A New Virtual Concept

JoWell, this has been an unexpected end to the Winter Term. Kudos to everyone for drawing on their inner entrepreneur and adapting to the constantly changing new normal! Though you can’t see our smiling faces, we are still here to support you through these crazy times. It’s been incredible to see everyone’s collaboration and new ways of interacting, we are physically distant but seem to be closer than ever. 

In order to keep an appropriate social distance, the Concept $5K Finals needed a bit of a makeover so we’re embracing technology and going digital! Our 10 finalists sent in video pitches for our judges to review and select the top four winners. In addition to the four $5K Grants, our friends at Conrad will also be selecting a winner for the Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business Award. This award will provide one student team with access to two first-year engineering co-op students who can help them achieve short-term business objectives through a 7-week placement. 

But wait, there’s more! Since this style of pitch competition is brand new for Concept, we are also adding a brand new prize! The People’s Champ award will provide $500 to the Finalist who impresses viewers the most, and receives the most likes on their pitch video. 

Although you don’t have the pleasure of seeing them in person, you can still engage and be part of the competition! As our virtual audience you can engage in the following ways: 

• Watch the finalists pitch videos on YouTube
• Like your favourite team’s video to help them become People’s Champ 
• Guess which four teams will win the $5K Grants for a chance to win your own prize 

In addition to the $5K Finals going virtual, so are our coaching sessions. You still have the opportunity to talk to any and all of our amazing Concept Coaches and can connect with them virtually to discuss all things startup and continue working on your projects. 

To end this unique semester on a high note, our social media channels will be abuzz with some fun and engaging activities and give-away contests over the next few weeks. Our goal is to keep you updated, educated, and entertained! You can look forward to:

• Advice from our coaches on how to adjust and continue to work on your idea in this new reality 
• The $5K Winners and new People’s Champ will be announced 
• Student entrepreneurs will share how they are staying productive
• The Graduate Student Startup Fund Winners will be announced
• A virtual trivia competition and awesome prize giveaways 

You won’t want to miss out on all of this, so be sure to to follow us on social media. Every Monday our incredible Programs Lead, Carly Cameron, will be providing weekly video updates so you never miss a beat and can stay in touch… from a safe distance. You will now be able to enjoy Concept without leaving your couch – what a time to be alive!