ICUBE

What does the future of rural and remote healthcare look like, and how can AI help shape it?

Join an evening of expert perspectives, innovative ideas, refreshments, and raffle prizes at the Healthcare Innovation Challenge!

A distinguished panel of leaders in medicine, data science, health innovation, and primary‑care transformation will share insights on current challenges, emerging opportunities, and the role of responsible AI in strengthening healthcare access across rural communities.

Following the panel, the Top 5 finalist teams will take the stage to pitch their AI‑driven solutions for a chance to win $5,000 in prizes.

Register here: https://www.healthcareinnovationchallenge.ca/event-1

Steeping Success is back! 🍵

These virtual coaching and mentorship sessions are for Indigenous Entrepreneurs to gain access to mentorship and coaching to help progress with their business ventures.

In these virtual sessions, you will be provided with an opportunity to:

- Have tea and hear insights from experienced business mentors
- Network with fellow Indigenous entrepreneurs
- Develop and refine your business ideas
- Discuss barriers to economic development and challenges faced by Indigenous entrepreneurs in the Greater Toronto Area

The first session is on March 23, 10 - 11:30am EST. These sessions will occur on an ongoing basis until mid-summer.

See you there!

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/steeping-success-a-virtual-tea-session-for-indigenous-entrepreneurs-tickets-1984970551353?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Looking for a Case Competition to add to your resume?

This four-day Virtual Sustainability Case Competition brings UTM students together with international university partners to collaborate on real-world sustainability challenges.

Students may participate individually or in pairs to work virtually over the weekend to develop and present their case solutions.

In addition to experiential learning and cross-cultural collaboration, $5000 in total prizes will be awarded!

https://www.utm.utoronto.ca/international/utm-virtual-sustainability-case-competition-2026

We’re excited to announce the ICUBE x CSC499 ROP collaboration: running from September 2026 to April 2027!

This Y‑course gives computer science students the chance to join our Ideation Lab and build a real business from the ground up.

We’ll be accepting new students for the 2026–2027 year. Stay tuned!

Explore ROP's here: https://www.utm.utoronto.ca/experience/research-opportunity-program

We’re excited to welcome our moderator, Brooke Gordon!

Principal of Brooke Gordon + Collective, Brooke is an inspirational speaker and executive coach who helps leaders build resilience and lead with confidence through uncertainty.

With 20+ years spanning engineering, entrepreneurship, senior leadership, and a longtime volunteer with Soroptimist International, Brooke is passionate about advancing women’s leadership and helping teams thrive.

We’re thrilled to have her for our upcoming Pitch with a Twist event.

On March 4, 2026, join us for our annual Pitch with a Twist competition, dedicated to supporting women-identifying entrepreneurs!

In honor of International Women’s Month, this event spotlights diverse voices, bold ideas, and innovation that breaks down barriers:

- Explore interactive startup booths
- Hear inspiring stories from accomplished speakers
- Connect with fellow innovators

Be part of an empowering evening that celebrates creativity, community, and entrepreneurship in action.

Register today: https://icubeutm.ca/twist/

Turn your raw idea into a venture-ready pitch with Kay Boamah, Founder of Facilitate & ICUBE Alum.

This is a hands-on workshop where you’ll:
• Stress-test your Problem, Solution, Impact & Pricing
• Refine your messaging with AI
• Generate and record a 30-second elevator pitch

You’ll leave with a completed business profile and a pitch ready to share within the ICUBE ecosystem. 🔥

Register Here: https://luma.com/gftaz159

Learn how to raise funds while protecting founder interests!

Join Ben, Co-founder of Capita and Community Lead at Fresh Founders, for a practical session designed for students, grad students, P*s, and first-time founders.

This session breaks down:
• Where the first $500K–$2M typically comes from
• Angels vs VCs — how they think, move, and decide
• SAFEs vs priced rounds (and what the terms really mean)
• Spinout-ready IP and assignment basics investors expect
• A simple investor readiness checklist

Ben brings real operator experience, backed by top U.S. investors, and legal playbooks used by hundreds of founders across software, AI, medtech, and hardtech.

Save your spot: https://luma.com/niuw2wz2

Expanding your business into new markets requires more than a strong product. It requires a clear and intentional brand.

Our virtual workshop on Feb 11th, 5:30-7:00 pm ET, is designed for entrepreneurs and leaders who want to understand how branding functions as a strategic tool for growth, cultural connection, and global positioning.

Led by Christine Lieu-Guzauskas, founder of CL Designs and host of the Brand Party Podcast, the session will cover brand foundations, international design principles, and cross-cultural storytelling.

Sign up today: https://luma.com/6vork1uz

Starting or growing a business comes with legal questionsand this session is designed to help.

Join an interactive Ask Me Anything onFebruary 4th, 5:30–7:00 PM ET with Michael Scardicchio, Founder of SLC Law and Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/C). This virtual session focuses on real-world legal topics entrepreneurs face, including trademarks, intellectual property, privacy, and shareholder structures.

A great opportunity for founders and business owners looking to set their businesses up for long-term success.

Register here: https://luma.com/tfy0wfaj

❤️ Celebrate love, culture, and community at the Valentine’s Indigenous Vendor Market!

This event will once again highlight Indigenous artists, makers, and small businesses at UTSC Geodesic Domes. If you’re looking to shop Indigenous, support local vendors, and grab some unique finds, this is one to check out.

Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

📍130 Old Kingston Rd, Highland Creek Park, Scarborough

We’re seeking applicants for our 2026 Winter Session!

The Ideation Lab Program is designed to help you turn innovative ideas into viable startups.

What you’ll gain:
• Skills to build a sustainable business or organization
• Hands-on experience with Design Thinking & Business Model Canvas
• Support from industry experts and mentors
• 50% off up to 25 hours of creative studio services

📥 Apply today at: https://icubeutm.ca/ideation-lab/