The Tech Futures Challenge (TFC) engages student teams in identifying real-world sustainability issues, and addressing those issues using biology and blending it with an additional emerging technology of their choice.

Here is an overview of key dates and the general Tech Futures Challenge timeline. TFC will be a combination of online and in-person events, workshops and mentoring support.

TFC Kick-Off, online: January 16, 2025, 5:00-6:00pm; 6:00-6:30pm (team advisors only)

> TFC teams, mentors and MindFuel team join in Kick-off event activities, including meeting the teams, networking with mentors, immersing in the why of the TFC projects, and a quick overview of the TFC cycle, resources and schedule.

Project Idea Pitch Stage: January 16 – February 2025

> Teams work on their initial project pitch using the empathize, define & ideate stages of the design thinking process. Teams self organize their in-person or online meetings and project work at their own pace and with the support of their team advisor.

Project Pitch Video Submission: February 26, 2025

> Teams submit their pitch video for mentor judge feedback and awards, as well as their project seed funding form.

Skills Building Workshop, in-person: March 8-9, 2025

> Teams participate in hands-on skills workshops, presentations, and mentoring sessions for the weekend (Innovate Calgary’s Life Sciences Innovation Hub, Calgary).

Project Prototype Stage: March – May 2025

> Teams work on their project prototype using the iterative prototyping & testing stages of the design thinking process, biology, and an additional technology (such as coding, app development, 3D printing). Teams self organize their in-person or online meetings and project work at their own pace and with the support of their team advisor.

Prototype Showcase, in-person: May 31, 2025

> Teams share their project prototypes through a short project video, presentation & Q&A, and sample model/prototype for the opportunity of awards and prizes, receive mentor judge feedback; and celebrate their accomplishments of the TFC cycle (Calgary location, TBC).