Ingenious+ was created to support young innovators early in their journeys, when ideas are forming and encouragement matters most. We believe anyone can be an innovator, regardless of age or background, and that Canada’s future depends on nurturing creativity, optimism, and problem‑solving. Ingenious+ exists to help young people turn real‑life challenges into solutions that benefit their communities and the country.
In practice, Ingenious+ is a national youth innovation challenge that supports young people in Canada aged 14–18 to innovate for good. Youth apply as individuals or teams by sharing an innovation that addresses a community, Canadian, or global challenge. Innovations can include improving an existing product, service, or process, or creating something new that makes a meaningful impact.
The program operates in two stages. In Stage One, selected applicants receive a $1,000 Regional Award along with learning opportunities to help strengthen their innovation. Stage Two invites regional award recipients to participate in a national competition, where up to 13 young innovators are named National Finalists and receive an additional $1,000. One national award of $10,000 is presented in each of five categories: Community and Civic Engagement; Climate Change and the Environment; Equity and Inclusion; Health and Well‑being; and Technology and Entrepreneurship.
Beyond financial support, Ingenious+ offers mentorship, learning opportunities, and national recognition, including celebration during Canadian Innovation Week. The program connects young innovators to a national community, while ensuring their achievements are recognized locally, helping them build confidence, skills, and momentum to grow their ideas.
Ingenious+ has grown into a national community, reaching young innovators from coast to coast to coast. Over five years, nearly 600 young people have joined the program, with more than 100 innovators celebrated each year in their home communities. Its impact continues to spread through local recognition, peer networks, and shared inspiration.
This year, a dedicated Northern initiative will focus on increasing access and participation among youth in Canada’s North. This pilot initiative will provide tailored outreach, mentorship, and hands‑on learning experiences to build confidence, strengthen skills, and support Northern youth in developing impactful solutions. By addressing barriers related to awareness and connectivity through co‑creation approaches with local communities, the initiative will aim to enhance participation and create new pathways into innovation and entrepreneurship.
As Ingenious+ has grown, we have expanded the size of the community and strengthened opportunities for connection, learning, and visibility. We continue to refine the program based on participant feedback, ensuring it remains inclusive, relevant, and responsive to the evolving needs of young innovators.
Young innovators can apply to Ingenious+ during the annual application cycle by sharing their idea, impact, and motivation. Community members, educators, and supporters can visit the Rideau Hall Foundation website to learn more, nominate youth projects, or help spread the word.
