Event

Ideas to Impact 2026

Ideas to Impact: Strengthening Community Innovation will take place on March 31, 2026, at Mohawk College’s Fennell Campus, bringing together industry partners, community organizations, funders, government and municipal leaders, and colleges for a half‑day of focused discussion on building capacity and adapting to new realities, in a climate of uncertainty. Running from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., followed by a lunch and an optional tour of our research facilities, the event will explore how applied research continues to shape and strengthen innovation. Participants will engage with thought‑provoking panels tackling topics like the evolution & opportunities of Applied Research in southern Ontario, dual‑use in the 21st Century, and seeing how Applied Research intersects with tariffs. With this dissemination of ideas and discussions taking place, we are able to work together to strengthen collaboration and chart the future of community‑driven innovation.

Time Agenda Item Location
8:30 AM – 9:15 AM Breakfast with Registrations JCPI (Gallery + Upper Way)
9:00 AM – 9:15 AM Quick Break
9:15 AM – 9:30 AM Leadership Address JCPI (Gallery + Upper Way)
9:30 AM – 9:45 AM IDEAWORKS Overview EA015
9:45 AM – 10:45 AM Evolution & Opportunities of Applied Research in Southern Ontario – Panel Discussion EA015
10:45 AM – 11:45 AM Understanding Dual-Use in the 21st Century – Panel Discussion EA015
11:45 AM – 12:00 PM Networking Break
12:05 PM – 1:05 PM Applied Research Innovation in a Tariff landscape – Panel Discussion EA015
1:05 PM – 1:25 PM Award Announcements EA015
1:25 PM – 1:35 PM Closing Keynote EA015
1:35 PM – 3:00 PM Lunch
2:15 PM – 3:00 PM Tours
Registrations Now Closed

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Mohawk Alumni

Logo, Mohawk College Alumni.
Presenting Sponsor

Invest in Hamilton

Logo, Invest in Hamilton.
Panel Sponsor

Download the Ideas to Impact 2026 Agenda