Innovation + Entrepreneurship

Postsecondary students sitting at a table having discussions and problem solving

Graduate students and postdoctoral scholars possess a valuable combination of skills: you are talented, creative, analytical, solution-oriented and innovative. Yet many high-level scholars rarely rank themselves high in core business skills.

Having an entrepreneurial mindset goes far beyond launching a startup or selling a product. It’s about leveraging innovation and creativity to shape policy, develop new processes and build best practices — transferable skills that graduate and postdoctoral programs naturally foster.

Explore on- and off- campus opportunities that connect your high-value skills with the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem — an ecosystem that needs your expertise.

Graduate Research Commercialization Challenge

Applications close Nov. 3, 2026

Are you a University of Alberta MSc or PhD student interested in exploring the commercialization potential of your research?

The Graduate Research Commercialization Challenge, a pilot initiative from Edmonton Unlimited and the University of Alberta Graduate Students’ Association (GSA), helps graduate students explore how their research could become a product, service, technology, process or venture. Applicants will have access to a pitch clinic, while selected finalists will present at the Final Showcase on Nov. 23, 2026.

Cash prizes: $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place and $250 for third place, along with one-on-one coaching hours.

Apply today

Explore Entrepreneurship Beyond the Lab and Classroom

The Explorer Program is an introductory, workshop-based series hosted by the Engineering Incubator. Designed for students, researchers and faculty across all disciplines, this program demonstrates how technology-driven ideas transition from concept to viable products.

Explorer Session 4: Your patent is not your business model (1.5 hours PD credit)

Next session: Oct. 20, 2026 | 5 - 6:30 p.m. MDT | 2-040 Engineering Teaching and Learning Complex (ETLC), North Campus

Explorer Session 5: How to grow the team (1.5 hours PD credit)

Next session: Nov. 3, 2026 | 5 - 6:30 p.m. MDT | 2-040 Engineering Teaching and Learning Complex (ETLC), North Campus

Register for workshops

Entrepreneurship Opportunities

On-Campus

Many campus organizations offer training and mentoring for aspiring entrepreneurs at various stages of development.

Off-Campus

Learn more about some of the local and national organizations that offer support for new entrepreneurs and innovators.

Other Resources

More resources to help take your ideas and research to the next level.