The annual Innovative Generation Challenge (iGen) looks to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit in Central Okanagan high school students.

This year marks the 32nd anniversary of the business plan pitching competition that fosters innovation and business acumen in students.

This year, the iGen Competition reaches new heights, with more than 400 students participating from 17 different high school classes across all five Central Okanagan public secondary schools.

The students hope their startups and accompanying pitches will secure them a spot in the iGen Finale, where they will compete for over $15,000 in cash prizes.

The 2025 iGen Finale will take place downtown at the Innovation Centre (460 Doyle Ave.) at 5 p.m., Tuesday, June 10

iGen's mission is to cultivate the next generation of entrepreneurs and keep the Central Okanagan the best place for entrepreneurship in all of Canada.

Partnerships with local entrepreneurs, small businesses, community organizations, and larger national and international corporations create a dynamic ecosystem where Kelowna's youth can thrive, build essential 21st-century skills, and turn their innovative ideas into reality.

Thanks to the many sponsors, students receive valuable mentorship, real-world business experience, and the confidence to pursue entrepreneurial ventures.

Support and engagement from the community and businesses remain essential to fostering youth-driven entrepreneurship.

This year's event sponsors include: 

Platinum Sponsors:

• Accelerate Okanagan

• Central Okanagan Development Commission (COEDC) & Okanagan College (OC)

• Fifth Avenue Properties

• Vantage West Realty

  Gold Sponsors:

  • ÎÚÑ»´«Ã½¢ KF Aerospace Centre for Excellence

  • MNP Silver Sponsors:

    • College of Arts & Technology

    • Doek-Shirreff Law Firm

    • ETSI-BC

    • Rotary Club of Kelowna Ogopogo