ABOUT US
At the Innovation Hub, we design with and for students.
WELCOME TO THE INNOVATION HUB
We’re a student-driven research collective built to improve the U of T student experience. Working with real design challenges from campus partners, our interdisciplinary teams use a consulting model to solve problems that matter. We employ students from all programs and backgrounds, and our projects range in scope from designing campus spaces and services to policy evaluation, ideating for the future, and more.
ANNUAL REPORTS
PEER-TO-PEER DESIGN THINKING
Student experiences are best understood by students. Our peer-to-peer approach ensures students who share their stories with us have a great experience, while giving our team of student employees great hands-on experience with design thinking. We’ve built trust with students over the years through our commitment to participatory design and ethical and equity-centred design research practices.
IMPROVE CAMPUS LIFE
Through our research, we gather insights on the way people are impacted by programs, services, spaces, and other challenges at the university. We elevate student voices to better understand their needs and improve campus life.
MISSION
To improve campus life through student-centric design
VISION
A campus experience designed for every student to flourish academically, socially, and personally
OUR VALUES
Accessibility By Design
Equity, Diversity,
and Inclusion
Inspire with
Meaningful Data
Listen to Student
Experiences
Learn Together
DOMAINS OF INNOVATION
Five domains underlie our projects. No matter what issue we’re working on, at least one of these areas drives student growth. We co-created these domains with students, staff, and faculty, and we’re working towards a university where these domain goals come true for every student.
We aspire for Access for Every Student where all students have equitable access to programs, services, resources, and spaces. We want to be Fostering Connectedness where students experience a sense of belonging and connection within the UofT community. We hope for Future-Ready Students with opportunities to develop their skills and build their confidence beyond academics. An Integrated Learning Experience allows students to engage fully in learning experiences both within and outside of the classroom. Finally, through Whole Student Development, students receive the support they need for their holistic well-being (physical, psychological, social and emotional).
INNOVATION HUB STORY
Since the launch of the Innovation Hub, we’ve provided valuable insights to guide partner projects at many departments and divisions at U of T. Having delivered countless new programs for students and staff who want to gain hands-on experience in design thinking, we’ve greatly expanded the impact of our student-centred approach.
2016: The Innovation Hub Launches
The Innovation Hub begins—250+ community members came together to support our launch and imagine future possibilities for the Innovation Hub.
2021: A Hub for Innovation
We opened our space in the Student Commons Building at 230 College Street. A space for innovation, collaboration and connection, and to inspire further change with students.
2024 and beyond
We continue to navigate our work through student consultation sessions, co-design projects, community events, and more. We can’t wait for you to be a part of this journey!