David Carter, CEO of Innovation Factory, giving a speech at the annual Synapse Life Science Pitch Competition 2024. English text reads "Applications open for the 12th annual Synapse Life Science Competition".

Applications now open for the 12th annual Synapse Life Science Pitch Competition

HALTON & HAMILTON, ON – October 1, 2024 – Following the success of the recent LiONS LAIR pitch competition and gala, attended by over 400 attendees, Innovation Factory is pleased to announce applications for the 12th annual Synapse Life Science Pitch Competition are now open and will be accepted until November 10th, 2024.

The Synapse Pitch Competition is the premier life sciences pitch competition in Ontario, acting as a launchpad for innovators creating solutions in biotechnology, medical technology, pharmaceuticals, digital health, and other life science and health tech sectors. 

In the months ahead, the start-up finalists will be paired with post-secondary students giving them the unique opportunity to collaborate with each other to push their innovations forward. The finalists will also benefit from training, mentorship, and financial support to help them enhance their business plans and investor pitches. 

At the final competition in March 2025, the finalists will showcase their products or services and compete for cash and in-kind prizes. 

“The Synapse Competition has been instrumental in driving innovation within the life science sector. It not only highlights the incredible talent and creativity in our community but also fosters collaboration that leads to transformative solutions,” said David Carter, CEO of Innovation Factory. “As we embark on our twelfth year, we are excited to see the fresh ideas that will emerge and continue to shape the future of health and life science technology.”

The Synapse Competition remains committed to commercializing innovative ideas and assisting life science start-ups on their path to success. Since its inception in 2013, the competition has supported over 130 start-ups and awarded more than $1 million in prizes and resources through its partnerships. Past participating companies have collectively secured over $1 million in funding since the competition. 

We encourage innovators and students to apply to access support and help shape the next chapter of life science innovation in the region.

For more details and to apply for the 12th annual Synapse Competition, please visit synapselifescience.com ↗

About Innovation Factory

Innovation Factory is a not-for-profit business accelerator, serving as the catalyst for technology innovation in the Brant, Halton, Hamilton and Norfolk regions since 2010. Innovation Factory provides business services, training, mentorship, and strategic connections to drive market adoption, leverage intellectual property, and increase revenues, investment, and jobs. Innovators can also access sector-specific resources including exclusive smart transportation test environments and data; and a formal life science and health innovation ecosystem.
www.innovationfactory.ca

Share this article
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
WhatsApp
Email
View All Categories

Featured iF Clients

Join Innovation Factory's Annual Open House - The Big DiF!

Network with 300+ industry professionals, discover emerging solutions from our innovators, and celebrate entrepreneurship within the Hamilton-Halton ecosystem.

May 14, 2026 | 4:00pm – 8:00pm | Hamilton, Ontario

Our website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience. Learn more about the policy

Attend HERhalton Women in Business Breakfast

Support and celebrate the achievements of women in business and entrepreneurship. HERhalton by Innovation Factory is the region’s go-to networking event for advocates of women entrepreneurs and features engaging guest speakers to inspire and drive engaging conversation.

Expand your network and connect with the region’s influencers and innovators in the world of women in business

June 4, 2026 | 8:00am – 12:00pm EDT

Meet the top 10 finalists, and watch as they pitch their innovations live to a panel of investors and experts for cash prizes at the 16th LiONS LAIR!

Celebrate the 16th anniversary of the LiONS LAIR pitch competition!

Since 2011, we’ve helped over 170 startups launch and scale their businesses. This fall, network with 350+ entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders at a milestone evening where community, growth & collaboration meet innovation.

Meet the top 10 finalists, and watch as they pitch their innovations live to a panel of investors and experts for cash prizes!

When: September 24, 2026 | 5:00pm – 9:00pm 

Where: Oakville Banquet & Conference Centre |
2515 Wyecroft Rd, Oakville, ON L6L 6P8