Evolve to Innovate (e2i)
Translating research into impact
Evolve to Innovate (e2i) has been enhanced this year to provide more value and incentives for participants. Please review these changes before applying:
- This program includes three required units. Participants will receive a cash award of up to $2,000 per unit completed, to a maximum of $6,000.
- PI’s will no longer receive a cash award or research allowance unless they enroll as participants.
- Participants can now earn a micro-credential upon completion of each unit.
What is e2i?
Evolve to Innovate (e2i) is an experiential training program designed to support UCalgary postdocs, research associates, and graduate students as they develop and improve the skills needed to translate their research into impact outside of academia. e2i offers funding, programming, and mentorship to empower participants as they navigate the innovation process.
The program is characterized by three core units: Communicating Beyond Academia, Problem-Driven Innovations, and Innovation Beyond Academia. Through these units, participants will strengthen their ability to communicate research effectively, apply problem-focused innovation techniques to create relevant solutions, and gain strategic insight into next steps. Successful completion of each unit earns participants a $2,000 award and a micro-credential, recognizing their readiness to apply their research for broader benefit.
Apply now
Evolve to Innovate (e2i) has been enhanced this year. Please review the updated application process before submitting your application.
Applications have been extended to January 7, 2025.
Unit 1: Communicating Beyond Academia
Unit 1 supports participants in adapting their communication skills to engage and inspire non-academic audiences. Through storytelling, public speaking, and visual techniques, researchers refine their ability to present ideas clearly and compellingly to diverse stakeholders, maximizing the impact of their work.
Unit 2: Problem-Driven Innovations
Unit 2 offers hands-on design thinking exercises that enhance participants’ skills and deepen their understanding of the challenges they address. By the end of this unit, participants will be equipped to thoroughly explore the needs of their target audience, reframe their solutions, and effectively position them to engage diverse stakeholders, including investors, funding agencies, and community partners.
Unit 3: Innovation Beyond Academia
Unit 3 provides researchers with essential knowledge and planning tools to navigate the early steps of extending their research impact beyond academia. Participants explore key topics like intellectual property, regulatory basics, go-to-market strategies, and technology roadmaps, enabling them to make informed decisions and prepare for the next steps in applying their innovations.
Application process
We have simplified the application process from previous years.
Fill out the application form
Fill out a short application form with your details, and a description of your research.
Submit a short video
Submit a video (up to 3 minutes) covering the following: problem description, solution and unique value, and your goals for the e2i program. For a detailed outline and rubric, please refer to the FAQ section.
Skip the interview process
To streamline the application process, the interview phase has been removed. Applicants will receive direct acceptance updates.
Timeline
Nov. 21
Applications open
Jan. 7
Application deadline
Jan. 15
Notifications of acceptance
Jan. 22
Program kick-off
Jan. 29
Unit 1: Communicating Beyond Academia
March 12
Unit 2: Problem-Driven Innovations
April 16
Unit 3: Innovation Beyond Academia
May
Finale Event & Program Graduation
Key information
Did we miss your question? Email us directly at [email protected] to let us know what you're curious about, and we'll get back to you with answers.
FAQ
e2i is open to University of Calgary Postdocs, research associates, and graduate students from all faculties. Faculty and Principal Investigators (PIs) are also eligible to apply but the same level of commitment is expected.
Unlike previous years, participants will not receive a cash award or research allowance upon acceptance. Instead, they will earn a $2,000 cash award for each completed unit, with a maximum of $6,000 for all three units. The completion of a unit is defined by full attendance and active participation.
Unlike previous years, Principal Investigators will not receive a cash award or research allowance unless they enroll as participants.
Micro-credentialing recognizes non-credit learning through digital badges that showcase specific skills and achievements. These badges provide a visual, shareable record with detailed metadata, supporting personalized professional development. Learn more here.
Micro-credentials are earned at the end of each unit through the submission and approval upon assessment of a final activity.
Participants must attend and actively participate in a weekly two-hour in-person session to complete each unit. In addition, they are expected to dedicate approximately two hours per week to complete suggested activities, totaling a four-hour commitment each week.
This program will be in-person only, with sessions held Wednesday afternoons at the Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking. There will not be an option to attend remotely, however sessions will be recorded and may be made available at a later date.
There are no requirements of your supervisor, but we do recommend letting them know the time commitment you are making to the program. We also recommend ensuring they understand that the cash awards will only be available to yourself as the participant, as that is a change from previous years.
Please submit a video with your application no longer than 3 minutes addressing the points below:
- Problem Description - Describe, in simple terms, the specific problem your innovation addresses. Who stands to benefit most from this solution, and what positive impact could solving this problem have?
- Solution and Unique Value - Explain the practical applications of your work and highlight what makes your solution particularly exciting or unique. What sets it apart from existing solutions?
- Your Goals for the E2i Program - Share why you are interested in joining the E2i program. How do you envision the program contributing to your professional growth, including any specific skills or challenges you’re eager to tackle?
You will have the option to submit a link (YouTube, Google Drive, etc.) or upload the video directly to the application form.
