Deadline: 15-Mar-2026
Falling Walls Lab is hosting a pitch competition in Manitoba, inviting innovators and researchers to present breakthrough ideas in science and society in just three minutes. Participants must be at least 18 years old, meet formal academic criteria, and apply individually in English. The competition provides a platform to engage with a global innovation community, though travel and accommodation are generally not covered.
Overview of Falling Walls Lab
Falling Walls Lab is a global platform for research and innovation, focusing on breaking walls in science, technology, and society. Unlike a grant program, it is a pitch competition where participants present ideas that aim to:
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Address scientific, social, or technological challenges
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Demonstrate innovative thinking
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Showcase potential impact on communities or industries
The competition emphasizes clear, concise communication, with three-minute presentations that highlight the problem, solution, and the “wall” the participant seeks to break.
Eligibility Criteria
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Age requirement: Minimum 18 years at submission
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Academic requirement: Must meet at least one of the following:
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Current university enrollment
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Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, or equivalent medical degree obtained within the specified eligibility period
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Global diversity: Academic qualifications from any recognized institution are accepted
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Individual applications only: Group applications are not allowed
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First-time participation: Previous Falling Walls Lab participants are ineligible
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Language: All applications must be submitted in English
Competition Format
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Presentation duration: 3 minutes per participant
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Focus: Clearly describe your breakthrough idea and the “wall” it seeks to break
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Platform: Participants present to a panel of experts and peers, gaining exposure to a global academic and innovation-focused community
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Application submission: Through the Falling Walls Lab website closest to the participant
What’s Covered
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Travel and accommodation expenses are generally not included
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Any exceptions are explicitly stated by local organisers
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Participation does not require purchase of a ticket
How to Apply
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
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Confirm age and academic qualifications
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Ensure you have not participated in Falling Walls Lab before
Step 2: Prepare Your Pitch
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Focus on a breakthrough idea with scientific, societal, or technological impact
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Clearly define which “wall” you aim to break
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Prepare a concise 3-minute presentation
Step 3: Submit Application
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Apply individually through the local Falling Walls Lab website
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Complete all required forms and upload supporting documents in English
Step 4: Participate in the Event
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Shortlisted candidates present their ideas in person or online, depending on the event format
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Gain feedback and network with experts and peers
Expected Outcomes
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Present your idea on an international platform
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Gain visibility among researchers, innovators, and industry professionals
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Receive feedback and networking opportunities to further develop your idea
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Potentially advance to global Falling Walls events based on local performance
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Submitting multiple applications (only one allowed)
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Missing age or academic eligibility requirements
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Failing to submit in English
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Exceeding the 3-minute time limit
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Applying as part of a group or team
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can participate?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and meet a formal academic requirement (current enrollment or completed degree).
2. Can I apply with a team?
No, individual applications only. Group applications are not allowed.
3. Are travel or accommodation expenses covered?
Generally no, unless explicitly stated by local organisers.
4. How long is the presentation?
Each pitch must be 3 minutes, highlighting the problem, solution, and wall to break.
5. Can I participate again if I have applied before?
No, previous Falling Walls Lab participants are ineligible.
6. Is there an application fee?
No, participation does not require purchase of a ticket.
7. What is the application language?
All applications must be submitted in English.
Conclusion
Falling Walls Lab Manitoba provides a unique opportunity for innovators and researchers to pitch breakthrough ideas in science and society. The competition emphasizes concise communication, measurable impact, and individual participation, offering a platform to connect with a global network of experts and peers. Applicants are encouraged to submit their ideas before the stated deadlines to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime innovation opportunity.
For more information, visit Falling Walls Foundation.
