# Event Details

- **Event Name**: Next Mind innovation competition
- **Event Start and End Date**: Thu, 07 May, 2026 at 10:00 am – Thu, 07 May, 2026 at 02:00 pm (-04:00)
- **Event Description**: Next Mind innovation competition is a face-to-face event where bright minds showcase their coolest tech ideas!About this EventSpecial Minds is Canada's first pitch competition designed to champion neurodiverse tech innovators - because breakthrough thinking comes from minds that think differently.Hosted by the First Institution of Canadian Innovators (FICI) and supported by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services and the University of Toronto, this groundbreaking event provides a structured, inclusive platform for pre-seed science and technology innovators to pitch their ideas, access capital, and connect with Canada's top investors.Whether you're autistic, neurodiverse with a game-changing tech idea, Special Minds offers the support, structure, and opportunity you need to bring your vision to life.WHY SPECIAL MINDS?INCLUSIVE BY DESIGNTraditional pitch competitions weren't built with neurodiverse founders in mind. Special Minds features:- Structured 7-minute pitch + 3-minute moderated Q&A format- Dedicated program management team trained in neurodiversity support- 1-on-1 investor meetings facilitated by experienced counselors- Sensory-friendly environment and accommodationsBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT- Structured framework on building business plans and go-to-market strategies- Startup booth at Special Minds to showcase your MVP or product- Networking access with fellow innovators, investors, and industry leaders- Awards and networking reception for continued connections post-eventHOW IT WORKSSTEP 1: APPLY (FREE)Submit your application by March 31, 2026 at no cost. STEP 2: SELECTIONFICI judges review all applications and select the top 50 companies to present at Special Minds. Finalists announced April 5, 2026.STEP 3: PREPARESelected finalists receive access to business plan workshops, pitch coaching, and neurodiversity-informed program support to prepare for the big day.STEP 4: PRESENTEach of the 50 finalists receives:- Startup booth (all production included - just bring your MVP or prototype)- 10-minute stage time (7-minute pitch + 3-minute Q&A)- Full-day networking access, including awards ceremony and networking receptionKEY DATESMarch 31, 2026 - Application deadlineApril 5, 2026 - Top 50 finalists announcedMay 7, 2026 - Special Minds Pitch Competition (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM)SUPPORTED BYFirst Institution of Canadian Innovators (FICI)
- **Event URL**: https://allevents.in/toronto/next-mind-innovation-competition/100001983152057188
- **Event Categories**: contests, business
- **Interested Audience**: 
  - total_interested_count: 0
- **Event Highlights**: 
  - Duration: 4 hours
  - Location: University of Toronto
  - Languages: English

## Ticket Details

- **Ticket Price Range**: min: 0, max: 0, currency: CAD

## Event venue details

- **city**: Toronto
- **state**: ON
- **country**: Canada
- **location**: University of Toronto
- **lat**: 43.663487
- **long**: -79.3958273
- **full address**: University of Toronto, 27 King's College Circle, Toronto, Canada

## Event gallery

- **Alt text**: Next Mind innovation competition
  - **Image URL**: https://cdn-az.allevents.in/events6/banners/e82e832ec059372a8cf12fd751cbd7a3b02b7fcb3d87acc3a672465ad95f2cf2-rimg-w940-h470-dc11171e-gmir.jpg?v=1771405248

## FAQs

- **Q**: When and where is Next Mind innovation competition being held?
  - **A:** Next Mind innovation competition takes place on Thu, 07 May, 2026 at 10:00 am to Thu, 07 May, 2026 at 02:00 pm at University of Toronto, 27 King's College Circle, Toronto, Canada.
- **Q**: Who is organizing Next Mind innovation competition?
  - **A:** Next Mind innovation competition is organized by The First Institute of Canadian Inventors (FICI).
- **Q**: Who is this event for? Is it right for me?
  - **A:** Next Mind innovation competition is ideal for professionals, entrepreneurs, startup founders, and networking enthusiasts eager to grow their connections. Whether you're a first-time attendee or a longtime enthusiast in Toronto, this event is thoughtfully curated to deliver a standout experience worth every moment. If Next Mind innovation competition sounds like your kind of event, don't wait - spots fill up fast.

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