Canada’s Next Sustainable Changemaker Challenge

• Cash prize awarded to the winning startup following a pitch competition judged by Mackenzie executives.

• The applicant must be a startup company.
• The company must be developing solutions that contribute to achieving net-zero emissions.
• The company must focus on one or more of the following areas: affordable and clean energy, green solutions in real estate and property development, or sustainable cities and communities.

Who is eligible?

• Startups building solutions in affordable and clean energy
• Startups focused on green solutions in real estate and property development
• Startups that aim to create more sustainable cities and communities

Eligible expenses

• Cash funding awarded in the form of prizes during the presentation competition.
• Free access to the Elevate festival to facilitate networking and business promotion.
• Mentoring and support in business development (value in the form of services received).

Eligible geographic areas

• Companies established in Canada

• Ability to demonstrate how the solution contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
• Clarity and effectiveness of the pitch presented to sustainable development leaders and the Mackenzie team.
• Potential of the project to support the transition to a net-zero emissions future.
• Ability to integrate sustainability into the business model and practices of the company.

• Participants receive complimentary access to the Elevate Festival 2025 in Toronto for networking and learning opportunities.
• The program provides mentorship and coaching in key areas such as fundraising, marketing, and sales.
• Companies can gain brand awareness through promotion by the Mackenzie and Elevate teams.
• Alumni testimonials describe benefits such as business development support and access to sustainability-focused investors.