Do you know someone who has ever looked at a piece of technology and said, 鈥淚 can do better!鈥� and then gone out and done it?

Or how about the creative thinker who saw a problem and came up with the sort of solution that makes you wonder, 鈥淲hy didn鈥檛 I think of that?鈥�

The Mid-Island Science Technology and Innovation Council (MISTIC) wants to hear about them. Nominations are open for the seventh annual MISTIC Innovation Awards, which recognize the achievements of technology-based businesses and individuals across Vancouver Island (north of the Malahat), the Sunshine Coast and Gulf Islands.

鈥淭he region is a natural hub for innovation and a great place to start and grow a technology business,鈥� says MISTIC executive director Paris Gaudet. 鈥淭he region鈥檚 science and technology sector continues to grow, innovate and change the economic landscape.

"It is up to all of us to ensure that everyone knows about the diverse opportunities available to our youth and the significant impact our sector has on the regional economy. The awards are about recognizing the amazing and innovative work happening in our communities.鈥�

This year鈥檚 awards will acknowledge Island innovators in seven categories:

鈥� Promising Pre-Commercial Innovation;

鈥� Innovative Start-Up of the Year;

鈥� Emerging Product;

鈥� Technology Leadership;

鈥� Environmental Excellence;

鈥� Young Innovator;

鈥� Excellence in Innovation.

To submit a nomination and complete awards criteria, go to www.misticawards.com.

Nominations are open until July 16.

As the region鈥檚 innovation champion, MISTIC supports promising science and technology entrepreneurs with accelerating the growth of their business.

鈥� Mid-Island Science Technology and Innovation Council