NAT is where emerging tech meets fearless problem-solving.

The Network for Applied Technology (NAT) is a nonprofit that fosters interdisciplinary learning and innovation in emerging technology through workshops, competitions, and community initiatives.

Students collaborating on electronics project with circuits and wires on a table.
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Join us for natIgnite 2026!

In this 40-hour competition, teams of students and recent graduates will work alongside community partners to design, build, and pitch solutions in accessibility. Applications close April 17. Early application is recommended as spots are limited.

May 8–10 | Donadeo Innovation Centre for Engineering 8th Floor, University of Alberta

Learn more

We believe innovation should be for everyone.

Old systems don’t prepare people to solve new problems. That’s why we’re putting the tools for real-world problem-solving directly into the hands of the next generation.

Our mission

Explore Our Programs

  • 👥 1,750+ participants

    Our programs are consistently rated highly by hundreds of participants each year.

  • 💬 4/5 participant rating

    Our community spans students, researchers, and professionals from across Canada and beyond.

  • 🧠 95% learned something new

    Hands-on learning works. We help people gain practical skills and real-world experience.

  • 🛠️ 136+ working prototypes

    Every prototype solves a real problem, from mental health to mobility to aging.

  • 🚀 19 active projects

    Projects launched at NAT continue as startups, academic research, and community initiatives.

Get Involved

  • Students working on an electronics project with a circuit board and wires in a classroom or lab setting.

    Donate

    Your support creates opportunities for young innovators to solve real-world problems.

    Donate now
  • Volunteers

    Volunteer

    Gain hands-on experience, build your skills, and make friends!

    Become a volunteer

  • Partner with us

    Support the next generation of innovators while benefiting your organization.

    Become a partner

  • “I learned more about BCI and neuroscience than my courses would teach and met ambitious, knowledgeable competitors.”

    Hackathon Participant

  • “natHacks has given me knowledge, friends, academic opportunities, deeper passion for BCI technologies, and irreplaceable experience.”

    Hackathon Participant

  • “I had a really great time creating something cool with my teammates. The choice of food was good and the hackathon was well run.”

    Hackathon Participant

  • “There were many mentors and workshops, a lot of learning, and a lot of socializing. The participants were friendly and the event was fun.”

    Hackathon Participant

  • “All the volunteers and mentors were extremely supportive and the overall environment was great.”

    Hackathon Participant

  • “It was an interesting experience. I learnt so much using the hardware and software—it's a hackathon after all."

    Hackathon Participant

  • “The interactivity with asking questions made learning new concepts very easy. I feel like I’ve learned a lot. The instructors are very knowledgable in the subjects they’re lecturing about.”

    Workshop Participant

  • “It was great! I leaned new stuff, met a great team, and socialized in some sessions during the educational sprint.”

    Hackathon Participant

A huge thank you to our amazing partners.

Our partners share our commitment to empowering the next generation of innovators. Their support makes our work possible.

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Two people working on laptops displaying code in a room with others working in the background.
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