SFU Beedie’s Net Impact Sustainability Challenge tackles income inequality with Coast Capital

The 12th annual SFU Beedie Net Impact Sustainability Case Competition, powered by Coast Capital Savings, brought together students from 13 schools across Canada to address income struggles. With nearly 47% of Canadians living paycheck to paycheck and one-third struggling with bills and debt, participants were challenged with the question: "What role can financial institutions play in helping to grow incomes for members, employees, and communities?”

As a Certified B Corporation, Coast Capital is committed to building better futures through accessible education, inclusive finance, and equitable employment. The competition challenged students to develop strategic and scalable solutions that align with these values.

“Each year the students benefit from a live case that tackles a real-world strategic issue related to sustainability and gain feedback from a judging team comprised of business leaders from our title sponsor’s organization,” says Net Impact faculty sponsor and SFU professor, Stephanie Bartels. “This year was no exception; we were so fortunate to partner with Coast Capital to explore how they can continue to deliver on their social purpose by helping to grow incomes.”

Following highly competitive first-round submissions, the five finalist teams presented their ideas in person at the Segal Graduate School to a panel of judges from Coast Capital. With live case presentations, networking, and an Indigenous welcome ceremony, the students were given the chance to refine their critical thinking, collaborative, and presentation skills in a corporate simulation. 

Ultimately, York University secured first place and a $5,000 prize, while the University of Victoria secured second with $2,500. HEC Montreal rounded out the top three, winning $1,500. McMaster and SFU Beedie also advanced to the finals, impressing judges with outstanding recommendations.

With meticulous preparations spanning six months, the SFU Beedie Net Impact team successfully showcased student talent while reinforcing their mission of bringing sustainability issues to the forefront of business conversations. The team's Director of Events, Sofia Mejia shares, “Our most significant contribution as the Net Impact Club is cultivating spaces for future leaders to pause, reflect, and consciously consider their impact. Even small moments of thoughtful action create meaningful change, no matter how big.”