Supporting and growing the pipeline of small businesses and entrepreneurs in Canada is integral to the growth of the economy. In fact, there are 3.5 million entrepreneurs in Canada and small and medium sized businesses employ 14.3 million people (q1 2022, Made in CA). According to StartUp Canada, 45 per cent of entrepreneurs are from the Gen Z and Millennial generations.
It is clear there is a need to help drive entrepreneurship within the next generation, something that Enactus Canada has been doing for over 25 years through programs like the Student Entrepreneur National Competition.
One of the largest Canadian programs focused on full-time post-secondary student entrepreneurs, the competition has recognized hundreds of entrepreneurs that have gone on to receive national recognition for their businesses. Winners have included:
- Waive the Wait –Shreyansh Anand, Queen’s University, automation of administrative tasks at medical clinics.
- Peko Produce – Arielle Lok, McGill University, online grocery marketplace for mishappen or surplus groceries.
- VitalTracer – Azadeh Dastmalchi, University of Ottawa, SaaS solution through smartwatch technology to capture vital signs.
It is no coincidence that nominations are open for the Student Entrepreneur National Competition during Small Business Month (October) and Entrepreneurship Week (November). Now is the ideal time to recognize a student and help support growth in the economy.
Nominate a Student Today!
Entrepreneurs are selected through an annual nomination and application process. Students who meet the requirements are invited to apply and participate in three rounds of competition. The final three will compete at the Enactus Canada National Exposition for cash prizes of $10,000, $4,000, and $2,000.
To nominate or self-nominate, simply review the eligibility criteria below or on our website and fill out the nomination form. Nominations will be accepted from October 23 through December 5. Following the nomination, a formal application must be received.
- Enrolled as a full-time Canadian university or college for the current academic year
- A founder with at least 25% ownership of the company with no other individual or group with greater ownership, and be the individual primarily responsible for the business’ operations
- Not competed in the final round of the Student Entrepreneur Competition in the previous year or been a previous national champion
We look forward to engaging and celebrating a new group of student entrepreneurs in the 2025 Student Entrepreneur National Competition!