Deadline: November 9, 2025
The Synapse Life Science Competition 2026 is back — a premier life sciences pitch competition that empowers innovators and students to transform cutting-edge research into real-world commercial success. Organised by the Synapse Consortium and Innovation Factory, this competition supports early-stage life science entrepreneurs in Southern Ontario, Canada, helping them take their innovative ideas, products, or services from the lab to market.
If you are a scientist, innovator, or student passionate about life sciences and commercialisation, the Synapse Life Science Competition 2026 offers you a unique platform to showcase your innovation and connect with mentors, investors, and experts across Canada’s thriving biotech ecosystem.
About the Synapse Life Science Competition 2026
The Synapse Life Science Competition 2026 is designed to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and market readiness. It brings together innovators and students to develop business strategies that support the commercialisation of breakthrough life science ideas.
Through structured training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, participants gain the business acumen and industry exposure needed to transform their research or early-stage innovation into a viable commercial enterprise.
Benefits
Participants of the Synapse Life Science Competition enjoy:
- Expert mentorship and business training from experienced professionals in the life sciences sector.
- Support in business planning and commercialisation, helping participants refine their strategies for market entry.
- Networking opportunities with investors, researchers, and industry leaders.
- Exposure to potential funding and partnership opportunities within Canada’s vibrant innovation ecosystem.
Eligibility Criteria
For Innovators
To qualify as an innovator in the competition, applicants must:
- Be located in Southern Ontario.
- Be incorporated in Canada or plan to be by 31 December 2025.
- Not have previously placed among the top competitors (i.e., top 10 in LiONS LAIR or top 5 in a previous Synapse Competition).
For Students
Eligible student participants must:
- Be upper-year undergraduate students, graduate students, or recent graduates.
- Have a background or keen interest in science, engineering, business, or commercialisation.
Competition Structure
The competition pairs innovators with student teams to jointly develop a strong commercialisation and pitch strategy.
- Innovators bring forward their scientific or technical innovation — whether a new life science product, process, or service — and receive structured mentorship and commercialisation support.
- Students gain hands-on experience by working alongside these innovators, supporting business planning, pitch development, and market analysis.
Together, they prepare a compelling business case that is evaluated by a panel of industry experts during the final competition phase.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 9 November 2025
- Location: Southern Ontario, Canada
- Competition Type: Canada-only
Why You Should Apply
The Synapse Life Science Competition 2026 is more than a pitch event — it’s a launchpad for future leaders in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and digital health. Participants not only gain exposure and mentorship but also join a network that continues to support innovation long after the competition ends.
If you have a life science innovation that deserves to make a real impact, this is your chance to transform it from concept to commercial success.
How to Apply
Interested participants can apply directly through the official competition portal. Before you apply, ensure you review all eligibility criteria and prepare your proposal and supporting materials.
👉 Click here to read more about the programme
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review to enhance your application and improve your chances of success.
