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The Chrysalis Innovation Challenge

Reimagining well-being through innovation, impact, and investment.

 

The Chrysalis Innovation Challenge is Canada’s premier platform for innovators shaping how we live well, age well, and care well. Apply to showcase your innovation, pitch to expert judges, compete for cash prizes, and build connections with potential investors to help grow your impact.

2025-2026 Themes

This year, finalists will gain access to potential investors, dedicated networking, and the chance to pitch their innovations on a national stage.

Canada’s aging population, rising complexity of care, and pressure on health systems call for bold, scalable, and people-centered solutions. Chrysalis connects innovators with the funding, partners, and visibility needed to turn early-market, and market-ready innovations into practice.

Chrysalis Themes

Your solution should reflect at least one of the following themes

How to Apply

Program Info
 

Review the Terms and Conditions: Here

Apply: Here

Applications are open from October 22, 2025 – January 9, 2026.

Who Should Apply.

  • Organizations, start-ups, and individuals with early-traction to later-stage/established solutions addressing at least one of the Challenge themes
  • Applicants from research, academic, creative, healthcare, or other sectors are welcome
  • Innovators looking to scale their impact and connect with investors, partners, and national visibility
  • Canadian teams or teams with intent to pilot/partner in Canada

 

What happens next?

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Apply Now

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6+ finalists are selected

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Finalists pitch to judges at the Pitch Event

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Winners receive prize funding

Awards & Benefits

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Cash prizes:

  • Winner: $30,000
  • Two Runner-Ups: $10,000 each
  • People’s Choice Award: $1,000
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Visibility:

  • National showcase with SE Health social media promotion
  • Live stream of the event
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Connections:

  • Dedicated investor networking during the Pitch Event
  • Engage with the other finalists and supporters of Canadian innovation

Timeline & Key Dates

Applications open - October 22, 2025 at 12:00AM ET

Q&A and Pre-Pitch Workshop - December 3, 2025 at 1PM ET

Applications close - January 9, 2026 at 11:59PM ET

Finalists announced - February 6, 2026

People’s Choice Voting - February 23 – March 4, 2026

Chrysalis Showcase & Pitch Finale - March 5, 2026

Eligibility Criteria

Solutions must be at the early-traction stage (or later) with a clear use case

Solutions must be developed by a Canadian team or teams with the intent to pilot/partner in Canada

Solutions must address at least one of the Challenge themes (Aging Well, Living Well, Caring Well)

Learn More

Who is in the Audience?

Program Info
 
  • Investors & Funders – Gain early access to ventures transforming well-being and connect with innovators driving scalable solutions
  • Health & Care Leaders – Discover practical solutions that strengthen care and improve community outcomes.
  • Innovators & Entrepreneurs – Learn from finalist pitches, get judge feedback, and build visibility in Canada’s innovation ecosystem.
  • Academics & Researchers – Explore pathways to translate research into real-world impact and form new partnerships.
  • Community & Non-Profit Leaders – Connect with peers, discover innovative ideas, and identify potential collaborators.
  • Previous Attendees – Reconnect with the innovation community and see this year’s breakthrough.

Sponsors

Chrysalis welcomes mission‑aligned sponsors who want to accelerate solutions in aging, health, and caregiving. Sponsors gain visibility through event branding, media, and participation in special awards.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Tazim Virani, Senior Vice President, Social Impact & Global Initiatives at tazimvirani@sehc.com

We are pleased to acknowledge our early sponsors:

FAQ

What kinds of solutions are eligible?

Early traction to later-stage/established innovations addressing at least one Chrysalis theme (Living Well, Aging Well, Caring Well) are welcome. Examples include digital health, AI, assistive tech, service innovations, programs, and creative models that improve outcomes. Mature, innovative solutions already in market may also be considered if they demonstrate impact.

Do I keep my IP?

Yes. Teams retain intellectual property while granting Chrysalis/SE Health permission to publicly showcase submissions for learning and promotion.

Are non‑Canadian teams eligible?

The Chrysalis Innovation Challenge is open to Canadian teams with innovations based in Canada or to international teams with the intent to partner/scale in Canada.

Can I submit more than one solution?

Yes, multiple submissions are welcome, provided each addresses a Chrysalis theme and meets eligibility criteria.

Is there a team size limit?

No strict limit—both individuals and teams of any size can apply.

What support is available for applicants?

Applicants can join the informational webinar, review the FAQ, and contact Dana McAuley, Program Manager, SE Solutions Lab at DanaMcAuley@sehc.com with further questions.

Can I revise my application after submission?

No. To avoid losing work, copy your responses into a document before submitting.

Are there any costs to apply?

No, applying is free.

How are finalists selected?

Finalists are chosen based on judging criteria including impact, originality, feasibility, viability & equity, and fit to theme.

If I can’t attend the Pitch Event in person, can I still apply?

Yes! Virtual pitching options will be available. However, we highly recommend finalists to attend the event in person to benefit from the networking and connections with potential investors.

When and how will winners be announced?

Winners will be announced during the Pitch Finale and showcased online through SE Health social media channels.

What do finalists receive?

Cash awards, national exposure, and investor networking at the Pitch Event.

Can past applicants and finalists apply?

Yes, except for previous first-place winners.

What are some examples of previous winners?

  • Root&Seed: Tools for collecting and celebrating family stories
  • Steadiwear: Hand tremor device adapting to individual tremor patterns
  • CaregiVR: Virtual reality platform reducing isolation and enhancing engagement
  • Headwaters Health Care Centre: Volunteer visiting program extending TeleCheck with in-person volunteer and paramedic support

 

Accessibility & inclusion

We are committed to accessible events and materials and encourage diverse teams and lived experience. Contact Dana McAuley at DanaMcAuley@sehc.com for support.

Have any questions?

Contact Dana McAuley (Program Manager, SE Solutions Lab) at DanaMcAuley@sehc.com