Hunter Hub ramps up 2025 e2i program with three new micro-credential courses

The Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking is thrilled to announce the launch of this year’s Evolve to Innovate (e2i) program, now with enhancements designed to empower researchers and innovators from all disciplines. For the first time, the program will be run by the Hunter Hub, marking a new chapter for the e2i program.

e2i has always been a cornerstone for equipping researchers with the tools to bridge the gap between research and impact beyond academia. Originally supported by Innovate Calgary and the Office of the Vice-President Research, e2i has become a transformative experience for UCalgary researchers, thanks to their vision and commitment. The Hunter Hub is proud to build on this strong foundation and continue expanding the program’s impact.

Key changes for 2025

The new program introduces several exciting updates, with a focus on three new modules: Communicating Beyond Academia, Problem-Driven Innovations, and Innovation Beyond Academia. Participants will now have the opportunity to earn three unique Taylor Institute micro-credentials, certifying their skills in these three areas. “Throughout the program, you’ll have the opportunity to earn these micro-credentials, which will allow you to better communicate your research, develop innovative solutions, and plan for next steps,” says Kurt White, e2i program lead.

In addition, participants will gain access to mentorship opportunities and resources tailored to their specific needs. The program will also continue its tradition of fostering transdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that innovation is driven by diverse perspectives. To further support participants, the program offers up to $6,000 in cash awards to those who complete it.

Perspectives from the e2i community

Jeff Ryzner, a longtime e2i mentor, highlights the value of the program’s diversity: “The greatest thing someone could take away from a program like e2i, beyond the immediate networking of amazing people in your cohort, would be the processes and tools that allow you to make smart decisions every step of the way. The diversity of the cohort — people from different backgrounds, cultures, and faculties — makes us all stronger.”

For participants like Dr. Sara H. Tamrin, PhD, the e2i program has been a pivotal step in bridging the gap between research and impact. “What motivated me to join e2i was the gap I realized in my research. I needed to understand the needs of customers, commercialization, and developing a business mindset,” Tamrin says. “Through this program, I had access to resources to develop these skills. The mentors and peers provided invaluable support, helping me navigate IP processes and commercialization — and now we’re successfully filing patents.”

A program for all innovators

The e2i program underscores that innovation is not limited to STEM fields. Whether you’re exploring creative arts, social sciences, engineering, or medicine, e2i provides the tools to translate research into solutions that benefit the world.

Join the 2025 e2i cohort

Are you ready to explore what an innovation path looks like for your research? Applications for the 2025 e2i program are now open until Jan. 7, 2025. Visit the Hunter Hub e2i Program page to learn more about this transformative opportunity.