfill emissions and supporting sustainable farming. The team received $3,000 in funding to help scale their project.
“What continues to inspire me about Enactus is the way these student leaders think beyond today’s challenges to the world they want to shape tomorrow. Their ideas reflect a deep sense of responsibility, innovation and purpose – qualities that will define the next generation of global leaders and drive lasting impact for communities and the planet. Congratulations to the Acadia University and University of British Columbia – Vancouver teams for this achievement!” said Avik Dey, Enactus alumnus and President & CEO of Capital Power.
This project accelerator enables Enactus teams to drive change through projects centered on climate action, environmental innovation, and community resilience through sustainable, lower-carbon ventures.
This year, six projects received $2,500 grants through the accelerator, culminating in a virtual final round of competition on April 15. Teams presented their projects to a panel of volunteer judges from the Capital Power team, where two standout projects received a total of $5,000 in additional funding to further scale their impact.
In addition to Acadia University, the University of British Columbia – Vancouver was named Runner-Up for Terra, a project that upcycles food waste into nutrient-rich soil to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainable local food systems.
Learn more about the Project Accelerator program and other award winners from our National Exposition.
