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.
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 Cash Prizes
- Submit your written submission materials.
- If chosen, compete at the University of Waterloo Campus Final for a chance to win a cash 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
Winners of the 2025 Map the System Campus Finals
1st place: Gabriel Jabile
The team representing UWaterloo at the Canadian finals and recipient of a $2,000 award sponsored by Kindred Credit Union explored: Livestock Disease Outbreaks in Uganda.
2nd place: Femi Adedayo, Mya Nantambu, and Vanessa Young-Dede
The recipient of a $1,000 award sponsored by the University of Waterloo Office of Research explored: Barriers to Academic Success for Newcomer Elementary School Student in Ontario.
3rd place: Benjamin Longley and Connie Chong
The recipient of a $500 award sponsored by Waterloo Institute for Complexity and Innovation (WICI) explored: Barriers Refugees Face When Accessing Healthcare in Canada.