GenAI Genesis 2026 is positioned as Canada's largest AI hackathon, designed to bring together builders to develop AI-powered solutions for real-world challenges. The event provides a platform for participants, from first-time hackers to seasoned developers, to collaborate with mentors, engineers, and industry leaders over an intensive weekend of building, learning, and launching projects. The program's mission is to empower the next generation of innovators to use AI collaboratively, responsibly, and at scale by connecting them with world-class resources and tools.
Program Overview
• Objective: To transform bold ideas into real-world impact by designing and deploying AI-powered solutions that solve meaningful problems.
• Target Audience: A global community of builders, including students and developers. The event is open to both first-time hackers and seasoned developers.
• Format: An intense weekend event featuring building sessions, tech talks, technical workshops, and networking sessions with top mentors, engineers, and industry leaders.
Industry Context and Past Performance
• Market Significance: AI is projected to contribute $15 trillion to the global economy by 2030 (PwC), with 78% of organizations using it in at least one business function (McKinsey). The event is situated in Toronto, recognized as the #3 tech talent market in North America and home to the 4th-largest AI talent pool globally (CBRE).
• Previous Event Statistics: The last event featured over 600 hackers selected from more than 2,200 applicants, representing 100+ universities across 25+ countries. This resulted in the creation of over 160 AI projects and recognized over 20 winning teams.
Event Timeline
• Registrations Open: January 28th
• Registration Period: January 28th - February 28th
• Registrations Close: February 28th
• Acceptance Notifications: Issued on a rolling basis.
• Hackathon Day 1 (Opening Ceremony): March 13th
• Hackathon Day 2 (Workshops & Networking): March 14th
• Hackathon Day 3 (Closing Ceremony): March 15th
Featured Past Projects
• ThoughtMirror (Best Generative AI Technology Hack): An AI-powered journaling companion that detects cognitive distortions in real time and provides therapist-inspired feedback to help users reframe negative thought patterns.
• imagEHR (Google & HBSU Best Healthcare AI Hack): Utilizes AI inference to automate the extraction and mapping of multi-modal clinical data to CDISC-compliant SDTM formats for streamlined research, trials, and regulatory use.
• Summa (PwC Best Finance AI Hack): An AI-powered investor matchmaking platform using NLP and startup data to connect founders with investors based on true fit, aiming to make fundraising faster and more human.
Application and Participation Information
• Eligibility: Anyone passionate about AI can apply, regardless of skill level or prior experience.
• AI Experience: No prior AI experience is required. Some programming knowledge is helpful, but not mandatory.
• Team Formation: Individual registration is allowed and team matching is available, or teams may register directly (all members must register).
• Event Format: Attendance is either in person at the University of Toronto St. George Campus or virtual (one option only).
GenAI Genesis offers a focused opportunity for aspiring builders and innovators to engage with cutting-edge AI technology and contribute to developing solutions that address significant global challenges.