2017-18 Elon Innovation Challenge to kick-off with idea pitch launch event on Nov. 1

The Nov. 1 Idea Pitch Launch Event will mark the beginning of the 2017-18 Elon Innovation Challenge. 

For undergraduates interested in entrepreneurship, the 2017-18 Elon Innovation Challenge provides an exciting opportunity to engage in the creative process.

Interdisciplinary teams will be tasked with developing a project, start up, idea/concept, product, or service throughout the academic year. No formal presentation or pitch materials are required to participate. All ideas or concepts for products, apps, or services are welcome including those for social ventures and non-profits.

On Wednesday, Nov. 1, students are invited to participate in the Idea Pitch Launch Event, where they will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas or concepts for the Elon Innovation Challenge, form teams and support one another in the spirit of innovation. Attendees interested in joining a team will collaborate to bring the proposed ventures to life throughout the spring semester and will prepare for a final pitch competition in April.

Creating an interdisciplinary experience is a key component of this year’s Elon Innovation Challenge. Students, mentors, and administrators will represent diverse expertise across campus. This integrative approach will promote unique collaborations across campus, and enhance the development of final products.

A diverse cohort of faculty and staff will partner with students to provide mentorship and guidance throughout the process. Mentors represent a range of academic schools, including departments such as engineering, chemistry, computer science, physical therapy, arts administration, communications, and business. Mentors and student teams will meet monthly to help refine concepts and prepare for the final competition in the spring.

By April, each team will present their final projects to a panel of judges in a “Shark Tank”-style competition.  

Karl Sienerth, chair of the Department of Chemistry and Alyssa Martina, director of the Doherty Center for Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship, will serve as the committee co-chairs for this year’s Innovation Challenge.

Please join in the Elon Innovation Challenge’s Idea Pitch Launch Event on Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. in Lakeside Hall. Free food will be served.

Register to Participate or Attend:

If you would like to be a part of the Innovation Challenge, please click here to register.  While walk-ins are welcome, we encourage everyone who is planning on attending the event to register in advance.

For more information, please visit the Elon Innovation Challenge Website, or contact staff at the Doherty Center for Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship at (336) 278-5992