Expand your professional network
Link up with industry leaders, alumni and past winners, expanding your circle for exciting career opportunities. get ready to open doors!
Make your business money
Unlock opportunities for up to $70k funding and essential resources to ignite your business.
Learn how to craft your story
Master the art of formulating and delivering a compelling pitch
$70k in cash prizes and in-kind services
Get ready for the JMH LaunchPad Pitch Competition: Spotlighting MRU's rising entrepreneurs! With a hefty $70,000 in prizes on the line, it's the ultimate student pitch event in the province. Join our MRU alumni, friendly faculty, fellow students, and interested investors – all eager to explore the freshest ideas around.
But wait, there's more – before the main event, team up with experienced mentors to fine-tune your business and pitch. This is open to all degree-seekers from every corner of the campus. No need to worry about which faculty or program you're in!
“Receiving the LaunchPad Alumni Award as a student entrepreneur removes a significant financial hurdle. It gives you a sense of belonging to a community that believes in you. Winning this award makes you feel like you have a team of experienced individuals in your corner, cheering you on and supporting you every step of the way.”
— Rowan Dymond & Carman Lim, Co-Founders of LookMa!
“Winning the Launchpad Alumni Award in the 2024 Pitch Competition has been transformative for AVIS. Not only has it provided the financial resources to conduct crucial market research and make strategic investments, but it has also given me a significant boost in confidence personally. Knowing that a group of successful entrepreneurs believes in me and my vision is incredibly empowering. This support is a game-changer because it validates my instincts and assures me that I am on the right path, recognized and counted among those who have made meaningful strides in numerous industries.”
— Charter Beselt, Co-Founder of AVIS Drone Solutions
Apply to the JMH LaunchPad Pitch Competition
Applications for the JMH LaunchPad Pitch Competition now closed until January 2025.
Get in contact
Book a 15-minute meeting with one of our on-campus innovation coaches.
FAQs
Applying
How do I apply?
Fill out the application and include as much detail as possible. If chosen, one of our mentors will schedule a pitch time and practice pitch with you. Have an unsuccessful pitch? Don't worry, it's not a no, it's a no not yet. We’re always here to support you in your entrepreneurial growth (and 2nd pitches)!
If you have questions before applying? Book a meeting with our mentor Diana or Tianna to chat about your idea.
I don't have an idea, can I still engage with LaunchPad?
Absolutely! We're here to empower you to dive in. Our curated programs are designed to guide you towards the point where launching a business becomes a reality. Plus, we're a hub of vibrant community events waiting for you to jump in. Explore our event and program calendar for all the exciting details here.
My venture is a social enterprise or for purpose venture, is this the right place for me?
For sure! Members of the LaunchPad Community come from across campus, with diverse backgrounds and goals. Regardless of your business model, we are here to help!
I’ve never taken an entrepreneurship class, can I still apply to the programs?
100%! We always encourage you to enroll in MRU’s entrepreneurship classes, but if you cannot take the classes for whatever reason, we would still love to see you get involved. There’s a LaunchPad program for you whether you have an idea, you have started running a venture, or you have a changemaking idea.
I’ve never taken an entrepreneurship class, can I still apply to the programs?
100%! We always encourage you to enroll in MRU’s entrepreneurship classes, but if you cannot take the classes for whatever reason, we would still love to see you get involved. There’s a LaunchPad program for you whether you have an idea, you have started running a venture, or you have a changemaking idea.
I’ve never taken an entrepreneurship class, can I still apply to the programs?
100%! We always encourage you to enroll in MRU’s entrepreneurship classes, but if you cannot take the classes for whatever reason, we would still love to see you get involved. There’s a LaunchPad program for you whether you have an idea, you have started running a venture, or you have a changemaking idea.
General FAQs
Can I apply with another person or a team?
We are happy to accept applications from individuals or co-founding teams. If you have a co-founding team, we expect both team members to attend all pre-sessions to get the most out of the support we provide.
Do I need to be a business student to take part?
Whether you are pursuing any degree program across campus, the LaunchPad Pitch Competition welcomes you. Our inclusive approach values diverse perspectives and knowledge, making it the perfect fit for students with varying degrees of business experience. Rest assured, you do not need business expertise to take part — sometimes less is more!