We’re thrilled to announce the incredible nonprofits selected to participate in the Mission to Market Hackathon 2.0.
This fall, purpose-driven students and nonprofit innovators will come together for a weekend of bold ideas, problem-solving, and community building – all designed to help nonprofits reimagine their programs as financially sustainable social enterprises.
Hosted by the Social Innovation Hub, this is a chance to spark collaborations that create lasting social impact, while giving students hands-on experience solving real-world problems.
Here are the amazing organizations joining us this year:
Big Brothers & Big Sisters Association of Lacombe and District
Participant: Brianna Berthiaume
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lacombe and District connects young people with caring mentors who inspire confidence, belonging, and growth. In 2024 alone, they supported over 440 mentoring relationships across Lacombe, Blackfalds, and the surrounding area – helping youth build resilience and stronger relationships. With programs like one-to-one mentoring, Teen Mentoring, In-School Mentoring, and group activities like Kids & Kops, BBBSLD shows us what it means to stand in someone’s corner.
Calgary Dream Centre
Participant: Heather Jansen
The Calgary Dream Centre provides recovery programs, housing, and vocational training to people in pursuit of a life worth living. Their 90-day recovery program and transitional housing support more than 370 individuals in sober, community-based housing. They also operate Change is Good – a boutique-style thrift store in Inglewood that partners with local businesses to create a unique shopping experience. Best of all, 100% of profits go right back into supporting the Dream Centre’s mission.
Fintech Cadence
Participant: Darren Liao
Fintech Cadence is on a mission to advance Canada’s financial system so it better serves all Canadians. Through programs like the Innovate Financial Health (IFH) Lab, a national accelerator supporting fintechs that improve financial health for underserved communities, and their Fintech Certificate, an industry-recognized training program for aspiring fintech professionals, they’re shaping the future of financial inclusion. With more than 30 innovation competitions under their belt, plus initiatives like Fintech Drinks/Fintech Social, the Fintech Hub, and Ascension funding readiness program, Fintech Cadence is building a stronger, more accessible financial ecosystem for everyone.
Imagine Cities Research Centre Limited
Participant: Ron Jaicarran
Imagine Cities Research Centre works to inform the public, inspire action, and spark collaboration to strengthen neighbourhoods where residents can truly thrive. By equipping community leaders with training and resources, they help neighbourhood organizations build capacity and create lasting transformation. With a focus on developing a sustainable business model, Imagine Cities is paving the way for stronger, healthier communities across Canada.
Skillcity Institute
Participant: Funke Smith
Skillcity Institute is forging inclusive pathways to prosperity by empowering youth and families – especially those from racialized and under-resourced communities. Through future-focused skills training, STEM talent development, and career pathway programs, they help unlock upward economic mobility. With a holistic approach that blends experiential learning, mentorship, and access to networks and opportunities, Skillcity is preparing communities to thrive in a dynamic global economy.
Technology Helps Foundation
Participant: Charles Buchanan
Technology Helps Foundation is on a mission to eliminate technology poverty and strengthen digital equity for equity-deserving communities and the nonprofit sector. By building accessible, inclusive, and affordable technology solutions – delivered through strategic partnerships and community-led programs – they ensure everyone has the tools and support needed to thrive in a digital-first world. Their work includes empowering nonprofits with robust IT support, transformation, and cybersecurity, as well as providing direct access to technology devices for families in need through partnerships with the City of Calgary and iKare4Kids. Most recently, they launched Bread: Food Navigator, a platform connecting vulnerable populations to reliable emergency food resources — tackling food insecurity alongside digital inequity.
Thumbs Up Foundation
Participant: Kim Titus
Thumbs Up Foundation (TUF) is passionate about breaking down barriers in mental health care and creating solutions that emphasize scalability, inclusion, and accessibility. Guided by a simple yet powerful vision, a world where physical and mental wellness are balanced, TUF works to ensure timely, coordinated, and person-centred care. By fostering multi-disciplinary approaches and partnering with community organizations, they’re building pragmatic solutions that connect brain health services directly to those who need them most.
Volunteer Alberta
Participant: Graeme Dearden
Volunteer Alberta is dedicated to nourishing wellbeing and building healthy communities of belonging through volunteerism and civic engagement. By fostering connections and collaboration across networks like the Alberta Volunteer Centre Network, they provide nonprofits with the tools they need to thrive — from resource libraries and training workshops to affordable employee benefit plans. Volunteer Alberta also leads impactful initiatives such as the Volunteer Screening Program, National Volunteer Week, and the AB Civil Society Emerging Leaders Program. With their growing Social Research and Design portfolio, they’re equipping organizations with the data and insights needed to drive meaningful change in communities across Alberta.
What’s Next
We can’t wait to see what ideas come to life when these inspiring organizations team up with students at the Mission to Market Hackathon 2.0 this October.
- Kickoff Event: September 25, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Hackathon Weekend: October 17-19, 2025
This program is part of the Business Model Enhancement Program, made possible with the support of the Government of Alberta.
Stay tuned as we follow the journey of these nonprofits.