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Smith National MBA Case Competition

Shaping Canada’s Future, One Idea at a Time

Brochure (PDF 2MB)

The 2026 Case Challenge

The National Trade Corridor: Canada’s Next Economic Engine

Canada is at a turning point: facing economic uncertainty, technological disruption and growing social divides. As trust erodes and citizens question their future here, one critical question emerges:

“How can individuals and businesses contribute to building a more prosperous, livable and united Canada?”

Each year’s case will explore a key area of national impact, selected from topics such as economic growth, national competitiveness, healthcare improvements, social cohesion or talent retention. Your solution should reflect bold innovation and integrated thinking that drive real change.

This year’s challenge focuses on rewiring Canada’s trade corridors, asking participants to redesign critical infrastructure systems to enhance supply-chain reliability, trade diversification, and national resilience. Students will develop integrated solutions spanning infrastructure investment, operational reform, and data-sharing strategies to improve corridor performance and national productivity.

Sponsors and Partners

Become a 2026 sponsor!

Join us in creating an unforgettable case competition experience for students from across the country. As a sponsor, your organization will have the opportunity to connect with top MBA talent, build brand visibility, and support the next generation of business leaders.

We are excited to partner with organizations that share our commitment to innovation, leadership, and meaningful impact.

Sponsorship Package (PDF 1.9MB)
Deloitte logo

With roots here going back over a century, Deloitte is the largest Canadian-owned and operated professional services firm in the country.

Waterfront view at Holiday Inn Kingston

Hotel Partner

Holiday Inn Kingston-Waterfront by IHG

  • 30 double occupancy rooms
  • 6 single occupancy rooms
  • Includes breakfast and parking

Rate includes breakfast for 2 people in double occupancy rooms and breakfast for 1 in single occupancy rooms.

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Who can I contact for questions?

You can contact the organizing team at mbacasecomp@queensu.ca.

When will details for the 2026 competition be released?

Additional details for the 2026 competition will be released in the coming months.

What will the theme of the 2026 case be?

The 2026 case will focus on a major national infrastructure challenge within Canada’s trade corridor network.

Can I access the 2026 case package?

No. Teams will receive the case package upon arrival and will be given a defined time period to develop their solution.

How can schools or sponsors get involved for 2026?

Schools and organizations interested in partnering with or supporting the 2026 competition can contact us at mbacasecomp@queensu.ca.

Is registration open?

Registration for the 2026 competition opens July 1, 2026.

2025 Event Highlights

Thank you to all the students, sponsors, judges, and partners who made the 2025 competition an outstanding success. Explore event highlights, winning presentations, photos, and the official case package below.

A Landmark Year Focused on Canada’s Arctic Future

The 2025 competition challenged MBA students from across Canada to develop a long-term national strategy for the Canadian Arctic. Teams tackled urgent and interconnected issues including sovereignty, infrastructure, climate change, Indigenous partnership, critical minerals, and global trade.

The case centered on one essential question for Canada’s future: how to transform the Arctic Northwest Passage into a strategic national asset while ensuring sustainable development and strong collaboration with Northern and Indigenous communities.

Key Highlights

  1. 14 teams, from schools such as Rotman, Smith, Ivey, Degroote, Mcgill, Schulich, Telfer
  2. More than 10 sponsoring organizations
  3. $10,000 awarded in prizes
  4. Job interviews at Deloitte Canada for all members of the winning team
 

Winners and Finalists

Congratulations to our 2025 Winners!

First Place

The Big Four, Rotman School of Management

Alex Chang, Julia Belza, Marshall Deng, and Kathryn Morse

Download the winning presentation (PDF 1.8MB)

Second Place

The Fantastic Fourcasters, Rotman School of Management

Rachael Brimacombe, Haider Kamal, Dhavani Shah, Liam O’Brien

Third Place

True North Consulting, Desautels Faculty of Management at McGill University

Kevin Liu, Valentina Sanchez, Kellan Rankin, Rutger Boelen