Leading the change for Prosperity
Whether focusing on social, technological, or scientific innovation, or sustainable business models, Coopérathon participants are challenged to develop solutions for economic inclusion, industry modernization, and digital trust.
The global economy is evolving at an unprecedented pace but not everyone is being carried forward. Millions still lack access to decent work, financial services, and the digital tools needed to thrive in the modern world. Inequalities continue to grow, especially for marginalized communities excluded from formal economies and digital systems. As industries and cities undergo rapid transformation, technologies like Fintech, Cybersecurity, and Industry 4.0 are reshaping how we work, produce, and connect. Yet without intentional design, these advances risk deepening existing divides.
Key subjects that you may consider (but not limited to):
- Financial Technologies
- Cybersecurity
- Manufacturing
- Industry 4.0
- E-Commerce
- Legal Technologies
- Insurance Technologies
- Creative Economy
- Solutions for SMEs
- Tourism
This challenge is tied to the following United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals:
Thank you to our Open Innovation Leaders
Challenge as part of Cooperathon 2026
How might we leverage technology, science, and data to create inclusive and equitable solutions that accelerate economic growth, foster resilient and sustainable industries, reduce inequalities, and build trust in digital systems for all Canadians?
Looking for a more specific starting point for your high impact project?
Some of our partners have identified real challenges they’re working on. These are optional inspirations, your project can address one of these directly, or simply use them to spark ideas for the broader Prosperity challenge.
Problematic brought by
ADAPTOVATE
Available soon…
Problematic brought by
Armour Cybersecurity
How can we make cybersecurity simple, approachable and actionable for non-technical business owners?
Problematic brought by
CAD IT Solutions
In Canada, certain business information is public, which may cause some businesses to be vulnerable to cyber-hacking attempts, identity fraud, and IP-related scams. What technologies and procedures can help these businesses protect themselves from these scams?
Problematic brought by
CAPSolar
How to connect different systems in a production line to obtain real time or near-real-time data?
Problematic brought by
Innovation Federal Credit Union
How might we use agentic AI and emerging technologies to reimagine how people discover, join and engage with a cooperative financial institution through intuitive, trusted digital experiences?
Problematic brought by
NGen
How to accelerate automation and boost productivity in Canada’s manufacturing sector?
Problematic brought by
VIA Rail Canada
How can we use data, automation and emerging technologies such as AI to make rail services future ready and more efficient?
Stakeholders & Target Audiences ↓
(not limited to)
- Indigenous peoples, newcomers, low-income households, and rural residents who face barriers to decent work, financial services, energy access, and digital inclusion.
- Businesses across Canada, especially in manufacturing, natural resources, and urban service sectors, that need affordable tools to modernize operations, improve productivity, and compete in the digital economy.
- Young Canadians and workers affected by automation or economic shifts, seeking to upskill, fair employment opportunities, and digital credentials to thrive in emerging industries.
- Residents in cities and remote areas grappling with housing insecurity, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to public services and economic opportunities.
- Local governments, nonprofits, and community organizations aiming to foster sustainable economic development, improve digital trust, and deliver inclusive services.
Scope & Constraints ↓
- Navigating diverse regulations related to data privacy, financial services, labour laws, and urban planning can slow innovation and increase costs
- Economic, labour, energy, and infrastructure data is often fragmented across government agencies, private sector, and local organizations, making integrated analysis difficult.
- Concerns around cybersecurity, data misuse, and digital literacy gaps reduce user confidence, especially among older adults and marginalized groups.
- Solutions must be adaptable to a wide range of cultural contexts and economic realities across urban, rural, and Indigenous communities to avoid one-size-fits-all pitfalls.
- Many industries and public services still rely on outdated infrastructure that’s costly and complex to modernize or integrate with new digital solutions.
- High upfront costs and logistical challenges in deploying affordable, clean energy solutions in underserved communities and small businesses.
Confidentiality ↓
All details relating to technologies, innovations or methods submitted to Cooperathon will remain strictly confidential, unless otherwise indicated.
Data, articles & information ↓
Unlock this information by registering today for Cooperathon 2026
Prize(s) ↓
1st Prize: $10,000
Take up this challenge!
Participate in Cooperathon and transform your ideas into innovative solutions that will bring lasting change to our world.