Manitoba has always been a province of bold thinkers, risk-takers, and visionaries. Now, those trailblazers will get the recognition they deserve at the inaugural DARE Innovation Awards, happening Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada.
Presented by Bell MTS and powered by North Forge, the DARE Innovation Awards will spotlight the Dreamers, Achievers, Risk-takers, and Entrepreneurs shaping Manitoba’s future.
A Celebration Years in the Making
For Joelle Foster, President & CEO of North Forge, this event marks a milestone.
“As North Forge celebrates 10 years of supporting bold ideas, it feels fitting to launch the DARE Innovation Awards,” said Foster. “This event isn’t just about the start-ups and businesses we’ve worked with. It’s about all Manitobans whose ideas are pushing boundaries.”
The gala will feature a plated dinner and bring together innovators, business leaders, and community builders for a night of inspiration and recognition.
Dana Driedger, Chair of the DARE Innovation Awards and Director of Marketing & Strategic Initiatives at North Forge, says the event will bridge Manitoba’s innovation history with its future.
“These awards are about shining a light on the people whose ideas are changing how we live, work, and connect. Innovation isn’t confined to one industry — it’s a mindset that fuels progress across Manitoba.” said Driedger. “The DARE Awards will honour those who are shaping our province’s future while paying tribute to the trailblazers who laid the foundation before them.”
Nine Categories of Innovation
From cutting-edge technology to cultural creativity, the awards cover Manitoba’s diverse innovation landscape:
Shortlists of three finalists per category will be announced in January 2026.
Powered by North Forge
North Forge is Manitoba’s largest non-profit business incubator, supporting over 590 start-ups since mid-2020 through mentorship, investment, and its world-class FabLab. But the awards are designed to be bigger than one organization.
How to Get Involved
Do you know someone daring enough to change the game? Nominations are now open at dareinnovationawards.com.
Winners will be revealed at the February gala, a night to shine a spotlight on the province’s boldest ideas and the people behind them.
👉 Nominate today and help us celebrate the innovators building Manitoba’s future.
