XPRIZE, a global leader in incentive competitions aimed at solving the world’s most pressing challenges, has chosen the University of Calgary (UCalgary) as the home of its first-ever international hub—solidifying the city and institution as cornerstones of Canada’s innovation landscape.
UCalgary will operate the XPRIZE Canada Hub through a $10 million, five-year initiative, supported by $1.5 million in funding from Alberta Technology and Innovation and an additional $1.5 million from the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF).
Dr. Ed McCauley
“Being chosen as XPRIZE’s Canada Hub is a testament to our leadership in innovation and entrepreneurial thinking in Canada,” said Dr. Ed McCauley, president and vice-chancellor of UCalgary. “We’re excited to see the amazing world-changing ideas and innovations that will come from the hub at UCalgary.”
The launch of the Canada Hub marks a significant step in XPRIZE’s global expansion strategy, designed to connect more innovators with the organization’s network and prize opportunities.
“As we aim to expand XPRIZE’s global impact, our Hubs will play a pivotal role in fostering connections with innovators worldwide to address the most urgent challenges facing humanity,” said Anousheh Ansari, CEO of XPRIZE. “The University of Calgary is the ideal premier partner for the XPRIZE Canada Hub with its strong commitment to research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Together we will build a strong startup ecosystem to build scalable solutions toward a better future for all.”
UCalgary’s position as Canada’s top startup creator among universities over the last five years was a key factor in its selection. The new hub will further leverage that entrepreneurial momentum by supporting Canadian teams to engage in XPRIZE competitions, helping validate and de-risk new technologies for investment and real-world implementation.
Nate Glubish
Anousheh Ansar
“The establishment of the XPRIZE Canada Hub at the University of Calgary is a remarkable addition to Alberta’s thriving tech sector,” said Nate Glubish, Minister of Technology and Innovation of Alberta. “With our world-class researchers, vibrant startup community, and substantial venture capital investments, this hub will further accelerate innovation and solidify Alberta’s position as a leader in technological advancements.”
The City of Calgary sees the partnership as an affirmation of its identity as a forward-looking innovation hub.
Jyoti Gondek
“Calgary has always been a city of visionaries, a place where ideas turn into real-world solutions,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “Our partnership with XPRIZE Hub strengthens our international reputation as a city that is actively building a better future for everybody. By aligning with XPRIZE’s global mission, Calgary is showing what’s possible when innovation, ambition, and community come together.”
For Brad Parry, CEO of OCIF and Calgary Economic Development, the hub is a high-impact catalyst for both economic and social progress.
Brad Parry
“Calgary is where bright minds and big ideas come together to solve global challenges, and the Canadian XPRIZE Hub is powerful proof of that,” said Parry. “This partnership will bring world-class talent to Calgary to develop groundbreaking ideas that build economic resilience while putting our city on the map as a global innovation hub.”
The XPRIZE Canada Hub at UCalgary will serve as a key platform to engage Canadian innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs with global partners. As the first of several planned international locations, the hub is expected to act as a “powerful nucleus of impact,” convening cross-sector stakeholders, attracting top-tier talent, and helping shape and deliver breakthrough solutions to the world’s most urgent problems.
Mario Toneguzzi
Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Entrepreneur. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 and 2024 as one of the top business journalists in the world by PR News. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024 and 2025.
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