10 Years of Innovation: The RBC Amplify program

In 2016, RBC launched a bold experiment: challenge students to tackle actual business problems using emerging technologies, design thinking and agile methodology. This experiment was the genesis of RBC Amplify, an innovation program that has since grown into one of the bank’s most impactful tech talent pipelines.

Each year, cross-functional teams of students work for 16 weeks to build and prototype solutions addressing real-world challenges faced by RBC clients and internal teams and then pitch their solutions on stage to RBC senior leaders. The program encourages students to think creatively, take risks and learn from their experiences. Amplify promotes a growth mindset, embodies an engineering culture and encourages students to push beyond their comfort zone in an innovative environment.

10 years of innovative impact

In 2025, Amplify received more than 11,122 applications for just 68 positions. The challenges tackled by students align with RBC’s most pressing business priorities and drive real innovation.

Here are just a few key highlights of the impact Amplify has delivered since its launch:
- 677 students have participated in the program
- 190 are now full-time RBCers
- 200+ patent applications have been filed

Powered by a village
What truly sets Amplify apart is the community that powers it. The T&O Early Talent Team works year-round to power the Amplify program and deliver a one-of-a-kind experience for students. Immediately after the AmpExpo retrospectives begin in August, planning is already underway for next year’s Amplify season. When selecting business cases the groups will tackle, the program team considers several factors, including feasibility for quick implementation, organizational priorities and talent needs.
 
The program team also works with more than 350 RBC colleagues who volunteer their time as team leads, mentors, sponsors and operational leads to help create the best possible experience for the students.
“We embarked on this journey because technology was advancing at an unprecedented pace, and we recognized that for a large business to truly transform, a completely new and radical approach was necessary for new tech talent. Our goal was to unleash the entrepreneurial spirit within the bank and among the young people of today, and then bring these two groups together to demonstrate that even the largest and most established entities can adapt and thrive. Through Amplify, we successfully achieved this vision.”
- Bruce Ross, Group Head, Technology & Operations

Mentorship that matters


RBC mentors are the backbone of the Amplify experience. They share their knowledge and skills, helping students grow and develop, which can be a rewarding experience.

“You get exposure to a lot of different teams, from engineering to business to design, so you really learn how to build and pitch a product from end to end…the mentorship is next level – you’re surrounded by smart, driven people who genuinely want to help you succeed. It’s intense, but incredibly rewarding!”
- Anirudh Mahesh, 2025 Amplify Developer
Additionally, mentors can gain diverse perspectives, a sense of community, and enhanced career development, while also receiving feedback and reflection from their mentees.

"Amplify has revolutionized the way we approach innovation at RBC, empowering students to tackle real-world challenges with creativity, autonomy and cutting-edge technology. The results have been astounding - not only have we seen impactful solutions emerge, but a vibrant community has formed, driving innovation and progress long after the program concludes."
- Daniella Radman, Senior Director, Talent Experience, Technology & Operations

Ready to launch your career and make real impact?

 Apply for the next Amplify Cohort and become part of the innovation engine at RBC.
Apply Now
To learn more about our open roles, visit Tech@RBC