Map the System UBCO

Map the System is a unique opportunity to learn more about a social or environmental issue you care about. It is a challenge where you are asked to map out the problem & landscape of current solutions, then identify gaps and missing opportunities for positive change.

This is NOT a traditional business plan competition!

Map the System is program offered by the Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, with partner institutions around the world each running their own competition.

Registration

Student registration is now open! Register between now and January 31, 2026

What you need to register:

  1. Fill out online registration form
  2. Submit your proposed topic
  3. List all team members

To register: www.mapthesystem.ca/take-part

Selecting Your Topic

Start with what you are passionate about. The problem focus can be local or global. Consider your access to knowledge on the subject.

Examples from previous years:

● Affordable housing

● The Canadian charity system

● Menstrual inequality

● Gentrification

● Youth homelessness

● Flooding.

Check out past competition submissions and list of resources at www.mapthesystem.ca/resources

Map the System UBCO Finals

In May of 2026, a campus wide event and competition will take place with cash prizes for the best teams:

1st Prize – $500 cash prize

2nd Prize – $300 cash prize

3rd Prize – $200 cash prize

The 1st place winning team will be invited to attend the global finals.

Map the System Global Final

The Global Final will take place on July 9 – 12, 2026 in Oxford England

● All campus finalists teams will compete at the global semi-final event

● The top teams will compete in the final for prize monies:

1st Prize – £5,000 cash prize

2nd Prize – £4,000 cash prize

3rd Prize – £3,500 cash prize

Frequently Asked Questions

If I register as an individual, can I join a team later?

Yes. As long as you are registered before the January 31st deadline, you can join a registered team, or form a new team with other registered individuals.

If I registered with a team, do I have to stay with the same team throughout the competition?

No. You are able to change teams up until you submit your package by the April deadline.

Do I have to stick with the idea I registered with?

No. You are able to change your idea throughout the competition up until you submit your package.

Map the System UBCO is organized by Dr. Alon Eisenstein, Associate Professor of Teaching, at the School of Engineering.

For any questions or requests, please email alon.eisenstein@ubc.ca