The 2021 iGen Challenge has announced this year’s winners!

The world has infinite problems and infinite solutions just waiting for entrepreneurs to tackle. Now in its 7th year, the Innovation Generation(iGen) Challenge was created for grade 7-12 students in the Central Okanagan(SD23) who want to innovate and start exploring entrepreneurship. Starting out early in school through opportunities like iGen is like playing junior varsity before launching into the big leagues. 

This year, over 60 student startup teams used empathy, creativity, and design thinking to create value for customers located in the Okanagan and around the world. The top 10 teams had an opportunity to pitch live at a virtual pitch event on June 17th hosted in the Kelowna Innovation Centre. The teams showed courage and grace under fire by the judges. At the end of the event, the top three winning teams were announced. 

Here is a look at the winning startups: 

About N/A Productions

In an online world where content is king, how do charities, nonprofits, and small businesses create quality videos to compete? Enter Owen, Trent, and N/A Productions. Clients like the United Way, Airhouse, and more endorse N/A’s pro video content at a reduced cost. N/A Productions’ original filming eye combined with quality and eye-catching edits make their videos stand out from the crowd. 

Need video content? Reach out on Instagram @NAproductions.co 

About Sagebrush Sticker Co.

Sagebrush Sticker Co. produces custom stickers with style and purpose. This trio of talented entrepreneurs make fun, sharp and quality stickers to tag your laptop, water bottle, phone case, and your purchase helps out local charities. Order original stickers or choose from their ever-expanding stock online. They make perfect gifts to brighten someone’s day or to cover your college dorm room fridge in style. The best part is that 25% of the sale goes directly to the charity of your choice. Stick with Sagebrush Sticker Co!

Need stickers? Connect with them on Instagram @sagebrushstickers or check out their website. 

About Shoe B&B

The Shoe B&B is an online marketplace connecting local artists with customers looking for customized shoes. Ben and Riley have signed on upcoming artists that add colour, designs, graphics, and more to your new custom kicks. Still love your shoes but want a fresh look? Shoe B&B will refurbish them like new and then get custom designs added. This hard-working team is looking for more local artists to join their community, customers that want their own flare on their feet.

Want a fresh look? Reach out to @theshoebandb on Instagram or TikTok or visit their website.

Young entrepreneurial minds need coaching, mentorship, and the opportunity to innovate. ​The iGen Challenge has been created to meet this need. ​Students gain access to mentors from local businesses and find solutions to real-world problems. They are guided through the startup development process to create enterprises, find funding, build a network and ultimately make an impact in the innovation ecosystem in the Okanagan. 

The iGen Challenge is run by the Central Okanagan School District (SD23) and supported by many local organizations including; Accelerate Okanagan, High Street, Lawson Lundell LLP, and KPMG.