Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre at Queen's University

We are excited to welcome the 2025 cohort of Ignite Entrepreneurship. During Ignite, ideas transform into action—fellows will dive deeper into prototyping, refining their ventures, and gaining the skills to drive real-world impact. Learn more here:https://lnkd.in/d-Px5_kY #YoungAfricaWorks #DDQICAfricaInititiaves Queen's University Mastercard Foundation

We're proud to see Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship alumnus Bogadi Letsile leading the charge in climate tech! 🌍🚀 As the founder of Nanopula, she's developing innovative, scalable solutions to tackle industrial emissions using advanced nanotechnology. By transforming plant waste into carbon-sequestering aerogels, Nanopula is not only reducing carbon footprints but also driving the circular economy forward. Check out the incredible work she's doing: https://lnkd.in/dnjeqGjc

During our recent DDQIC Latin America Innovation Trip, we had the privilege of visiting Universidad Panamericana, where we engaged in meaningful discussions to explore new avenues for collaboration in innovation and education between Canada and Mexico. We are grateful to CALDO Universities for helping facilitate this connection, paving the way for future opportunities to collaborate and innovate together. Exciting times ahead as we continue to build bridges across borders! #Innovation #Collaboration #Entrepreneurship #Education #GlobalPartnerships

The Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre at Queen’s University(DDQIC) is proud of its partnership with the Enterprise Business Center (EBC) at the University of Kigali in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Rwanda! This partnership recently marked a historic milestone with the University of Kigali's inaugural pitch competition, held at the Lemigo Hotel. The event brought together students, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and esteemed guests, all united by a shared vision of driving impactful change. The competition showcased groundbreaking ideas that are shaping the future of Rwanda with the potential to scale across Sub-Saharan Africa and globally: 1st Place Prize (2M RWF) – UEIDR by Ishimwe Fabrice Ishimwe Revolutionizing education for children with disabilities through specialized learning tools and support. 2nd Place Prize (2M RWF) – ABI by Yasmine Malika Ouedraogo Tackling food insecurity with innovative soil gardening techniques. 3rd Place Prize (2M RWF) – Idabro’s Peanut Oil by Kiro Idellie Batiga Adding value and promoting healthy living through superior peanut oil production. 4th Place Prize (Laptop) – Waste to Protein Rwanda by Murekatete Mariepoul Transforming organic waste into valuable, protein-rich animal feed. 5th Place Prize (Laptop) – Nutri Farm Solutions by Nshimiyimana Aphrodice Innovating chicken egg incubation for enhanced productivity. 6th Place Prize (Tablet) – Akiba Rwanda Ltd by Daive Jean Engueng Providing organic energy drinks from locally sourced plants and fruits. 7th Place Prize (Tablet) – Sabuso Ltd by Jean Bernard Uwimana Sadiki Empowering education through technology with an e-learning platform. This competition was more than just a contest; it was a powerful testament to the potential of young innovators in Rwanda. A special thank you to our DDQIC coaches who served as judges: Enoch Muwanguzi, Naturinda Emmanuel, and Aqeela A. Somani, MMIE. Your insights were invaluable in shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs. Congratulations to all participants! Your journey is just beginning; we can’t wait to see what’s next. #EntreprenuerialMindset  #GlobalPartnerships #FutureLeaders #InnovationforChange

Last call to apply for the Hult Prize Foundation competition and the chance to win $1 million in funding! https://lnkd.in/gdjWqM5q This global competition challenges student entrepreneurs to develop innovative solutions to the world's most pressing issues, aligned with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Register now to compete in the regional competition - the 2025 Startup Challenge - hosted by the Centre for Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Social Impact | Smith School of Business for the opportunity to represent Queen's University on the global stage. Applications close February 17, 2025. Learn more and apply at the link above #SmithBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Funding #SDGs

Last call to apply for the CEISI Hult Prize! the Hult prize is a pitch competition that inspires students to solve global problems through innovation and entrepreneurship. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/gdjWqM5q

An amazing opportunity for startups to gain pitching experience and earn potential funding!

Call for Idea Submissions: Entrepreneurship Lab 2025 Cycle Are you a student or graduate with a burning entrepreneurial spirit? The Entrepreneurship Lab (Elab) invites you to submit your innovative business ideas for the 2025 cycle. Whether you're just starting with a spark of an idea or have a fledgling business ready to take flight, Elab is here to support you every step of the way. Who We Are: The Elab is a dynamic platform at Botho University, Botswana Campus managed by the Student and Alumni Affairs Department (SAAD). Our academic training partner is the Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre at Queen's University (DDQIC), Canada. Together, we aim to nurture and empower aspiring entrepreneurs through a supportive environment where you can: Develop your business idea: Transform concepts into robust business plans with guidance on ideation, market research, and financial planning. Access mentorship and guidance: Connect with experienced entrepreneurs, industry experts, and seasoned business professionals. Gain access to resources: Leverage partnerships with investors, incubators, and accelerators for funding and scaling opportunities. Build a strong network: Engage with a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, share ideas, and collaborate. Refine your pitch: Create compelling presentations to attract investors and win over potential customers. Who Should Apply: Students and graduates with existing businesses or innovative business ideas. Individuals passionate about entrepreneurship and making a positive impact. Advanced entrepreneurs are welcome! Funding is Available! Submission Deadline: February 15th, 2025 How to Apply: Click on the Link to Apply: https://lnkd.in/dsyzF9Qj Don't miss this opportunity to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality! Join Elab and embark on a transformative journey of growth and success. For inquiries, please contact: 3635480 Contact Persons: Ratidzo Murwisi & Phatsimo Mosimanegape

Deadline Reminder: Don't miss the opportunity to apply for the Program Assistant role with the Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre at Queen’s University! Application Deadline: January 31, 2025. Submit your application to: jimleechfellowship@queensu.ca. Be part of an inspiring team empowering young entrepreneurs across Africa. Send your resume and cover letter today! Read more about the role here:https://lnkd.in/dx3uDgfT Mastercard Foundation Queen's University #EntreprenuerialMindset

Join Our Team as a Program Assistant!  Are you passionate about fostering innovation and supporting young entrepreneurs in Africa? The Dunin-Deshpande Innovation Centre at Queen’s University (DDQIC) is looking for a dedicated Program Assistant to join our team and contribute to the success of the Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship. About Us: Established in 2012, DDQIC empowers change-makers through incubators, workshops, courses, and pitch competitions. In partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, our Fellowship program equips African university students and recent graduates with entrepreneurial training to stimulate job creation and innovation across the continent. Why This Role Matters: As a Program Assistant, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation and impactful programming of the Fellowship. You will support participants, manage program content, and coordinate various activities to help thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. What We Are Looking For: Strong communication and project management skills Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment Passion for innovation and impactful initiatives Proficiency in Microsoft Office and learning management systems. Why Join Us? At DDQIC, you will be part of a team that values curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Together, we amplify the potential of young entrepreneurs, creating pathways for sustainable impact. Apply by January 31, 2025, to be part of this exciting initiative. Send your resume and cover letter to jimleechfellowship@queensu.ca. Queen's University Mastercard Foundation