Indiana University Southeast (IUS) is gearing up for the inaugural The Next BIG Thing Pitch Contest, scheduled to take place on November 18. Aligning with Global Entrepreneurship Week, this event invites community members and high school students to pitch their innovative ideas to a panel of experts, entrepreneurs, and mentors.
The Next BIG Thing Pitch Contest
The competition allows participants to receive crucial feedback on their concepts while competing for cash prizes and networking opportunities with potential investors and partners. This thrilling contest is designed to promote innovation and collaboration, ultimately contributing to the expansion and evolution of the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Competition Divisions and Prizes
High School Fast Pitch, High School Pitch Tank, Community Fast Pitch, and Community Pitch Tank are the four categories into which the competition is split. The winners will get office space at the NovaParke Innovation & Technology Campus, Maker 13 memberships, IU Southeast scholarships, the Make Your Move Program, and a total of $11,000 in cash prizes. Inspiring creativity and collaboration throughout the community, participants from a variety of backgrounds will showcase their skills and originality. With the assistance and resources provided by the competition organizers, students and aspiring entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to grow their professional networks, improve their project ideas into workable projects, and expand their networks.
Application Process and Judging
Prospective contestants must submit their pitch applications by 5 p.m. on November 3 to secure their spot in the contest. Once applications are assessed, chosen participants will be invited to present their groundbreaking ideas to a panel of respected judges. The competition offers an outstanding opportunity for budding entrepreneurs to obtain valuable feedback, connect with like-minded individuals, and potentially obtain funding for their ventures.
A Platform for Emerging Entrepreneurs and Innovators
The goal of the event is to provide an interactive platform for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators, cultivating talent and originality within the community. By fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere, the event aims to facilitate the exchange of ideas and the creation of inventive solutions to real-world challenges. Participants will not only have the opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals but also establish significant connections with their peers, further bolstering the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Community Impact and Long-term Benefits
The Next BIG Thing Pitch Contest aspires to create lasting positive effects on the regional community by empowering individuals to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. As participants develop their ideas and forge connections with mentors, potential investors, and peers, they contribute to the growth of the community’s economic landscape. Over time, the event seeks to establish a thriving environment for startups and emerging businesses, enabling them to flourish and create job opportunities for the local population.
Furthermore, the contest is expected to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs, fostering a sense of innovation and problem-solving within schools and the broader community. Students participating in the competition can gain invaluable experiences and insights into the world of entrepreneurship while developing essential skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and perseverance.
A Look Towards the Future
The Next BIG Thing Pitch Contest is only the beginning of a journey toward cultivating a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem within the region. By continuously engaging, supporting, and promoting innovation and collaboration, the event aims to pave the way for ongoing opportunities and professional growth for aspiring entrepreneurs, students, and community members. With each iteration of the contest, new ideas will emerge, new connections will be forged, and new businesses will prosper, ultimately contributing to a thriving, innovative, and prosperous community.
FAQs: The Next BIG Thing Pitch Contest
When is The Next BIG Thing Pitch Contest taking place?
The contest is scheduled to take place on November 18 as part of the Global Entrepreneurship Week.
Who can participate in the contest?
Community members and high school students can participate in the contest, presenting their innovative ideas to a panel of experts, entrepreneurs, and mentors.
What are the competition divisions and prizes?
The competition is divided into four categories: High School Pitch Tank, Community Fast Pitch, High School Fast Pitch, and Community Pitch Tank. $11,000 in cash, office space at NovaParke Innovation & Technology Campus, memberships in Maker 13, scholarships from IU Southeast, and the Make Your Move Program are among the prizes.
How do I apply for the pitch contest?
You must submit your pitch application by 5 p.m. on November 3 to secure your spot in the contest. Selected participants will be invited to present their ideas to a panel of judges.
What is the purpose of The Next BIG Thing Pitch Contest?
The contest aims to provide a platform for emerging entrepreneurs and innovators, promoting innovation and collaboration in the community. This event is designed to help participants broaden their networks, enhance their professional abilities, and transform their ideas into feasible projects.
How does the contest impact the community long-term?
The contest aspires to create lasting positive effects by empowering individuals to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and contribute to the growth of the community’s economic landscape. It also seeks to establish a thriving environment for startups and emerging businesses, inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs and fostering innovation and problem-solving skills.
First Reported on: newsandtribune.com
Featured Image Credit: Photo by Filippo Peisino; Pexels; Thank you!
