Dias Learning Wins Prestigious 2025 Innovation Award

We are proud to celebrate John Dias, founder and CEO of Dias Learning Interactive Ltd., who has been awarded the 2025 Innovation Award at OISE’s Leaders & Legends Awards. This prestigious global recognition highlights John’s groundbreaking work in educational technology and his ongoing contributions to bridging gaps in learning through innovation.

John’s journey as a founder began with U of T Entrepreneurship, including his involvement with UTM’s ICUBE and the Institute for Management & Innovation (IMI). These incubator experiences provided mentorship, community, and resources that supported the early development of Dias Learning. Today, the venture stands as an inspiring example of how entrepreneurial support at U of T can help transform ideas into impactful global solutions.

Founded in 2020, Dias Learning develops accessible and interactive educational tools to empower learners, educators, and institutions. Their work focuses on digital learning platforms, multilingual content, and community-driven innovation that make education more engaging and equitable. By combining research with technology, Dias Learning aims to reimagine classrooms and expand opportunities for diverse learners across the globe.

Reflecting on this milestone, John shared his gratitude for the ecosystem that shaped his path: “I made sure to thank U of T Entrepreneurship, the SICIEEIL, and of course UTM’s ICUBE. This award represents not only my own work, but also the incredible guidance, mentorship, and community that helped Dias Learning grow.”

Dias Learning continues to push boundaries in interactive education, and this award marks an important step forward in its mission to make innovative learning accessible for all.

Congratulations to John Dias and Dias Learning on this achievement. We can’t wait to see what comes next!

📖 Find out more about Dias Learning Here

Ideation Lab W'26 Schedule

Date
Time
Topic
Saturday, Jan 24
9:30am to 4:30pm
(in-person bootcamp)
Welcome + Orientation, 15 Traits of an Entrepreneur, Human-Centered Design, Market Research
Wednesday, Jan 28
5:30pm to 7:30pm
(in-person)
De-Mystifying Early-Stage Financing For Researchers: VC vs Angels
Wednesday, Feb 04
5:30pm to 7:30pm
(virtual)
Legal Session (Ask Me Anything with SLC Law)
Wednesday, Feb 11
5:30pm to 7:30pm
(virtual)
Branding Workshop
Wednesday, Feb 18
Break
Wednesday, Feb 25
5:30pm to 7:30pm
(virtual)
Grants, Loans, and Subsidies 
Wednesday, Mar 04
5:30pm to 7:30pm
(in-person)
Pitch with a Twist
Wednesday, Mar 11
5:30pm to 7:30pm
(virtual)
Sales Workshop
Wednesday, Mar 18
5:30pm to 7:30pm
(virtual)
Accounting Ask Me Anything
Wednesday, Apr 01
5:30pm to 7:30pm
(virtual)
Storytelling & How to Pitch

Indigenous business training program created by RedBird Circle Inc. in partnership with UofT Libraries, ICUBE UTM and The Bridge at UTSC

An experiential learning program that follows the school 3 semesters schedule, for anyone with a great idea who wants to make it happen.

A boutique-style remote program to support your business development and help you grow through one-on-one support. This program is open all year.

A student-led creative studio with intends to serve the prototyping and design needs of our ventures and small businesses in our community.

This 2-day retreat is designed to help you reflect on your journey, what drives you, all the hats you wear and what is next for you and your social enterprise.