Our Mission
The Institute’s mission is to provide transformational learning experiences that develop the innovative and entrepreneurial talent that Alberta needs.
Created in 2012, the Institute is completely donor and grant-funded and delivers impact through three interrelated initiatives: Student Programs, Research Programs, and ScaleUp and Growth Programs.
Achieving our mission would not be possible without the generous donations by David and Leslie Bissett, the RBC Foundation, TD Bank, Cathy and Bruce Williams, JMH & Co, connectFirst Credit Union, the John Dobson Foundation, and MRU alumni. Grant support is greatly appreciated by Alberta Innovates, Prairies Economic Development Canada,and the Calgary Innovation Coalition.
Our Impact in 2023
1377 |
|
$297,355 |
|
1805 |
|
69 |
|
8078.5 |
|
$889,700 |
|
Students Engaged |
|
Given In Paid Student Work Integrated Learning |
Community Members Engaged | Companies Engaged | Hours of Coaching | Funds Raised |
The Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship takes an innovative approach, delivering a number of transformational opportunities that will ensure career and personal success. These transformational learning experiences are interwoven into every one of the Institute's programs. We are proud to support our innovative faculty embed impactful transformational experiences both in and outside of the classroom.
Capstone Experiences
Capstone experiences are designed to allow practical application of the knowledge students have gained throughout their undergraduate degree. We support faculty by partnering with community members to provide students with work-integrated learning opportunities.
Undergraduate Research
A student’s academic experience is enriched by participating in a faculty-directed research project. We establish community partnerships that provide opportunities for both faculty and students to perform community-engaged scholarships that empower shared intellectually-engaged learning opportunities.
Co-curricular Projects
Students who embark on the complex, uncertain process of starting their own venture or advancing an innovation, will engage in a very unique work-integrated learning experience. By providing funding, mentorship, and knowledge, we remove roadblocks on their journey to ensure they maximize the learning outcomes. Many of the capabilities gained by making progress on an innovation or starting a venture are transferable, whether a graduate starts or joins an organization.
Community Engagement
Community partnerships with companies, non-profits, and governments provide students and faculty with unique opportunities and access to potential employers and research partners. We establish ongoing relationships with leaders of organizations to advance university/community collaborations and remove barriers to learning and scholarship.
Mentorship
MRU students highly value access to faculty and staff as part of their educational experience as well as contributing to their sense of belonging. We take a personalized approach to mentoring to ensure students have access to thoughtful and knowledgeable staff and alumni. Mentorship is often cited by students as the most valuable experience delivered by the Institute.