IS Under dev

IDEA START is UM’s dedicated hub for entrepreneurship in all its forms. Offering a unified hub to access cutting-edge technology, tailored mentorship, and collaborative spaces, Idea Start provides a foundation to grow innovative ideas into viable successful ventures.

rajeev-koyal-consulting

Take your IDEAS to IMPACT

Click the link to connect with IDEA START to get one-on-one mentorship on taking your idea to the next level.

What we do?

Personalized Mentorship

Every great venture starts with guidance. Our one-on-one mentorship program pairs you with experienced entrepreneurs and industry professionals who provide tailored advice, strategic insights, and accountability as you develop your idea from concept to launch.

Comprehensive Resources

Whether you're exploring a business concept, validating a prototype, seeking funding, or scaling your startup, we provide access to:

  • Entrepreneurship training and workshops
  • Business planning support
  • Networking events and competitions
  • Legal and IP guidance
  • Market research tools

Community Connection

Join a vibrant community of student entrepreneurs, faculty innovators, researchers, alumni founders, and staff visionaries. Collaborate, share experiences, and build lasting relationships that extend beyond campus.

Learn more about I-VIC here

andrew-tse-with-mentees

IDEA START is your central hub for entrepreneurship at the University of Manitoba. We bring together all entrepreneurship ecosystem partners under one umbrella, making it easier than ever to access the resources, expertise, and support you need to turn your ideas into reality.

Connect with IDEA START

Centralized Support

Navigate the entrepreneurial ecosystem with confidence. We connect you directly with the right programs, workshops, funding opportunities, and experts across campus—eliminating confusion and saving you valuable time.

Events

News & Updates

News & Stories

View more news and stories

Latest Episode IDEA START Podcast

The IDEA START Podcast is co-hosted with The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning

Thumbnail for IDEA START Podcast Season 2 - Episode 1
IDEA START Podcast Season 2 - Episode 1 Watch Video

Season 2 | Episode 1 - Midlife Mountaineer

In this episode, we sit down with Ray and Jackie Hope — the adventurous filmmaking duo behind Midlife Mountaineer and creators of the award-featured short film Prairie Ice Farmers. From learning filmmaking during the pandemic to climbing mountains in their 50s, they’re redefining what it means to be “over the hill.”

Hear their journey into storytelling, entrepreneurship, creativity, and building a production company while working full-time jobs — plus their advice for students, creators, and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Watch to get inspired, rethink aging, and learn how passion can fuel reinvention at any stage of life.

Listen or watch here

Find more fun episodes here

Volunteer Opportunities

idea-start-volunteer-team

Get involved with IDEA START

Volunteering with IDEA START is your gateway to hands-on experience, meaningful connections, and a front-row seat to innovation in action.

We're always looking for enthusiastic volunteers to support our initiatives, programs, and events that bring the University of Manitoba's entrepreneurial community to life. Whether you're helping at pitch competitions, mentorship sessions, workshops, or networking events, you'll play a vital role in fueling the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Why Volunteer with Us?

  • Build Your Network – Connect with entrepreneurs, industry leaders, mentors, and fellow students who share your passion for innovation
  • Develop Real Skills – Gain hands-on experience in event coordination, communications, community building, and more
  • Enhance Your Resume – Receive a volunteer letter of recognition to showcase your commitment and contributions
  • Give Back – Support your peers and help create lasting impact in Manitoba's entrepreneurial ecosystem
  • Enjoy Perks – IDEA START swag, and invitations to special events

If you're interesting in helping us shape Manitoba's entrepreneurial ecosystem,

Become an IDEA START volunteer

Contact us

Contact Us

IDEA START
2nd Floor, Unit 100, 1 Research Road
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, MB R3T 6E3

ideastart@umanitoba.ca