Weekend-Long Event Returns with Environmental Sustainability Theme

By Alyson MacKay, Partners in Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Disrupt It Weekend is back February 2–4, and with a new year comes a brand new theme. The weekend-long event has evolved from what once was Startup Weekend to Disrupt It, and the theme for 2018 will be environmental sustainability. This year’s theme is open to a wide range of ideas about and solutions for issues like water quality, recycling solutions, waste stream management, and increasing local food production. The possibilities are endless and they want to hear your ideas.

The weekend will kick off with an exciting keynote speaker Friday evening, and from there it is go time! Individuals will pitch their ideas, and cross-functional teams are then formed in order to develop the idea and validate a business model. The weekend concludes with teams presenting their final pitch to a panel of judges and competing for the grand prize and a series of other awards.

Disrupt It Weekend isn’t just for business people—it’s for anyone interested in entrepreneurship or passionate about environmental suitability. The weekend has seen participants from ages 16 to 65, from all backgrounds and experience levels. You don’t need to come as part of a team, or even with an idea for that matter. Most participants arrive as individuals and leave as part of a team with some new, like-minded friends. Teams form organically once the ideas have been pitched and the top ideas are voted on to move forward.

The organizing committee has expanded its team this year to bring on sustainability experts from EcoSuperior and EarthCare Thunder Bay, who will help to provide some insight into what is needed within the city and region. Workshops and information will be provided prior to the weekend to help with idea generation and prepare you for Disrupt It Weekend.

If you are interested in learning more about the event or signing up, visit disruptit.ca.