Program and Competition Requirements

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National Competition

We are excited to be in Montreal from May 6 to 8, 2026. Our three-day event will bring teams from across Canada to the Palais des congrès de Montréal.

Information and Competition Requirements for the 2026 Enactus Canada National Competition will be posted in early 2026.

Each competing team is required to schedule an Impact and Financial Reporting Review week with their Program Manager and submit the following reports in order to compete.

Annual Report

Every competing team must produce an annual report summarizing their projects, highlighting the impact made from April 13, 2025 – April 12, 2026, This mandatory document will be shared with judges during your 3-minute setup period. Your annual report should detail project descriptions, target beneficiaries, and actual impacts achieved.

Each team’s Annual Report must be typed in a legible font size and should provide an overview of the team’s efforts, results and achievements. It may also include information on future plans for growth and expansion.

Annual Reports are limited to the dimensions noted below, but can be bound or folded in any manner:

Four single sheets of 8 1⁄2” x 11” or A4 size paper with print only on one side of each sheet.
Two single sheets of 8 1⁄2” x 11” or A4 size paper with print on both sides of each sheet.

Please Note: Using one of the dimensions above but cutting the paper in a manner which causes a change in the size is NOT permitted.

Important points regarding the annual report: NEW THIS YEAR: To support consistency across teams and improve clarity for judges, all Enactus teams are now required to dedicate one page of their four-page Annual Report to standardized impact reporting. This page provides a concise, structured overview of all project impacts (including those not presented) using common definitions and categories. Click here for details on the standardized impact reporting page.
Enactus Canada requires the legal structure and ownership of all projects mentioned during a competition to be disclosed on the team’s annual report if the project is not entirely owned and controlled by the team. For example, if the project is legally registered under a student’s name, that fact must be disclosed.
No QR codes to bypass the page limits.
If a team uses a cover or back page, it will count as one of the above pages.
Teams should not use folders, report covers, etc. in conjunction with their Annual Reports.
Only numbers in the final report may be presented.
All information included in your report must match the records on the Registration & Reporting Platform.
Annual Reports are distributed to every judge during the setup period. Teams will be notified in advance of the number of Annual Reports they are required to bring to the National Exposition.
One (1) copy of your Annual Report must be handed in at the registration desk upon arrival at the Enactus Canada Exposition. A digital copy of the report must be emailed to your Program Manager and approved prior to the event.
Failure to comply with the guidelines above will result in the Enactus team’s disqualification.
Annual Reports are distributed to every judge during the setup period.
You will be notified by your Program Manager regarding the number of copies you will need to print prior to the event.

Project Verification Form

Every team must request that their Faculty Advisor, Student Leader and one administrator (e.g. dean, department chair, or institution president) review their Annual Report and sign the Project Verification Form.

If a team’s Faculty Advisor is also an administrator, the form must be signed by another administrator.
The Project Verification Form serves as just one part of an internal audit of projects and activities at all levels of competition.
You can find the most up-to-date project verification form here.

Live Presentation Structure

Each competing team will have a 20-minute time block for their live presentation. The League Coordinator will keep the official time. After the League Coordinator has formally introduced the team, the time will be precisely divided as outlined below.

3 minutes – Set-up Period
The team will have a maximum of three (3) minutes to distribute the Annual Reports to the judges and set up presentation equipment (e.g., start computers, power up projectors, check sound).
Document Distribution: Only the Annual Report may be distributed to the judges during this period. No additional materials (e.g., products, samples) are allowed.
Display Restrictions: Once the team has tested the equipment, only a black screen can be shown. That means no images, text, project OR Enactus logos are allowed to be displayed. No music or sound effects are allowed for the rest of the set-up period.
12 minutes – Live Presentation
The team will have a maximum of twelve (12) minutes to deliver their live audio/visual presentation.
If your presentation is less than 12 minutes, the remaining time will NOT be carried over to your Question-and-Answer period.
NOTE: Exceeding this limit will result in being cut off.
5 minutes – Judges’ Question & Answer Period
There will be a mandatory five (5) minute Question and Answer period for the judges. Aligned with the Enactus World Cup, the Question-and-Answer period remains strictly enforced at five (5) minutes; any unused presentation time WILL NOT be added.
Presentation Restrictions: Once the team has finished their presentation, only a black screen can be shown. That means no images, text, project OR Enactus logos are allowed to be displayed. No music or sound effects are allowed during the Judges’
Question and Answer period.
Extended Time for French Interpretation: The Question-and-Answer period will be doubled to ten (10) minutes if the team requires a French interpreter.

Judging Criterion

National Competition Judging Criteria | Printable Version

Further details on the National Competition, live presentations, and competition policies can be found in the Enactus Canada Team Manual on our Team Resources page.

National Exposition FAQ

Impact Challenges

The Canadian Tire Environmental Sustainability Challenge is designed to empower Enactus teams to identify, create and deliver projects that tackle climate change through the concept of circularity while teaching and empowering others to do the same.

Requirements:

The Desjardins Community Empowerment Challenge is designed to equip Enactus teams with the resources needed to develop innovative, high-impact projects that address the evolving needs and opportunities within communities. This may include, but is not limited to, youth, newcomers, seniors, etc.

Requirements:

The Innovation and Impact Challenge, powered by Enactus Alumni empowers Enactus teams to identify, create and deliver projects that address real-world problems.

Requirements:

The TD Entrepreneurship Challenge empowers Enactus teams to identify, create and deliver projects that teach relevant entrepreneurship skills, empowering aspiring and existing entrepreneurs.

Requirements:

Challenge Report & Project Verification Form

What are Challenge Reports and what is the format?

The Challenge Report is the written document that judges will review during your 3-minute setup period. You must use the templates provided to complete the reports: Canadian Tire Environmental Sustainability Challenge; Desjardins Community Empowerment Challenge; Innovation & Impact Challenge; TD Entrepreneurship Challenge.

Please keep the following in mind when preparing your report:

The Impact Metrics reporting period is between February 23, 2025 to February 22, 2026
Do not change the size of the provided boxes, margins, or orientation of the template
Do not delete metrics that are on the template
Do not use QR codes to bypass the page limit
Do add additional metrics to the ‘Impact” box, but ensure that the document does not exceed one page (8.5 x 11).
Do use any font and add anything under the Project Overview (images, logos, etc.)

You must bring at least 14 printed copies of your Challenge Report for judges for every competition in which you are competing.

1 copy per challenge submitted at Registration (used to check your team in)
1 copy per challenge for your league coordinator (prior to your presentation)
12 copies for judges

Will there be somewhere to print our Challenge Reports?

Printing services from Enactus Canada are not available at Regionals. We strongly advise that you print them prior to the event. If you cannot print them prior, you may be able to find places to print nearby (but this is not advised).

How and when do I submit my Challenge Reports and Project Verification Form (PVF)?

Every team must request that their Faculty Advisor, Student Leader, and one administrator (e.g. dean, department chair, or institution president) review their Challenge Report(s) and sign the Project Verification Form.
If a team’s Faculty Advisor is also an administrator, the form must be signed by another administrator.
The Project Verification Form serves as just one part of an internal audit of projects and activities at all levels of competition.
Both Challenge Reports and PVFs are due online in CACTUS earlier than in previous years (see dates below):
- Atlantic Canada: February 22 at 11:59 pm EST
- Central Canada: March 6 at 11:59 pm EST
- Western Canada: March 6 at 11:59 pm EST

Note: The PVF is signed by your Student Leader, Faculty Advisor, and school administrator and submitted through the CACTUS platform by your student leader. Teams that do not submit their Challenge Reports and Project Verification Form by the deadline will not be eligible to compete at Regionals.

Do the presenters have to hand out the Challenge Reports to judges?

No, you can have anyone from your team hand out the Challenge Reports to the judges during the 3-minute set-up period.

Presentations

Do we need to submit our presentation before the event?

No, there is no requirement to submit your presentation before the event.
NEW THIS YEAR! You must book a meeting with your Enactus Canada Program Manager before the event to go over your team’s reports, scripts and presentations.

How long are presentations at Regionals?

3-minute setup, 5-minute presentation, 4-minute Q&A.
There will also be a 5-minute tech check the morning of Day 2 for all competing teams. Your tech check time will be provided at the Opening Ceremony.
Note: If your presentation is less than 5 minutes in length, unused time will NOT be added to your Q&A time.

Do the presenters have to hand out the Challenge Reports to judges?

No, you can have anyone from your team hand out the Challenge Reports to the judges during the 3-minute set-up period.

Can we talk to the judges during the 3-minute tech set-up period?

The purpose of this time is for you to:

Distribute your challenge report to the judges
Ensure that your presentation file works
Check the audio is clear and that you can project your voice in the room

You should not be speaking with the judges as they will be using this time to review your challenge report. We recommend handing out your challenge reports, completing your tech check, and then standing in your presentation spots for the remainder of the setup period.

When you are testing your voice projections, you are not allowed to talk about your projects. Once your tech is all set up, only the Impact Challenge hold slides may be displayed. No other images, text, or logos are allowed to be displayed with no music or sound effects for the rest of the set-up period.

Hold slide download links, note there are two different file options for you to use:

Canadian Tire Environmental Sustainability Challenge: PowerPoint | Image (.png)
Desjardins Community Empowerment Challenge: PowerPoint | Image (.png)
Innovation & Impact Challenge: PowerPoint | Image (.png)
TD Entrepreneurship Challenge: PowerPoint | Image (.png)

Can we share content warnings and Land Acknowledgements?

Content warnings and land acknowledgements will have an updated format for the 2025-2026 year and must be approved by Enactus Canada, announced closer to Regionals.

Can we bring items or prototypes to our presentation?

Yes, it is highly encouraged to bring your prototypes or products. Judges are not permitted to receive, touch, smell, taste any products. As well, you are not permitted to display any additional materials that contain detailed content about your project. For example, if you are making environmentally friendly candles, you can showcase the candles to the judges, but you cannot bring a poster explaining how the candles are made.

Please note that no additional tables will be provided by Enactus Canada for the purposes of demonstrations.

How many presenters can we have?

The maximum is 5 presenters, however, we recommend having no more than 2-3 as the presentations are only 5 minutes long.
There will only be space for two tech team members at the tech table.

Can presenters use cue cards?

Yes, presenters can use cue cards during presentations, but it is crucial to consider both the advantages and disadvantages. These cards should ideally include key points or prompts rather than scripted content.

The advantages of cue cards include aiding presenters in maintaining a smooth flow, reducing the risk of forgetting crucial information, and providing visual support. The downside is a risk of dependence on written materials, the potential for distraction if cue cards are overly detailed, and the need to adhere to time constraints during presentations. The goal is to leverage cue cards effectively to enhance the presentation without detracting from the overall quality of delivery.

Can you have additional team members answer questions during the Q&A period?

Yes, you can have additional Enactus team members (students) standing with the presenters to help answer questions. NEW THIS YEAR! A maximum of 5 team members total on stage at any point, including both presenters and anyone participating in the Q&A.

Can teams watch other presentations?

Yes, you are encouraged to watch other teams’ presentations, but each presentation room has a limited capacity. Seats are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. A limited number of seats are reserved for the competing team in each presentation room. Once your team’s presentation and Q&A are complete, you must vacate the reserved seating so it can be used by the next competing team.

Note: Seating capacity will vary depending on the region and the presentation room.

Technology & Equipment

What equipment do we need to bring for our presentation?

Projector
Cables for the projector/laptop (HDMI, etc.)
Laptop(s)
- If you are presenting from a MacBook, it is recommend to bring a Windows laptop as a backup.
USB/Hard Drive with the presentation saved as a backup.
Speaker (optional)

Please note: Enactus Canada will provide a power bar, a table with two chairs, and a projector screen.

Will microphones be provided during the presentation and Q&A?

No, microphones are not provided.

Can we share a projector with another team?

We would not recommend relying on one projector shared between two teams. There will be multiple Challenges and leagues with presentations occurring at the same time. You will not find out your league or presentation time until the Opening Ceremony.

Can we bring our own timer?

Yes, if it does not disturb the judges and our own timer. Alternatively, you can use your Faculty Advisor or other team members to keep track of the time. You can use different sheets as signals to go faster or slower, or as a time warning.

Event Logistics & Attendance

Can we bring a VP to the Student Leader and Final Reporting Workshop?

The Student Leader meeting is primarily for current and incoming Presidents; however, if that individual cannot attend, please send another team member, such as a VP, in their place. Anyone involved with compiling project metrics and submitting information on the CACTUS platform can attend the Final Reporting Workshop (Project Managers, VP of HR, etc.). Due to space constraints, this meeting will be limited to a maximum of 2 individuals per Enactus team.

When will leagues/presentation time and tech checks be announced?

They will be announced during the Opening Ceremony and then shared via social media after the ceremony.

The registration deadline has passed, but one of our team members forgot to register. Can they still attend?

They may be able to register in person pending available space. Please contact your program manager.

What is the dress code for the event?

On the day of the Opening Ceremony, team gear (Enactus t-shirts/sweaters) is acceptable. On the second day (day of presentations and Closing Ceremony) business attire is required.

Are there additional resources for presentations?

Yes, there are! Resources can be found here. Please check out the tabs for linked PDFs.

Prize Structure
The regional round of competition for Impact Challenges will take place with teams competing in one of the leagues per region. The first-place teams from each league will move on to compete in the Impact Challenge Final Round of Competition during the Enactus Canada National Exposition. The award structure for each Impact Challenge is as follows:

Regional Round of Competition

Regional Champion: $1,500
Runner-Up: $1,000
Second Runner-Up: $500

Final Round of Competition

National Champion: $3,000
Runner-Up: $2,000
Second Runner-Up: $1,000

Impact Challenge Final Rounds (at National Exposition)

Regional Champions from each league will compete in the Final Round for the respective Impact Challenge National Champion. The competition follows the same rules and guidelines as the Regional Expositions, with the option to choose between the regional reporting deadline (February 23, 2025 – February 22, 2026 ) or the national reporting deadline (April 13, 2025 – April 12, 2026).

Project Accelerators

NOTE: Student Leaders may apply for 2025-2026 Project Accelerator Funding through CACTUS.

The application deadline has passed. Recipients will be announced on October 29.

Tips For Writing a Project Accelerator Application

Alterna Savings SDG Project Accelerator

Note: 75% of the project grant will be disbursed in November 2025. The final 25% will be disbursed in May 2026, upon completion of a final impact report that is deemed acceptable by the review committee.

Capital Power Powering Change by Changing Power Project Accelerator

Note: 75% of the project grant will be disbursed in November 2025. The final 25% will be disbursed in May 2026 upon completion of a Final Impact Report that is deemed acceptable by the review committee, and participation in the Capital Power Powering Change by Changing Power Accelerator Final Round of Competition.

Jeanne Sauvé Global Project Accelerator

Jeanne Sauvé Workplace Inclusion Project Accelerator

National Bank Indigenous Inclusion Project Accelerator

Note: 75% of the project grant will be disbursed in November 2025. The final 25% will be disbursed in May 2026 upon completion of a Final Impact Report that is deemed acceptable by the review committee, participation in the National Bank Indigenous Inclusion Project Accelerator Final Round of Competition, and confirmation that at least two students from the Enactus team completed the Indigenous Awareness Training course.

PC Financial Resilience Project Accelerator

Ralph M. Barford Equal Access Project Accelerator

RBC Skills for a Thriving Future Project Accelerator

Social Enterprise Accelerator

A new 12-week program for 10 enterprises to support the development and launch of a social enterprise (must be aligned with one UN SDG). Applications are now closed for this program.

Note: 100% of funding will be dispersed in November.

Social Enterprise Accelerator Overview

Social Enterprise Accelerator Application Template

Student Entrepreneur National Competition

Nominations and applications for the 2026 Student Entrepreneur National Competition are now closed.

Nominations and applications for the 2026 Student Entrepreneur National Competition are now closed.

Nominations:

All student entrepreneurs must be nominated or self-nominated via this form .
Eligible nominees will receive a personalized link to the application.
Use this word document to support your application. Drafts cannot be saved in the application form.
The nominations are now closed.

Applications:

Use the personalized link sent by Enactus Canada after nomination.
Applications must be submitted online
Deadline: January 4, 2026 at 11:59 PM (EST)

What you will need to provide:

Founder profile: You and your role in the business.
Business overview: Problem, solution, customers, market, traction, and growth plan.
Proof of full-time enrollment: Documentation from your institution (see eligibility details).

Judging Criteria:

Entrepreneurial Spirit (10 points): Perseverance, integrity, leadership, and self-awareness as a founder.
Sound Business Model (10 points): Clear problem–solution fit, market understanding, defensibility, and measurable value.
Traction (20 points): Evidence of progress—revenue, users, pilots, partnerships, pipeline, or other validated milestones.
Scalability (10 points): Realistic path to growth (or credible exit), resources and strategy to reach the next stage.

Review full judging criteria.

Finalist Selection Process:

Nominees are asked to submit a written application outlining their company and their experience as an entrepreneur.
Judges review applications and independently rank their top thirty (30) applications.
A separate panel of judges will independently select their top twelve (12) applicants to be named finalists in the Student Entrepreneur National Competition.

Digital Round of Competition:

These twelve (12) finalists will then compete in a digital round of competition where they will have a recorded video pitch, up to 5 minutes in length, about their business to supplement their application form.
Judges will independently rank according to the judging criteria and will select three finalists who will move on to the live in-person Final Round of Competition.

Final Round of Competition:

The three (3) finalists will present their ventures to a panel of top executives and industry leaders at the Enactus Canada National Exposition taking place May 6, 2026 in Montréal, Québec

Confidentiality and Code of Conduct

All information submitted in the application will only be reviewed by Enactus Canada staff and independent judges. All judges sign confidentiality agreements before participating in the evaluation process.

All participants must abide by the Enactus Canada Code of Conduct and sign the Truth of Information declaration included in the application form. These ensure the ethical and professional integrity of all Enactus Canada programs and competitions.

For questions or more information, please contact: Enactus Canada Programs Team – programs@enactus.ca

Disclaimer: Enactus Canada reserves the right to adjust prize amounts or competition structure without notice.

Three (3) finalists will receive complimentary lodging and travel (from within Canada) to attend the Enactus Canada National Exposition

The Student Entrepreneur National Champion (1st) will receive a $10,000 cash prize
The Student Entrepreneur National Runner-Up (2nd) will receive a $4,000 cash prize
The Student Entrepreneur National Second Runner-Up (3rd) will receive a $2,000 cash prize

December 5 – All nominations must be received by 11:59PM ET
January 4, 2026 – All applications forms and supporting documents must be submitted by 11:59PM ET
January 22 – Top 12 Finalist Announcement – The top twelve (12) student entrepreneurs will be notified. All student entrepreneurs will be notified at this stage.
February 4 – Finalist Video Pitch Due – The top twelve (12) will submit a video pitch of up to 5-minutes in length
February 20 – Top 3 Finalist Announcement – The top three (3) student entrepreneurs will be notified. All top 12 finalists will be notified at this stage.
March 25 – Official Top 3 Finalist Announcement – Official announcement will be released on Enactus Canada’s social media channels
April – Online Training – Competition Preparation training for the top three (3) finalists only. Exact date and time to be confirmed. May 6 – Final Round of Competition – Held at the Enactus Canada National Exposition in Montreal, Quebec. Exact date and time to be confirmed.