
Impact Challenge
Our week-long Impact Challenge
invites students to tackle real-world business problems with the support of experienced professionals in the impact sector.
Company leaders share their business context and a specific impact-related challenge directly with participants, who then compete in teams to develop and pitch thoughtful solutions with guidance from mentors with relevant expertise. This initiative helps students gain insight into dynamic businesses in the impact sector while building problem-solving skills and growing their professional networks. Finalists pitch their ideas to an experienced panel, including the company leaders.
“It’s not just about solving a case—it’s about understanding the values and mission of purpose-driven businesses and coming up with ideas that align with their goals. What stood out to me the most was the direct involvement of KOTN’s leaders, who shared their insights and gave us a deeper understanding of the challenges they face. It made the experience feel incredibly authentic and relevant. ”
Sia Aggarwal
G&W x Kotn 2024 Impact Challenge Winning Team Member
Current BA student at the University of Toronto
Applications will open soon.
STAY TUNED!
Details
Current post-secondary students from any academic discipline, excluding MBA
ELIGIBILITY
DATES
November 8-15, 2025
LOCATION
Toronto, Canada
Frequently asked questions
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Yes, we receive applications from both teams (4-5 people) or individuals. Successful individual applicants will be assigned to a team of 4-5 people.
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No, we encourage an interdisciplinary approach when solving the case challenge. Hence, we welcome students from all academic disciplines and particularly encourage applications from students with non-business backgrounds or with more limited experience participating in business case challenges.
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No, we encourage students who are new to case competitions to apply. We will provide resources to support students who have never solved a business problem before.
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No, we welcome students from any post-secondary institution across Canada!
However, you will need to be in Toronto on the final day of the competition, which is in-person only. Participants are responsible for planning for, and covering travel and accommodation. If travel or accommodation expenses are a barrier to participation, please indicate so in your application in the question related to accessibility needs. -
Yes, you will need to be in Toronto on the final day of the competition, which is in-person only. Participants are responsible for planning for, and covering travel and accommodation. If travel or accommodation expenses are a barrier to participation, please indicate so in your application in the question related to accessibility needs.
However, the kick-off event (a week before) will be virtual. -
No, all participants must be available to attend each event in its entirety.
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Yes, we welcome applications from students currently enrolled in college, undergraduate, and non-MBA master’s programs.
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Unfortunately, the challenge is only open to current students.