JagStart Student Idea Pitch Competition

JagStart is an “ideation” competition to reward students for their innovative ideas. The emphasis of the competition is on finding answers to real-world problems, through new approaches, products, services, or ventures—both traditional commercial enterprises and non-profit solutions to pressing social and economic challenges.

Finalists will then present their ideas to a panel of judges in an “elevator pitch.” An elevator pitch is a brief (three-minute maximum) pitch, one just about as long as an elevator ride, which presents your ideas in a concise, brief, and persuasive manner. Elevator pitches are continually becoming a more common practice for employers while screening applicants. Practicing and perfecting this skill, therefore, will give you a leg up on the competition.  Even better, you might win one of the cash awards—the 1st Place Prize is $2,500.

• JagStart is open to all students (i.e. undergraduate, graduate, and professional), who are currently enrolled and in good standing, full or part-time, for a degree in any of the Indiana University-Purdue University schools at either the Indianapolis or Columbus campus.
• Students can submit ideas individually or as a team.
• Ideas presented can be in any stage of development, but must be “pre-revenue” ideas (or “pre-operational” for non-profit ideas).
• Pitch presentations must be conducted without props, slides, or other visual aids.
• The pitch competition will be judged by local experts and professionals.

This site lists all of the events and deadlines associated with this year's competition. You can use this site to connect with other students who might be interested in forming an entry team, or to coordinate your work on an entry.

If you have any questions, please contact the JagStart program coordinator, Karen White, kfwhite@iupui.edu.

JAGSTART WEBSITE:  http://crl.iupui.edu/jagstart/index.asp