Emerging Innovator Award
The Emerging Innovator Award recognizes an individual or startup that is in the early stages of their innovation journey but is already demonstrating bold creativity, meaningful traction, and strong potential to make a lasting impact. This award celebrates Manitoba’s rising visionaries who are pushing boundaries and shaping the future of innovation.
Award Eligibility
To be eligible for the Emerging Innovator Award, the nominee must:
Be based in Manitoba or have a significant operational presence in the province.
Be an individual entrepreneur or an early-stage startup team.
Have an innovation at MVP, prototype, pilot, or early go to market stage.
Have agreed to be nominated. Posthumous nominations are accepted with estate or family contact information.
Judging Criteria
Judges for the Emerging Innovator Award will evaluate nominees based on the following:
Innovation and originality.
Early traction or progress achieved.
Potential for growth, scalability, or long-term impact.
Contribution to Manitoba’s innovation ecosystem.
Nomination Requirements
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Compelling Summary (max 650 characters) highlighting the nominee’s innovation and impact.
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Detailed Nomination (max 3,000 characters) outlining achievements, significance, and measurable outcomes.
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High resolution photo of the nominee or team.
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Confirmation that the nominee has agreed to participate and understands that, if shortlisted, they will take part in a professional video profile.
Key Dates
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Nominations Open: September 9, 2025
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Nominations Close: November 15, 2025
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Finalist Notification: December 9–13, 2025
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Public Announcement of Finalists: January 6, 2026
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Awards Gala: February 24, 2026
What Finalists Receive
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Recognition as one of three finalists.
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A professional video profile produced and showcased.
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One complimentary ticket to the gala.
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Spotlight at the awards ceremony.