Interac U-Innovate Challenge
Interac U-Innovate Challenge
Imagine the future of commerce powered by intelligent systems, where payments are seamless, secure and designed around real human needs.
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Challenge Details
Challenge Statement
How might we design a future where Agentic AI enables payment experiences that feel effortless, trustworthy, and truly empowering?
- What new forms of commerce could emerge if Agentic AI could autonomously negotiate, budget, and transact on our behalf?
- In what ways could Agentic AI transform how we navigate group payments, such as splitting bills, managing subscriptions, or coordinating shared expenses?
- What new possibilities could emerge if Agentic AI personalized payment experiences based on our values, goals, and lifestyle choices?
Register and submit your solution by January 18, 2026, for a chance to win cash prizes and interview opportunities for the possibility of an Interac internship! See details on the Eligibility and Rules page.
PHASE 1: Registration and Online Submission
November 28, 2025 – January 18, 2026
Create or join a team of 2-4 post-secondary students to get started (see eligibility requirements). During this phase, teams will build and develop their concept. We will be hosting an information session and webinar to help you – more details to follow.
The deliverable for this phase is a 5-minute video presentation demonstrating your solution, the technology behind it, as well as the market it is serving (refer to evaluation criteria). All submissions (English or French) should be uploaded to the platform by 11:59 PM (ET) on January 18, 2026.
All submissions will be reviewed by a Judging Panel, composed of Interac employees, and TECHNATION employees/associates, between January 19-22, 2026. Up to seven teams (“Finalist Teams”) will be selected to advance to the finals and present at the Final Pitch event. The Finalist Teams will receive notification on the evening of January 22, 2026.
PHASE 2: The Final Pitch (in-person)
Date: Wednesday, February 4, 2026 from 11:30am – 4:00pm
Location: Design Exchange in Toronto, Ontario
Between January 22 and February 4, the Finalist Teams will have time to refine their solution/prototype and prepare a 10-minute presentation, followed by a 5 minute question period from the Judging Panel. The finalist teams will pitch their solutions to the Judging Panel at a live in-person event on February 4, 2026. If your team is selected as a Finalist Team, all team members must be available to present at the Final Pitch event.
All participants (including those from Phase 1) are invited to attend the Final Pitch event – come network with Interac representatives, alumni, and fellow students. Lunch will be provided.
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