Overview | Registration
Overview
Map the System is a global competition that uses systems thinking as a guiding approach to explore some of the most complex issues facing the world today. Map the System is run at a global level by the Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship at the Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford, and at a UWaterloo campus level by the Grebel Peace Incubator. Registration for Map the System 2026 has now closed.
What is Map the System?
Step 1: Learn more about Map the System
- Review the submission guidelines on the Map the System Canada website
- Review frequently asked questions
- Form your team of up to 5 people and pick a topic!
Step 2: Register for Map the System 2026
- Register through the Map the System 2026 Student Registration form!
Step 3: Map Your System
- Review the resources available to you
- Begin your research
- Reach out to the Campus Lead
- Map your system!
Step 4: Compete for Prizes
- Submit your written submission materials.
- If chosen, compete at the University of Waterloo Campus Final for a chance to win a prize!
- If chosen, compete at the Global Final in Oxford, UK
If you have any questions, reach out to the Map the System Campus Lead: mapthesystem@uwaterloo.ca.
Key Dates and Deadlines
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2026
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Jan
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Registration deadline
January 31, 2026
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Mar
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Research Period
February 1 - March 31, 2026
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Apr
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Submission deadline
April 1, 2026
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Campus Finals
April 7, 2026
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Jun
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Global Finals
July 9 -12, 2026
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Jan
Sponsors for Map the System Waterloo Campus Finals 2026
The overall winner will represent Waterloo at the global finals at the University of Oxford in July, thanks to the support of Kindred Credit Union. All other finalist teams will be eligible to receive a $500 “Apprenticing with the Problem” grant to continue exploring—or to take action—on their challenge, thanks to the support of MEDA and their Waterloo Network Hub, Sarona Asset Management, and the Waterloo Institute for Complexity and Innovation.
