TechAlliance, in partnership with Pillar Nonprofit Network and Libro Credit Union, are putting $20,000 and a suite of personalized services forward for each of two innovations that will help Southwestern Ontario recover from and rebuild in the aftermath of COVID-19.
Recovery & Rebuilding the Region Design Challenges, co-presented by WEtech Alliance and Communitech, are an open call for technology-enabled “Made in Southwestern Ontario” products, services or solutions designed with our community in mind.
Two Design Challenges are set to launch, with each challenge period made up of a ten-day cycle. Three days to plan. Three days to apply. Three days for industry experts to evaluate submissions. The final day will see the announcement of a successful solution, to be granted $20,000 of funding and access to a suite of personalized supports from the partner organizations.
Recognizing that the day-to-day needs surrounding COVID-19 are constantly changing, time is of the essence to ensure effective solution delivery. Innovation can’t wait.
Challenge #1: Recovery
$20,000 and personalized support for one innovation that addresses an immediate health or social issue related to COVID-19.
Challenge #2: Rebuilding
$20,000 and personalized support for one innovation that supports economic recovery and community prosperity in Southwestern Ontario.
Recovery & Rebuilding the Region Design Challenges will amplify technology-driven solutions that incorporate inclusive, human-centred design, taking into consideration those who have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19.
Now is the time to take action. Applications for Challenge #1 will be open this Thursday, April 30 — until this Saturday, May 2.
In response to unprecedented challenges, Southwestern Ontario innovators are creating bold, technology-driven solutions through the Design Challenges to address our region’s needs. Now more than ever, it’s crucial to enable them with resources and guidance as they take the initiative to preserve our economic prosperity. We’re grateful to be leading this call for ‘Made in Southwestern Ontario’ solutions in partnership with two organizations devoted to social responsibility, and with the commitment of two other Regional Innovation Centres. This initiative truly embodies the collaborative Ontario spirit.