On this page:ÌýCompetition Benefits ´¥ÌýHow It Works ´¥ÌýFrequently Asked QuestionsÌý´¥
This competition encourages ƽÌØÎå²»ÖÐ students, working in teams, to propose new technologically-based ideas/solutions that solve real world problems. This year's pitch competition is taking place on January 30th, 2025 during the John D. Thompson Entrepreneurial Development Seminar. Up to five teams will be selected to compete, each team will have 3 minutes to present their TechIdea pitch to aÌýpanel of judgesÌýfrom the business and entrepreneurial community. Judges will have 3 minutes to ask questions and give feedback.ÌýÌý
Competition Benefits
Cash Prizes - $500, $250, $100 and a bonus $50 audience favorite
Increase your entrepreneurial skills
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1:1 pitch training
from experienced coaches
Networking opportunities once the pitches conclude
Feedback from successful entrepreneurs and business leadersÌý
Develop your pitch and presentation skillsÌý
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How It Works
- Students submit their TechIdea -
- Up to 5ÌýtopÌýideas areÌýselectedÌýand coaching isÌýprovided to help them develop their pitch
- Finalists pitch their idea during the 11thÌýannual John D. Thompson Entrepreneurial Development SeminarÌýon January 30th, 2025
- Top 3 pitches win cash prizes of $500, $250 and $100 plus a bonus $50 prize for audience favourite
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the eligibility?
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TeamÌý
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Open to any ƽÌØÎå²»ÖÐ student team comprised of 2 to 4 membersÌýÌýÌý
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At least one team member is a currently enrolled student, undergraduate or graduate, in a facultyÌýthat is STEM-related at ƽÌØÎå²»ÖÐ.ÌýÌýÌý
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TechIdeaÌý
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If you have already developed your solution and are beyond the idea stage (e.g. already have sales/customer transactions or have raised company funding from sources other than friends and family), then you are not eligible.
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How do I apply?
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Submit your TechIdea by Jan. 19, 2025, 11:59PM ET.
When is the competition taking place?
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The competition will be held during the annual John D. Thompson Entrepreneurial Development Seminar on January 30th, 2025.
What is a technologically based idea?
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It's aÌýservice or product that relates to or involves technology, in other words, the application of scientific or engineering knowledge for practical purposes.Ìý
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There are so many possibilities! A TechIdea could be a new formulation, a novel material, a solution or service or product – anything that involves technology (including but not limited to information technology).ÌýÌý
Past TechIdeas include consumer products, animal care solutions, environmental monitoring, healthcare communication, energy storage, mental health support, eco packaging, dental care, travel optimization and student engagement.ÌýÌýCheck out our previous TechIdea competing teams!Ìý
How are submissions evaluated?
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Degree of environmental, economic and social impactÌý
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Degree of innovation and feasibilityÌý
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Understanding of competitive landscapeÌýÌý
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Technical and business challenges clearly identifiedÌý
How many teams are selected to pitch?ÌýÌý
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Up to 5Ìýteams are selected to participate in the competition.
Is there a prize?
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The top 3 pitches win cash prizes of $500, $250 and $100 plus a bonus $50 prize for audience favourite.Ìý
Is pitch coaching available?
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Yes