University case competitions

This database emerged from a research project that aimed to identify gaps in experiential learning opportunities for Canadian students in the impact and sustainable finance field. Experiential learning is defined as a learning-by-doing approach where students are given the opportunity to observe, reflect and put in practice abstract concepts in new situations to solve problems and make decisions. We researched major Canadian universities for two types of experiential learning tools: student managed investment funds (SMIFs) and business case competitions.  Business case competitions, in particular, offer powerful experiences putting students in situations where they have to solve real world problems, in team settings, within limited time and resources. They also learn to analyze information, present and defend their decisions and answer questions from experienced judges often including industry experts.  Despite the high demand for ESG and sustainability skills in the finance and investment industry, our findings about both SMIFs and business case competitions reveal a clear lack of opportunities for Canadian students to gain skills in integrating environmental and social factors in financial decisions. 

The following database shows business case competitions hosted by Canadian universities. We took special care of highlighting the sustainability- and impact-themed case challenges and include select global competitions under this thematic area that are open to Canadian students. We encourage students to focus more on the sustainability-themed challenges and explore opportunities with their home universities to increase the sustainable and impact finance  content in future case competitions. This will allow future students to develop in-demand ESG and sustainability skills currently lacking in business school curricula across the country.