During the Ocean of Data Challenge, participants will dive into data at their own pace, showcase their skills, and compete for cash prizes! The challenge is divided into three streams: On the Water, In the Water, and Around the Water. Participants will select a stream and develop a solution to transform ocean data into an impactful narrative. Each stream highlights different data types, inspiring creative science communication and storytelling approaches.

Challenge Stream #1 Theme: On the Water

Fishing, transportation, tourism, and recreation rely on stable ocean conditions, but rising sea levels, unpredictable weather, and stronger storms disrupt these industries. In Canada, shifting fish stocks impact commercial and Indigenous fisheries, while extreme weather threatens ports, shipping routes, and coastal tourism. Recreational activities like boating, fishing, and surfing face increased safety risks and reduced accessibility due to stronger storms, changing wave patterns, and shifting marine ecosystems.

Challenge Stream #2 Theme: In the Water

Rising ocean temperatures, increasing acidity, and declining oxygen levels alter marine environments, influence ocean currents, threaten biodiversity, and disrupt food webs. These changes impact nutrient availability and water conditions, which influence marine species’ growth, development, and reproduction. As habitats shift, many species are forced to migrate to new areas. Pollution and habitat degradation add further stress, compounding these effects and weakening long-term ocean health and ecosystem resilience.

Challenge Stream #3 Theme: Around the Water

Coastal and marine-dependent communities in Canada face economic shifts, infrastructure damage, and cultural disruptions as changing ocean conditions affect traditional ways of life. Rising sea levels and extreme weather events force relocation while declining marine resources threaten livelihoods tied to fishing and tourism. Cultural identities and heritage sites linked to the ocean are increasingly at risk, reshaping social and economic structures.

Who should participate ?

Great ideas often emerge from diverse perspectives, so we encourage students from all disciplines to participate – whether that be computer science, engineering, biology, sustainability, business, or any other program! Participants must be current students (full-time or part-time) or recent graduates (within the past 12 months) of a post-secondary institution in Canada. You can work solo or collaborate with a team of up to five members. Please make sure to review the Official Rules below.

The Rules